Metformin is useful for treating type 2 diabetes

Q: My husband takes Actos, metformin and glyburide for type 2 diabetes, Lipitor for cholesterol and Diovan HCT for high blood pressure.

The doctor prescribed vitamin B-12 because my husband is low in this vitamin. Could any of his drugs cause the vitamin B-12 problem?

A: Metformin is useful for treating type 2 diabetes but can lead to vitamin B-12 deficiency. Lack of this vitamin can cause fatigue, peripheral neuropathy (numbness or tingling of hands and feet), trouble walking and confusion.

Lipitor may lead to leg cramps and weakness, while the diuretic HCT in Diovan HCT may interfere with good blood sugar control. Your husband’s doctor may need to evaluate his treatment regimen, given his symptoms.

Q: After reading all the complaints about Ambien, I would like to put in a good word for this sleeping pill. I’ve had trouble sleeping all my life. When I finally fell asleep, I had a hard time waking up. A year ago, my doctor prescribed Ambien. I only need half a pill to give me solid sleep. I wake up easily, feeling refreshed.

A: Like you, many do get a good night’s sleep on Ambien (zolpidem). Others have reported sleepwalking or sleep-driving, which can be dangerous.

Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist and Teresa Graedon is an expert in medical anthropology and nutrition. They can be reached at peoplespharmacy(at)gmail.com.