Metformin Benefits

So I have noticed a change in my skin since being on Met.  I have an olive complexion.  When I was little I remember looking down at my hands and thinking my fingers looked like bumble bees because the skin would be light then at my knuckles it was dark and then faded to light again.  My elbows were always dark.  My underarms were also always dark.  It was embarrassing to hold my arms up.  I had also developed a band on my checst just below my breasts that was dark.  And the other really noticable part was the back of my neck.  It was always very dark.  I kind of had a complex about it all because I thought people would think I was dirty (which I'm not :p). 

I had no idea, but apprently these are very common symptoms in women with PCOS.  It is actually the insuluin resistant part of PCOS.  So natually the Metformin helps.  If you don't know, Metformin is actually an anti-diabetic medicine, but often used for PCOS.  It works by slowing down glucose production by the liver.  The hopes of taking it in PCOS is to restore (or achieve) ovulation. 

Anyway, I have noticed the band area under my breasts is gone!  And my underarms are basically the same shade as my arms!  Also, my elbows, fingers, and neck have improved as well!  I am really happy about all of that!  It is also great that it seems to have got me to O last cycle!

I have been VERY fortunate with very little side effects.  The biggest side effect from taking Met is that it really messes with your gastrointestinal system.  I have heard horrible stories about this.  I am thankful that Dr. C put me on the ER (extended release) version from the start.  That helps by not releasing it all at once into your system.  The gradual release is not as jolting to your body.  Now, all of this is not to say that I have not expereience any of the side effects.  I certainly have.  Not to be too graphic, I have had to run immediately to the restroom on several occasions.  And it could be right after I eat, or several hours after I eat.  I can only compare it to having the flu or food posioning.  Not pleasant.  Most women find that a certain food or too much carbs will set it off.  I haven't been able to pinpoint it for me.  I could eat a certain meal one day and the next time I have it I will have an issue, or have an issue initailly and then not again.  That is frustrating.  If I knew what exactly it was I could easily avoid it.  Overall, I am happy taking Metformin. 

What are your experiences with it?