Question: I was diagnosed with diabetes a year ago. I have started taking Glycomet-SR (500 milligrams), one in the morning and one at night. Are there any side effects with this drug? Also, I am obese and want to lose weight. What is a healthy diet diabetics should follow?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Your drug is a trade name for metformin. Usual doses are about 1,500 milligrams per day, but some get results at 1,000 mg daily dose. Yes, side effects and drug interactions do occur. Common side effects are nausea, appetite loss, fatigue, and dry mouth.
But one of the great features of this medication is that low blood sugars are not usually caused by this medication. In other words, it will control your blood sugar level, but will only bring it into a normal range, and not below (unlike other diabetic drugs).
You must tell your doctors you are taking this medication whenever an intravenous or other arterial exam is to be done, so as dosing can be adjusted or held as needed to protect you from kidney failure. You should read the product warning given to you by your pharmacist, or alternatively read the drug insert accompanying your medication.
The good news is metformin often helps reduce your appetite, and weight loss is often seen in people who take this drug. Your diet should be high in fiber, low in fat with a defined calorie intake — about 1,500 calories a day, give or take 300 calories for height differences and other adjustments, according to your exercise routine and personal metabolism.
© 2026 NewsmaxHealth. All rights reserved.