Metformin

What is it?

Composition

The composition of Metformin includes the active substance - metformin hydrochloride. This is the main component, which provides the main therapeutic effect of the drug. Metformin hydrochloride belongs to the class of biguanides, which are known for their ability to effectively manage blood sugar levels.

• Metformin hydrochloride is an active component that reduces blood glucose levels.
• Excipients may include substances that ensure the stability and integrity of the tablet.
• The tablet may also contain substances to improve the taste and ease of administration.

These components together allow the drug not only to have a therapeutic effect, but also to be as comfortable as possible for patients to use. It is important to note that the choice of composition is also aimed at minimizing side effects and ensuring good tolerability of the drug.

How to use?

Using Metformin correctly is essential to achieve the best therapeutic effect and reduce the risk of side effects. Metformin is usually prescribed to be taken orally and should be taken with food to reduce possible gastrointestinal side effects.

1. Take Metformin at exactly the same time each day to maintain constant blood levels and achieve maximum effectiveness.
2. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If a long time has passed and it is almost time for your next dose, simply continue taking it as usual, avoiding double doses.
3. Be sure to continue taking it even if you feel better, as this reduces the risk of worsening diabetes.

Following these recommendations carefully will help you control your blood sugar levels and avoid sudden fluctuations that can lead to unwanted health consequences.

How does it work?

Metformin works through several key mechanisms that allow it to effectively reduce blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. First of all, the drug reduces glucose production in the liver. This is achieved by affecting the relevant enzymes and processes in liver cells, which helps control basal sugar levels and prevents them from rising sharply.

In addition, Metformin improves the sensitivity of body tissues to insulin. This means that muscles and other cells begin to use insulin more effectively to absorb glucose from the blood. Metformin can also affect the absorption of glucose in the intestine, slowing this process and thus further reducing blood sugar levels. All these mechanisms together provide a significant improvement in the condition of patients suffering from type 2 diabetes.

Indications

Indications for the use of Metformin include a variety of conditions associated with impaired sugar metabolism in the body. The main indication is type 2 diabetes, especially in cases where dietary management and exercise do not produce the desired effect.

• Metformin is prescribed to control hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes.
• It can be used as an independent treatment or in combination with other antidiabetic drugs, such as insulin and other oral medications.
• The drug is also sometimes used to prevent diabetes in people with prediabetes who have risk factors.

These indications make Metformin an important tool in the comprehensive management of diabetes, helping patients achieve sustainable sugar control.

Contraindications

Contraindications to taking Metformin require special attention, as they can significantly affect the safety of its use. Some conditions can make taking the drug undesirable or even dangerous.

• Allergy to any of the substances in Metformin is a clear contraindication to its use.
• Patients with severe heart failure or other serious heart diseases should avoid taking this drug.
• Metformin is not recommended for severe kidney or liver disease, as these organs play a key role in the metabolism and elimination of the drug.
• Conditions associated with oxygen deficiency, such as shock or a recent stroke, also require refusing to take Metformin.
• Age restrictions also matter: Metformin is not recommended for patients over 80 years of age without an assessment of kidney function.

These contraindications should be taken into account by the doctor when prescribing the drug to avoid serious complications.

Side effects

Like any medicine, Metformin can have side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Often these effects are temporary and may improve over time.

• The most common side effects are stomach upsets such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
• A decrease in vitamin B12 levels may occur, especially with long-term use, requiring periodic monitoring and possibly vitamin supplementation.
• In rare cases, lactic acidosis may develop, a condition requiring immediate medical attention characterized by severe weakness and difficulty breathing.

It is important to discuss any changes in your health with your doctor right away to minimize possible risks and adjust your dosage or regimen if necessary.