Biguanides

Biguanides are a class of oral medications primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes. They enhance the body’s reaction to insulin, helping control blood glucose levels. The most well-known biguanide is metformin, which remains the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes due to its effectiveness, safety, and low cost.

Mechanism of Action

Biguanides exert their effects mainly by:

  1. Decreasing hepatic glucose production: They reduce the amount of glucose the liver produces, which significantly contributes to high blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes.
  2. Increasing insulin sensitivity: Biguanides enhance the body’s sensitivity to insulin, allowing cells to take up glucose more efficiently.
  3. Improving peripheral glucose uptake: These drugs help muscle and fat cells absorb glucose, thus lowering blood glucose levels.

Additionally, biguanides have a mild effect on reducing intestinal absorption of glucose, though this is not their primary mechanism.

Drugs in the Biguanide Class

  1. Metformin – The most commonly prescribed biguanide, it is available in immediate-release and extended-release forms. Metformin is often prescribed as the first-line therapy for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
  2. Phenformin – Previously used, but withdrawn from the market due to its association with an increased risk of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious side effect.
  3. Buformin – Similar to phenformin, it has largely been phased out in favor of safer alternatives, including metformin.

Conclusion

Biguanides, particularly metformin, are vital in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, offering significant benefits in blood sugar control with relatively low side effects. Their ability to target multiple mechanisms, from reducing hepatic glucose production to enhancing insulin sensitivity, makes them a cornerstone of diabetes management.

Metformin- Uses, Side effects & More

November 25, 2024 Antidiabetic Drugs, Biguanides 0

metformin

Metformin is one of the most widely prescribed medications and a member of biguanide class of drugs for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. As an oral hypoglycemic agent, it is recognized for its efficacy, safety profile, and versatility in treating not only diabetes but also a variety of …

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