Metformin has been giving me a serious problem for 2 months. Every time I take it I get really bad pains in my lower back (on the side). I do not know if this is effecting my kidneys or what. Last week I did not take Metformin at all and the pain went away but the sugar went up. Starting tomorrow I will no longer take it. My answer to metformin is a larger dose of Lantus to keep the sugar down. Side effects were, back pain, stomach pains, nausea, bloating, tired, unable to walk, trouble working (cleaning carpets. If you are having similar problems try not taking it for a few days, if the pain goes away...never take this medicine again. It is doing more harm than good and there are other options out there for you. My answer is more insulin. Good luck