Preparing questions in advance can help patients have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about biguanides:

1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of biguanides for me, compared to other treatments for type 2 diabetes?
   
   
2. Do I have any conditions that rule out or raise concerns about use of biguanides? May I take biguanides if I have heart failure? What if I have kidney or liver disease or have abused alcohol?
   
   
3. Which variety of biguanide or combination drug is best for me?
   
   
4. When and how should I take this drug?
   
   
5. What is my dosage? What should I do if I miss a dosage?
   
   
6. Could any of my other medications interact negatively with biguanides?
   
   
7. How will we know if my dosage or schedule needs to be adjusted?
    
8. Can I expect to lose any weight when taking biguanides?
   
   
9. What side effects might I experience from biguanides? Will lactic acidosis or diabetic ketoacidosis be a concern for me? At what point do I need to notify you of side effects?
   
   
10. Should I take supplements of vitamin B12 when using biguanides?
    
    
11. How should my kidney function be monitored, and how often?
    
    
12. Should I perform regular ketone tests when taking biguanides?
    
    
13. How much alcohol, if any, can I safely drink when using biguanides?
    
    
14. Are biguanides safe for children, elders and pregnant women?
    
    
15. Can improvements in diet and exercise habits reduce or eliminate my need for biguanides?
    
    
16. Can biguanides be prescribed for me if I have prediabetes or insulin resistance? Can they be prescribed to nondiabetic women who have polycystic ovarian syndrome?