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Brand: Glucophage, Glumetza, Fortamet, Riomet, Glucophage XR, Metformin Hydrochloride
Biguanides are a class of oral antihyperglycemic drugs primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. They work by decreasing hepatic glucose production, decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. Metformin is the most widely used biguanide and is often the first-line medication for type 2 diabetes. Other biguanides, such as buformin and phenformin, are no longer commonly used due to safety concerns, particularly lactic acidosis.
Used to treat type 2 diabetes by lowering blood glucose levels.
Outcome:
Increased risk of lactic acidosis
Mechanism:
Alcohol can inhibit lactate metabolism.
Outcome:
Increased metformin levels
Mechanism:
Reduced renal clearance.
Outcome:
Potential interference with absorption
Mechanism:
Some vitamins/minerals may chelate metformin.
Most likely new formulation: Extended-release combination therapies with other antidiabetic agents (2025, 70% confidence)
Based on increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes, biguanide prescriptions are projected to increase by 5% in the next 5 years.
Antidiabetic, Biguanide
Biguanide