Metformin hydrochloride
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| Pronunciation | /mɛtˈfɔːrmᵻn/, met-FAWR-min |
| Trade names | Glucophage, other |
| AHFS/Drugs.com | Monograph |
| MedlinePlus | a696005 |
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| Routes of administration |
by mouth |
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| Bioavailability | 50–60% |
| Protein binding | Minimal |
| Metabolism | Not by liver |
| Biological half-life | 4-8.7 hours |
| Excretion | Urine (90%) |
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| ECHA InfoCard | 100.010.472 |
| Chemical and physical data | |
| Formula | C4H11N5 |
| Molar mass | 129.16364 g/mol |
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Metformin, marketed under the trade name Glucophage among others, is the first-line medication for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, particularly in people who are overweight. It is also used in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome. Limited evidence suggests metformin may prevent the cardiovascular disease and cancer complications of diabetes. It is not associated with weight gain. It is taken by mouth.
Metformin is generally well tolerated. Common side effects include diarrhea, nausea and abdominal pain. It has a low risk of developing low blood sugar.High blood lactic acid level is a concern if the drug is prescribed inappropriately and in overly large doses. It should not be used in those with significant liver disease or kidney problems. While no clear harm comes from use during pregnancy, insulin is generally preferred for gestational diabetes. Metformin is in the biguanide class. It works by decreasing glucose production by the liver and increasing the insulin sensitivity of body tissues.
Metformin was discovered in 1922. French physician Jean Sterne began study in humans in the 1950s. It was introduced as a medication in France in 1957 and the United States in 1995. It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most effective and safe medicines needed in a health system. Metformin is believed to be the most widely used medication for diabetes which is taken by mouth It is available as a generic medication. The wholesale price in the developed world is between 0.21 and 5.55 USD per month as of 2014. In the United States, it costs 5 to 25 USD per month.
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