Metformin + alcohol =

gtbride&groom

So I'm going to be going on a girls weekend trip soon and I just started taking metformin. I don't want my girls knowing that we're trying.  So should I just skip my metformin for a few days or just lay off the alcohol and put up with their questions?  How hard is it to take the medicine after skipping a few days?  Thanks ladies!

xtencornfield

I drink and I'm on metformin.  Not sure what the SE's are supposed to be but I've never had any problems.  I don't drink frequently but on occasion...I really don't think one weekend is going to be a big deal.  As far as skipping a few days, I've had to do this a couple times because of HSG's and it's not a problem for me.

gringa78

I drink on Metformin too, but I find I can only have 2-3 drinks before it starts turning my stomach.

 I tried to play flip cup last weekend and it didn't go so well.

MrsWood1228

I would not stop taking your meds..... there must be a reason you are on them. I have had partial glasses of wine while on it - but never more.

Here's some info for you to consider before your weekend: 

https://diabetes.emedtv.com/metformin/metformin-and-alcohol.html

Taking metformin increases your chance of developing a life-threatening condition called lactic acidosis (see Metformin and Lactic Acidosis). Drinking large amounts of alcohol also increases your risk for lactic acidosis, and combining metformin and large amounts of alcohol can be dangerous (due to the risk of lactic acidosis). As a result, drinking large amounts of alcohol (either on a daily basis or as "binge drinking") is not recommended while taking metformin.

Small amounts of alcohol should not be a problem for most people taking metformin. However, because other medical conditions may also increase your risk of lactic acidosis (including kidney or liver problems), there may be some situations where avoiding alcohol entirely might be a good idea.

Metformin and Alcohol: Suggestions

It is usually not necessary to completely avoid alcohol while taking metformin. However, drinking large amounts of alcohol while taking metformin is not recommended. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider if it would be okay to drink alcohol while taking this drug. Your healthcare provider understands your particular situation and is in the best position to factor in all of the variables (including other medical conditions or other medications you may be taking) before giving recommendations about metformin and alcohol.