Pregnancy & Metformin
Metformin, also known as Glucophage, is commonly prescribed to women who are having difficulty ovulating due to polycystic ovarian syndrome. Though it can provide various benefits during pregnancy, there are also side effects associated with taking metformin while pregnant.
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Function
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Metformin is used to lower blood sugar levels in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and also insulin resistance, which is common in women suffering from PCOS. It can be taken orally and can be found in combination with other medications.
Benefits
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According to a study included in the National Library of Medicine National Institute of Health, women who use metformin for the treatment of PCOS have a reduced risk of first trimester spontaneous abortion once they conceive. In addition, women who continue to take the medication while pregnant have a reduced risk of gestational diabetes.
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Risks
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Pregnant women taking metformin are at increased risk for lactic acidosis, which is a buildup of lactic acid in the blood. The condition is rare but can be fatal and can be recognized by extreme weakness, low body temperature, rapid breathing, slow or irregular heartbeat and light-headedness.
Side Effects
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Side effects of metformin are typically noticed within the first few weeks of taking the medication and include abdominal discomfort, gas, bloating, diarrhea, indigestion, nausea, vomiting and headache.
Warning
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Because metformin is processed by the kidneys, women should not take metaformin if suffering from kidney disease or if the kidneys have been impaired in any way. If a woman is taking metformin regularly for treatment of diabetes or PCOS and becomes pregnant, she should not stop taking the medication unless directed to do so by a physician.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Daniel Lobo
