It is the first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes to ensure healthier living.

Medical uses

It reduces insulin resistance and glucotoxicity in type 2 diabetes. It is safe and efficacious in reducing plasma glucose. It also lowers both basal and postprandial plasma glucose. It is used commonly in the case of type 2 – diabetes mellitus, pre-diabetes, postprandial hyperglycemia, Poly Cystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD), Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM).

Mechanism of action

Metformin’s mechanisms of action are unique from other classes of oral antihyperglycemic drugs. Metformin decreases blood glucose levels by decreasing hepatic glucose production (gluconeogenesis), decreasing the intestinal absorption of glucose, and increasing insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. It is well established that metformin inhibits mitochondrial complex I activity, and it has since been generally postulated that its potent antidiabetic effects occur through this mechanism. The above processes lead to a decrease in blood glucose, managing type II diabetes, and exerting positive effects on glycemic control.