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Metformin gastrointestinal adverse effects — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyEndocrine TherapeuticsMetformin gastrointestinal adverse effectsGPhC CRA

A 59-year-old man starts metformin 500 mg twice daily for type 2 diabetes and reports diarrhoea after three days. He asks whether the medicine is unsuitable. What would you advise the patient?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: B — Advise taking with meals and discuss gradual titration or modified-release if persistent

Metformin commonly causes gastrointestinal adverse effects when started or titrated. Taking with food and gradual titration can improve tolerability, and modified-release may help some patients. Persistent or severe symptoms should be reviewed.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS