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After Your Diagnostic Procedure … For Patients Taking Metformin

Click to listen to this page using ReadPleasePatients taking Metformin need to take additional precautions after their procedure. It is possible for dye injected during the procedure to affect the function of your kidneys.

 

Instructions:


  1. Do not take your Metformin for three days starting on the day of the procedure.
     
  2. Watch your voiding pattern for three days. If your voiding pattern changes from the usual routine that is normal for you, contact your family physician.
     
  3. Monitor your blood glucose level four times a day until it returns to normal. It may be higher than your normal because of the procedure and stress you may have experienced. If your blood glucose reading is > 15 seek medical advice right away.
     
  4. Increase your intake of non-carbohydrate containing fluids (water, tea, coffee, diet soft drinks, artificially sweetened crystal drinks) to assist in flushing your system of the dye that has been injected during the procedure.
     
  5. Your physician will arrange to have a blood test done in three days after your procedure to assess your kidney function. Based on the results of that test he/she will instruct you when to start your Metformin.


Medical Follow Up


  • If you have any concerns call your Family Doctor, Specialist, or the Emergency Department.
     
  • You may also contact Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 at any time for free access to a registered nurse to answer any questions that you may have.