Diabetes and Metformin

Metformin is a common form of diabetes treatment. Created by Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Metformin is approved in the US (since 1994) and the UK as a treatment for type 2 diabetes.

Click here to read our Diabetes and Metformin FAQs including information on lactic acidosis.

Metformin is sold both under brand names, and also as a generic drug. Metformin is available both in combination with other drugs, or as a single treatment (a monotherapy.)

Metformin is a type 2 diabetic drug, and helps diabetics to respond normally to insulin. Like most diabetic drugs, the ultimate goals of Metformin are to lower blood sugar to a normal level and maintain this level. Metformin can be used in conjunction with other diabetic drugs, and diabetics should also use diet and exercise to help control their condition.

Metformin helps the body to control blood sugar in several ways. The drug helps type 2 diabetics respond better to their own insulin, lower the amount of sugar created by the liver, and decreasing the amount of sugar absorbed by the intestines.

When taken alone, Metformin is unlikely to cause hypoglycaemia or weight gain, but when taken in conjunction with insulin or a sulfonylurea both of these side effects are more likely.

More Information

• Diabetes and Metformin FAQs
• Talk about Metformin in the Diabetes Forum
• MedlinePlus on Metformin (American site)
• WikiPedia on Metformin