As your hometown pharmacist, I want to make sure you're getting the most out of your meds without any pesky side effects.

Now, I know some of you have been taking metformin for a while now, and did you know that up to 1 in 14 of you might be at risk for a vitamin B12 deficiency? Yikes! Don't worry though, I've got you covered.

B12 deficiency can cause all sorts of problems like anemia and neuropathy, but we don't want to go around testing everyone. Instead, let's keep it simple. If you're a vegetarian,  use medications like Prilosec regularly, or elderly, or if you start feeling some numbness or tingling, let's check those B12 levels every 2 to 3 years.

Just because you might have a B12 deficiency, it doesn't mean you have to stop taking your metformin. The benefits of your medicine are worth it! If you are taking metformin as part of your diabetes treatment plan, check with a member of your healthcare team to determine if oral or sublingual over-the-counter supplements are right for you! A dose of 1000 to 2000 mcg/day are just as effective as the injectable kind for mild to moderate cases. No need to break the bank with that fancy nasal spray that costs over $400 a month.