Metformin is a common medication prescribed to people with type 2 diabetes, as it helps reduce glucose levels in the body. Understanding how it works and what effects it can have on your body is important for anyone who takes this medicine.
In this blog post, we explore what metformin is, how it works, its effects on diabetes, and any side effects that may occur when taking the medication. We’ll also provide a summary after exploring each topic in more detail.
Introduction
Metformin is a widely- used medication for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but many people are still unfamiliar with its use and potential side effects. In this blog post, I'll provide an overview of what metformin is, how it works, what benefits and risks may be associated with taking it, and finally offer some tips for managing your diabetes while on this medicine.
What Is Metformin?
Metformin is an oral medication that is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, a condition in which the body cannot properly use the insulin it produces. It works by decreasing the amount of glucose that is absorbed from food and directs the body to use stored fat as energy. Metformin also helps reduce elevated blood sugar levels, improves the body's sensitivity to insulin, and reduces cholesterol.
In addition, metformin can help with weight loss as it slows down digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in food. With daily use, metformin can help control type 2 diabetes symptoms and even prevent long-term complications associated with diabetes such as blindness, kidney failure, nerve damage, heart problems, stroke, and amputations.
How Does Metformin Work?
Metformin is a medication commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes that helps to lower blood sugar levels. It works by decreasing the amount of glucose produced in the liver and absorbed from the intestines, as well as increasing sensitivity to insulin in muscle tissues.
In addition, it helps reduce hunger and increases feelings of fullness after meals, which can help with weight loss. Metformin is generally taken twice daily and should be taken with food or immediately after eating a meal for best results.
Metformin And Diabetes
Popular medication commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes is Metformin. It helps the body use insulin more effectively and decreases the production of glucose by the liver. This medication works by decreasing glucose release from the liver, increasing sensitivity to insulin, and aiding in weight loss. Metformin also reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is associated with type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, it helps lower bad cholesterol levels while raising good cholesterol levels and can reduce inflammation associated with diabetes. Although metformin has been found to be a safe and effective medication for treating type 2 diabetes, it is important that patients follow their doctor’s instructions on how often to take this medication and what doses are appropriate for them.
Side Effects Of Metformin
Metformin is generally safe and well-tolerated, with some side effects that can occur. The most common side effect is stomach discomfort, such as gas, bloating, nausea, and diarrhea. Other possible side effects include headache, weakness, muscle pain, and a metallic taste in the mouth. Metformin can also cause your body to absorb less vitamin B12 than normal.
If you experience any of these symptoms while using metformin, contact your doctor immediately. In rare cases, metformin can also cause lactic acidosis, a serious condition where too much lactic acid builds up in the bloodstream. Symptoms include extreme fatigue and difficulty breathing.
Summary
Metformin is an important diabetes medication that helps regulate blood glucose levels. It works by reducing the amount of sugar released by the liver and increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin. Metformin is often prescribed to adults with type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, and gestational diabetes.
Side effects may include gastrointestinal discomfort, low blood sugar, or lactic acidosis in certain high-risk patients. In conclusion, metformin can be a useful addition to a diabetic patient's healthcare regimen when used as instructed by their doctor.
