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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Leg Cramping In A Type 2 Diabetic After Taking Metformin?

Hi. I have type 2 diabetes & just went back on Metformin. I got into the pool yesterday & as soon as my feet hit the water they started to cramp. The cramping started going up my shin & on the side of my leg. Today, trying to stir potato salad, my hands cramped up. Is it possible it s the Metformin?
Thu, 7 Aug 2014
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Metformin has known side effect of muscle cramps. This occurs because of lactic acidosis. To confirm you got to go through few tests like blood sugar, HbIc;lactic acid concentration ;sr electrolyte; blood ph, Kidney function test specially creatinin and for ketoacidosis.With above tests your doctor will be in a position to decide if change or continue with metformin. Any Cardiac conditions should also be ruled out .
Peripheral neuropapthy also needs to be ruled out.You can start with antioxidants and methylcobal preparations if not added by your doctor though I am sure must have been already added to your prescription.
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  Dr. Divakara's  Response
HI

Thanks for posting your query .

Metformin is considered to be one of the safest medication in the treatment of Diabetes . I personally feel it is not due to Metformin .

There are many causes of Cramping . From simple causes like Dehydration , low potassium levels in blood, low calcium levels to some serious problems like nerve problems , spinal cord problems .

Kindly consult your physician for the evaluation of cause of your cramps .

I advise you to continue using Metformin.
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What Causes Leg Cramping In A Type 2 Diabetic After Taking Metformin?

Metformin has known side effect of muscle cramps. This occurs because of lactic acidosis. To confirm you got to go through few tests like blood sugar, HbIc;lactic acid concentration ;sr electrolyte; blood ph, Kidney function test specially creatinin and for ketoacidosis.With above tests your doctor will be in a position to decide if change or continue with metformin. Any Cardiac conditions should also be ruled out . Peripheral neuropapthy also needs to be ruled out.You can start with antioxidants and methylcobal preparations if not added by your doctor though I am sure must have been already added to your prescription.