Metformin: The First-Line Wonder Drug for Type 2 Diabetes
Published: May 10, 2024
Metformin is often the first medication prescribed for type 2 diabetes. Understanding how it works and its benefits can help you manage your condition more effectively.
Contents
How Metformin Works
Metformin helps control blood sugar in several ways. It reduces the amount of glucose your liver produces, improves how your body responds to insulin, and decreases the absorption of carbohydrates from your digestive tract.
Benefits Beyond Blood Sugar Control
Metformin offers advantages beyond lowering blood sugar. It may help with weight loss, reduce the risk of heart disease, and has a low risk of causing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Some studies even suggest it might have anti-cancer properties.
Potential Side Effects
While generally well-tolerated, metformin can cause side effects in some people. The most common are digestive issues like nausea and diarrhea. These often improve over time or with dosage adjustments. Serious side effects are rare but can include lactic acidosis in people with kidney problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it often leads to modest weight loss.
It starts working within days, but full effects take weeks.
Moderate alcohol use is generally safe, but excessive drinking increases risks.
Many people do, but some may eventually manage with lifestyle changes alone.
Key Takeaways
Metformin is a powerful tool in diabetes management, offering blood sugar control and additional health benefits for many patients.
Curious if metformin is right for you? Schedule a consultation with Doctronic to discuss your diabetes management options.Related Articles
References
American Diabetes Association. Pharmacologic Approaches to Glycemic Treatment: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2021. Diabetes Care. 2021;44(Suppl 1):S111-S124.
Sanchez-Rangel E, Inzucchi SE. Metformin: clinical use in type 2 diabetes. Diabetologia. 2017;60(9):1586-1593.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.