Know Your Meds for Busy People Episode 1: Metformin (Diabetes)
Know Your Meds for Busy People
Episode 1: Metformin
Metformin is a popular drug for diabetes patients. It is a widely used medication for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is classified as a biguanide and works by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and improving the body's response to insulin. Metformin is sold under various brand names such as Glucophage, Fortamet, and Riomet.
The drug was first synthesized in 1922 and was introduced for clinical use in the 1950s. The name "metformin" comes from its chemical structure, which contains a methyl group attached to a biguanide group.
Metformin is available in tablet form and is usually taken twice a day with meals. The starting dose is typically 500 mg, but this can be increased up to 2,000 mg per day depending on the patient's needs.
In addition to its use in diabetes, metformin has also been studied for its potential benefits in other conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and metabolic syndrome. It has been shown to improve insulin resistance, reduce inflammation, and even have anti-cancer properties.
Like all medications, metformin does have potential side effects. The most common side effect is gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms can often be managed by starting with a low dose and gradually increasing as tolerated.
Other potential side effects include lactic acidosis (a rare but serious condition), vitamin B12 deficiency, and a rare but potentially life-threatening skin reaction called Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.
Overall, metformin is a highly effective and safe medication for the management of type 2 diabetes. It is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for this condition and has been extensively studied in clinical trials.
Sources:
American Diabetes Association. Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2022. Diabetes Care. 2022 Jan; 45(Suppl 1): S3-S21.
Bailey CJ, Turner RC. Metformin. N Engl J Med. 1996 Feb 29;334(9):574-9.
Nathan DM, Buse JB, Davidson MB, et al. Medical management of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes: a consensus algorithm for the initiation and adjustment of therapy: a consensus statement of the American Diabetes Association and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2009 Jan;32(1):193-203.
Rena G, Hardie DG, Pearson ER. The mechanisms of action of metformin. Diabetologia. 2017 May;60(9):1577-1585.
Scheen AJ. Metformin and polycystic ovary syndrome. Ann Endocrinol (Paris). 2010 Feb;71 Suppl 1:S19-25.
#KnowYourMeds #LisaPharmacist #medicine
Lisa Chua is a registered pharmacist for 20 years. You may reach out to her via lmchua35@gmail.com. Visit her Youtube Channel for the videos for the "Know Your Meds for Busy People".
