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HBA1C level, DIABETES runs in family. Start METFORMIN?

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I am a 190lb, 5' 10", 28 year old white male (BMI 27.3). I recently had a (wellness) blood test and results came back with a 5.7 A1C. Three years ago it was 5.5. Diabetes does run on my father's side of the family. My family doctor suggested the usual diet and exercise. Since that visit two months ago, I have been eating better (lots more vegetables) and exercising 4-5 days a week. I am not trying to lose weight (not counting calories anyway) but have lost five pounds so far. My dad is a doctor and very strongly suggests I start taking Metformin. I am not opposed to taking the drug if it prevents or delays diabetes, but the research I have read says combining Metformin with exercise is no more effective than exercise alone. I would like a second opinion from a doctor who specializes in the treatment of prediabetes/diabetes and is more up to date on the latest research. And of course I am open to any other suggestions, such as paying a visit to a local specialist or going on a special diet. Thank you.

Category: Endocrinologist

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Category: Diabetologist
 32 Doctors Online

Hello,
Thank you for your query at DoctorSpring.com
You are right that Metformin with Diet and Exercise is as good as Exercise alone. However, thats in Trial settings over a short term.
As you have already tried that and have family risk of DM and rising HbA1c, You will do well with stricter diet restriction and exercise with targetted weight loss to BMI around 20 and then if still the HbA1c continues to be above 5.7, then Metformin may be a good option to prevent further progression.
Feel free to discuss further,
Regards.


Dr. J Muthukrishnan
Category: Diabetologist
Experience: 
Fellowships/Training: 
1. 10th Asia-Pacific Pediatric Endocrine Society  Fellows meeting, Seoul, Korea, Oct 2008
2. Eighth ICMR Course on Genetics and Genetic Counseling – Jul 2008 – SGPGI, Lucknow
3. Annual Certificate Course on Endocrinological Laboratory Techniques at National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR) Hyderabad,India, ( Aug-Sep 2006) 
Fellowship: Endocrinology, Diplomate of National Board, National Academy of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 2008, Medwin Hospital, Hyderabad
Senior Residency: Diplomate of National Board (General Medicine), National Academy of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, 2002
Residency: MD, General Medicine, 1997-2000, Armed Forces Medical College, 2nd position in University
Medical School: MBBS, Armed Forces Medical College, 1992
Dr. J Muthukrishnan and 4 other Medical Specialists are ready to help you

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