Patient was educated regarding precautions to be exercised for using biguanides as follows: Keeping a track of frequency of episodes of low blood sugars, despite eating regularly, can help your physician revise your dose on the medication. Also, notify your doctor, if the blood sugar continues to be high, despite taking the medication as recommended, so that, your medication dose could be revised. Observe compliance with any regular lab work ordered, such as, HbA1c. As [...]

Patient was educated regarding precautions to be exercised for using biguanides as follows: Take weight reading at least twice a week and maintain a log of every reading for comparative feedback. Maintain an ideal weight for your height. Maintain strict compliance with intake of the medication as ordered, with regards to dosage and frequency, to derive the benefit of the medication. Do not change the dose on this medication without consulting your doctor. Take a [...]

Patient was educated regarding precautions to be exercised for using biguanides as follows Take the medication at the same time every day, to avoid forgetting the medication. Maintain good regular eating habits. Do not skip your meals. Be aware of signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, such as, dizziness, lightheadedness, sweating, and hunger, to avoid any episodes of altered levels of consciousness and accidental falls. One should stay away from activities, such as, driving and operating [...]

Patient was educated on contraindications for using biguanides as follows: Biguanides are usually not metabolized in the body and for the significant part are excreted unchanged by the kidneys. Individuals with renal disease cannot excrete these medications normally. In such patients with compromised renal function, these medications can stay active in circulation for longer time and can be toxic. So, these medications should be used with caution in individuals with compromised renal function. Avoid using [...]

Patient was educated on side effects of using biguanides as follows: Stomach upset Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, metallic taste in the mouth, and feeling sick to stomach are the most common side effects of using biguanides. Metabolic acidosis Metabolic acidosis secondary to increased lactic acid production is a rare, but a dangerous side effect of using biguanides. Be aware of symptoms of metabolic acidosis, such as, rapid breath and heart rate, confusion, and stomach upset with [...]