Metformin

What is it?

Composition

Metformin is the active ingredient in the drug. Its action is associated with the regulation of blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. The composition of metformin used makes it effective and safe for most patients. The drug includes a whole set of excipients that help ensure its stability and targeted action.

• Metformin hydrochloride is the main active component that controls sugar levels.
• Microcrystalline cellulose - used to improve the texture of the tablet.
• Povidone - serves to stabilize the tablet and improve the solubility of the active component.
• Magnesium stearate - used to facilitate the production process of tablets.
• Talc - used as an anti-adhesive agent.

All these components work in combination, providing maximum effectiveness and safety of the drug for users.

How to use?

For best results, metformin should be taken exactly as directed by your doctor. The main rule of taking the drug is to take it with food, which helps minimize possible side effects and improves absorption.

1. Take metformin orally with water during meals to reduce the risk of stomach discomfort.
2. Stick to regular dosing times to help you remember your doses and maintain a stable drug level in your body.
3. Continue taking metformin even if you feel better, as stable use is necessary for long-term disease control.

If you have any questions about taking the drug, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor to get complete information and recommendations.

How does it work?

Metformin belongs to a class of antidiabetic drugs known as biguanides. It works through a complex mechanism: first, it reduces the production of glucose in the liver, which is one of the main sources of blood sugar in patients with diabetes. By reducing the formation of glucose, metformin helps prevent sharp spikes in sugar after meals.

In addition, metformin reduces the absorption of glucose in the intestine, which also contributes to an overall decrease in sugar levels. An important aspect of its action is an increase in the sensitivity of body tissues to insulin, naturally produced by the pancreas. Thus, the body uses insulin more effectively to lower blood sugar. All these effects together make metformin an important tool in the management of type 2 diabetes.

Indications

Metformin is prescribed to patients with type 2 diabetes when diet and physical activity alone do not provide adequate control of blood sugar levels. It may also be recommended to prevent complications associated with diabetes.

• Help in controlling blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes.
• Reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications in patients with diabetes.
• Used as an adjunct to diet and physical activity to achieve better glycemic control.

When used regularly, metformin helps maintain stable sugar levels and minimize the risk of complications.

Contraindications

Metformin is not recommended for patients with certain medical conditions and health features. It is important to discuss your medical history with your doctor before starting to take the medication.

• An allergy to any ingredient in the drug.
• Having congestive heart failure, especially if it requires medication.
• Serious infections that can affect the level of oxygen in the blood.
• Kidney or liver problems, which can increase the risk of side effects.
• Recent heart attack or stroke, or a state of shock.
• Age 80 years or older without an assessment of kidney function.

These conditions can worsen side effects or make metformin less effective.

Side effects

Although metformin is generally well tolerated, some patients may experience side effects. It is important to know about them so that you can monitor your condition while taking the medication.

• Gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
• Decreased appetite or changes in taste perception.
• May cause dizziness, especially if taken with alcohol or specific medications.
• Rare cases of lactic acidosis, which manifest as difficulty breathing and severe weakness.

It is important to always be aware of possible reactions and contact your doctor if symptoms become too severe or cause concern.