There is such a thing as slow-release Metformin, isn't there? Or have I imagined it?

[BlackAmericanoNoSugar]

I asked for my prescription to be changed to slow-release but when I picked it up it was regular and when I asked the pharmacist she had never heard of a slow release version.

Yes, there is a slow release form. You're not imagining it. It is more expensive and I think not allowed to be prescribed in some areas but it is supposed to reduce side effects.

Yes it does exist - Glucophage SR

I pay for my prescriptions so cost isn't the issue. I suspect it's just not available in Ireland, which is a pain in the neck as I've been having quite a lot of trouble with it lately.

Switch to a low carb diet and you can probably ditch the metformin totally. Have a read of the forums on diabetes.co.uk

was just typing out a response about prescriptions and costs then see you are in Ireland. I take it there are no free scripts for diabetics there either (unless you're not on it for diabetes)

There is free drugs for some chronic conditions, but I haven't sorted out the paperwork yet.