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Biguanides for Type 2 Diabetes
The action of biguanides in treating type 2 diabetes is not completely understood. They lower blood sugar by:
- Decreasing the amount of sugar produced by the liver. This is the primary action of these medicines.
- Increasing the amount of sugar absorbed by muscle cells and decreasing the body's insulin resistance.
Metformin does not cause the pancreas to produce more insulin. And when taken alone, it should not cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or weight gain. Some people taking metformin may lose weight.
Metformin may lower the amount of fat (triglycerides) in the bloodstream, which may reduce the risk of heart disease. It also has been shown to reduce certain abnormal clotting factors and markers of inflammation that can lead to hardening of the arteries.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: June 9, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine Matthew I. Kim, MD - Endocrinology | |
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