A patient who began taking metformin one week ago is complaining of diarrhea and GI discomfort. The nurse reassures the patient by stating which fact about metformin?

Explanation

•Metformin is a biguanide used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. It decreases glucose production in the liver and glucose absorption in the GI tract. It also improves insulin sensitivity.

•Metformin often causes GI upset, but these side effects usually resolve within 2 weeks.

•Incorrect: The other three options are not reassuring to the patient.

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