Question: I was just diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. My doctor put me on metformin. Will that cure my diabetes, or will I have to take it from now on?

Dr. Hibberd's answer:

Yes, you will probably be recommended to stay on metformin for as long as you have Type 2 diabetes. It is commonly used indefinitely to control the metabolic disorder.

Type 2 diabetes can be controlled and sometimes even cured by weight management, and if this is done effectively, some patients may eventually be able to give up metformin after losing weight. Most patients choose to remain on metformin as it has an appetite-suppressant quality, in addition to regulating glucose metabolism.

Your HbA1C — a measure of your glucose level — will guide you and your doctor in your treatment. Don’t forget to have your urine checked for protein and micro-albumen levels, your eyes exmained for retinopathy, and your cholesterol managed properly. It’s also a good idea to have at least annual foot evaluations for any signs of neuropathy.

The good news is diabetes is a very manageable condition and, fortunately, side effects from metformin are actually quite uncommon.