Metformin

What is metformin? Metformin, also known as metformin hydrochloride, is an oral antihyperglycemic drug used in managing people with type 2 diabetes. More specifically, metformin improves glucose tolerance in people with type 2 diabetes and results in lower postprandial and basal glucose levels in the plasma. Metformin is thought to achieve this by decreasing the absorption of glucose and production of glucose by the liver and improving insulin sensitivity. Insulin secretion during metformin therapy is generally unchanged. Metformin has a different mechanism of action than glipizide and the two are sometimes prescribed together. Metformin is also prescribed with glimepiride and is thought to work synergistically with glyburide.

Metformin can cause side effects in susceptible people who use the medication. For example, metformin can cause fatigue, nausea, vomiting, weakness, muscle pain stomach pain, shortness of breath, a slow heartbeat and dizziness. Some people will also experience hypersensitivity or an allergic reaction to metformin when using it and should avoid metformin in these circumstances. A rare, but serious, side effect that can result from metformin use is lactic acidosis. People with kidney disease should not use metformin unless instructed by their doctor or medical provider. People should avoid drinking alcohol while using metformin. All people using metformin should discuss its use and possible side effects with their pharmacist and a licensed medical provider prior to use.

Metformin is available as a generic medication and under brand names such as Glucophage. Compared to many other medications, metformin is very affordable with generic metformin costing under ten cents per pill at many pharmacies. Glucophage is also quite affordable with pills costing under fifteen cents per pill. Many insurance plans also cover the cost of metformin medication. Generic metformin and Glucophage are prescription medications and, as a result, are not available over-the-counter (OTC). In some cases, metformin coupons may also be available to reduce the cost of metformin even more. Metformin should be stored at 20° to 25° C. Metformin is also available in combination with another medication, Januvia in a combination medication known as Janumet.

Metformin hydrochloride is a white to off-white crystalline compound that is freely soluble in water. Glucophage, a brand version of metformin is produced in tablets that contain 500 mg, 850 mg and 1000 mg of metformin hydrochloride with additional inactive ingredients such as povidone and magnesium stearate. The bioavailability of Glucophage after oral administration while fasting is approximately 50%. Metformin is largely excreted in the urine and demonstrates a plasma elimination half-life of approximately six hours and a blood elimination half-life of roughly 17 hours. After oral administration of metformin, approximately 90% of the drug that was absorbed in excreted in the urine. Because it is primarily excreted in the urine, the half-life of metformin is usually prolonged in the setting of impaired kidney function.

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Given the evolving nature of medicine and science, this information might not be accurate and should not be construed as medical advice or diagnosis / treatment recommendations. Please consult a licensed medical provider if you have additional questions.