Metformin is one of the most widely prescribed medications for managing type 2 diabetes. This drug acts as an antihyperglycemic agent, helping to regulate blood sugar levels in individuals with this condition.

In this article, you will discover how metformin works to manage diabetes and how to take it properly to ensure safety and effectiveness.

What is Metformin?

Metformin has been a go-to medication for diabetes treatment for many years. It contains a compound called guanidine, which plays a key role in lowering blood sugar levels.

Despite some concerns about potential side effects, metformin continues to be a preferred medication for people with type 2 diabetes who struggle to control their blood sugar through diet and exercise alone.

How Metformin Works

Metformin reduces blood glucose levels through several key mechanisms, including:

Lowering Glucose Production in the Liver

One of the primary actions of metformin is its ability to decrease glucose production in the liver. In individuals with type 2 diabetes, the liver often produces excessive glucose. Metformin works by inhibiting gluconeogenesis, which is the process by which the liver produces glucose from non-carbohydrate sources.

Improving Insulin Sensitivity

Metformin helps enhance the body’s sensitivity to insulin, particularly in the skeletal muscles. This allows the body to absorb more glucose and use it for energy, which in turn helps reduce blood sugar levels. By improving insulin function, metformin supports the effective use of glucose by the body's cells.

Reducing Glucose Absorption in the Intestines

In addition to its effects on the liver and insulin sensitivity, metformin also reduces the amount of glucose absorbed from food in the intestines. This mechanism helps prevent spikes in blood sugar levels after meals, contributing to better long-term blood glucose management.

Tips for Taking Metformin Safely

Although metformin is generally considered safe and effective, it can cause some digestive issues, including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. These side effects are usually temporary and can be minimized by taking the medication with food.

In rare instances, metformin can lead to a condition called lactic acidosis, where lactic acid builds up in the blood, potentially causing harm to the kidneys.

To minimize the risk of adverse effects, here are some helpful guidelines for taking metformin:

• Take metformin with meals to reduce digestive side effects.

• Start with a low dose to allow the body to adjust to the medication.

• If digestive issues persist, inform your doctor, who may prescribe an extended-release version of metformin, which is gentler on the digestive system.

• Avoid alcohol consumption while using metformin, as it can increase the risk of side effects.

• Have regular kidney function tests to ensure the drug is safe for you.

Before starting metformin, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the correct dosage for your condition.

If you have further questions about how metformin works or need more information on its use, you can also consult a doctor via the consultation feature on the Ai Care app, which is available for download on both the App Store and Play Store.

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