Metformin is a widely used drug with a wide range of applications. For instance, if you have Type 2 diabetes, this is probably the first prescription your doctor will recommend to help you manage your blood sugar. Metformin may also be suggested if you have prediabetes and lifestyle modifications like exercise haven’t been effective in controlling your blood sugar. Metformin is being researched for applications besides diabetes, such as cancer prevention and delaying the effects of aging.
What is the Purpose of Metformin?
There are various types of metformin. It aids persons with Type 2 diabetes who are 10 years of age and older in controlling blood sugar levels as an oral solution and an immediate-release tablet. Also available, but only for adults, is an extended-release formulation that is FDA-approved for the same use.
Other blood sugar-lowering drugs, such as Jentadueto (linagliptin/metformin) and Invokamet (canagliflozin/metformin), are also available in conjunction with metformin.
Metformin is prescribed for a variety of different medical disorders in addition to diabetes. All of them are off-label usage, which implies the FDA has not endorsed them.
How is Diabetes Treated with Metformin?
Metformin aids in lowering both fasting and post-meal blood sugar levels. These three are the principal ways it accomplishes this:
- The body becomes more insulin-sensitive as a result. Your body produces the hormone insulin, which transports sugar from your blood to your cells and provides them with the energy they require to function. Cells don’t react as well to insulin when there is an excess of sugar in the blood, which leads to further accumulation of sugar in the blood. Insulin resistance is a condition that can result in diabetes. Because metformin reduces insulin resistance, cells can absorb and utilize sugar more efficiently.
- Absorption of sugar is decreased. Your diet is a significant way that sugar enters your body. Sugar and other nutrients are absorbed into your bloodstream when food reaches your intestines. Less sugar enters your bloodstream as a result of metformin’s ability to reduce the amount of sugar that is absorbed by your intestines.
- Reduced sugar production results. You consume meals that contain sugar, but did you know that your body also makes sugar on its own? The liver is where most of this occurs. The liver produces less sugar after using metformin.
How Much Does Metformin Reduce Blood Glucose Levels?
According to studies, metformin by itself can reduce hemoglobin A1C (AIC) by an average of 1%. You can get an idea of your average blood sugar levels over a three-month period by measuring your A1C through a blood test. An A1C of less than 7% is the target for the majority of diabetes sufferers.
Your doctor may advise adding other medications that can lower blood sugar if you’re currently taking metformin but aren’t exactly where you want to be.
What are Metformin’s Typical Adverse Effects?
Metformin’s adverse effects, which typically involve stomach discomfort, are quite minor when compared to those of other diabetes treatments. These consist of:
- Gas
- Uneasy stomach
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Cramping
These negative consequences can be minimized by:
- Metformin dosage should be progressively increased after starting low. This provides time for your body to adjust to the new medicine.
- Eating when taking metformin. You might feel less queasy or nauseous as a result.
- Your body gradually releases metformin ER throughout it. Compared to taking metformin which is intended for immediate release (IR), this may be gentler for your digestive system.
What Distinguishes Metformin from Other Diabetes Medications?
In contrast to some other diabetic medications, metformin does not raise the amount of insulin your body produces. A drug that increases insulin production may be required if your body doesn’t produce enough of it. However, taking this kind of medication increases your risk of hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. When used alone, metformin does not significantly increase your risk of low blood sugar.
Another reason metformin differs from other diabetic medications is that it typically prevents weight gain, unlike other diabetes medications. In fact, the possibility that metformin may aid in weight loss is one of the reasons why many medical professionals favor it. Losing weight is frequently advised to treat diabetes and maintain stable blood sugar levels.
What Other Uses are Being Researched for Metformin?
Metformin not only helps diabetics control blood sugar, but studies suggest it may also be good for the heart. And a few studies have found a connection between taking metformin and a reduced chance of developing cancer.
The general public’s potential benefits of metformin are another area of research focus. This is due to the possibility that metformin may slow the effects of aging raised by animal research. To establish any anti-aging advantages, sizable human clinical trials are currently being prepared.
Who Should Avoid Using Metformin?
There are some circumstances in which metformin ought to be avoided. You shouldn’t use metformin if you have:
- Diabetes type 1
- Metformin allergy symptoms
- Specific liver issues
- Diabetes-related ketoacidosis (a blood acid accumulation)
If you’re trying to decide whether metformin is the best medication for you, make sure to consult your doctor
What Other Hazards can Metformin use cause?
here are some other hazards that can be caused by metformin use:
- Lactic acidosis: This is a rare but serious condition that can occur when too much lactic acid builds up in the blood. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and muscle pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.
- Hypoglycemia: This is a condition that occurs when blood sugar levels fall too low. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include sweating, shakiness, dizziness, confusion, and headache. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should eat or drink something sugary right away.
- Liver problems: Metformin can rarely cause liver problems. Symptoms of liver problems include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop taking metformin and see your doctor right away.
- Kidney problems: Metformin can also rarely cause kidney problems. Symptoms of kidney problems include decreased urine output, swelling in the feet or ankles, and high blood pressure. If you have any of these symptoms, you should tell your doctor.
It is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of metformin before starting treatment. Metformin is a safe and effective medication for many people with diabetes, but it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and hazards.
Here are some additional tips for staying safe while taking metformin:
- Take metformin exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not take more metformin than prescribed.
- Do not take metformin if you have kidney or liver problems.
- Talk to your doctor before taking metformin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly while taking metformin.
- Report any side effects to your doctor right away.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Metformin plays a pivotal role in the management of diabetes, specifically type 2 diabetes. As a widely prescribed medication, it serves a vital purpose in helping individuals maintain healthy blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.
The primary function of Metformin is to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the production of glucose in the liver. By doing so, it effectively lowers blood sugar levels and helps control hyperglycemia. Additionally, Metformin aids in weight management, as it can contribute to modest weight loss in individuals with diabetes.
It is important to note that Metformin is not a standalone treatment for diabetes. It is often prescribed alongside other lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet and regular physical activity. Combining these interventions can lead to better glucose control and overall diabetes management.
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