Metformin

Classification

Biguanide

Mechanism

Metformin decreases hepatic glucose production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues.

Uses

First-line therapy for type 2 diabetes mellitus; also used off-label for prediabetes and PCOS.

Safety

Lactic acidosis is a rare but serious risk, especially with renal impairment. Avoid in severe renal disease. GI upset is common; usually transient.

Tags

Sources

• https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/
• https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/