Metformin / Metforal (Glucophage)
Reviewing the chemistry behind Metformin / Glucophage commonly branded Metforal
Insulin is a hormone that regulates the carbohydrate metabolism of the body. This hormone controls the storage of glucose in the muscles and in the liver, which in turn keeps blood sugar levels in a healthy range. Insulin tells the liver and the muscle cells to store glucose.
Diabetes mellitus is condition caused in part by insulin resistance. If the liver and muscle tissues become resistant to the action of insulin, these cells will not store glucose, which leads to an increase in blood sugar levels.
Type II diabetes is partially managed through a program of careful diet and exercise. Some suffers of type II diabetes do not respond to this treatment and must supplement their care with drugs that help control blood sugar levels.
About Metformin
Metformin is a drug prescribed to control abnormal blood sugar levels associated with type II diabetes. Metformin received approval for this use in 19941. Since then, metformin, under the brand name Glucophage has become one of the most common drugs used to treat insulin related disorders.
Metformin is meant to be taken with a meal. In tablet form, metformin is not meant to be chewed or crushed; rather the tablets are swallowed whole, so that the metformin is slowly released into the body.
Why Take Metformin?
Metformin has been studied as a possible treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition in which the ovaries react to high levels of blood sugar. The studies have indicated that metformin is effective as a treatment; however at the time of this writing, this use of metformin has not been approved by the US FDA.
Metformin has also been studied in conjunction with other insulin disorders such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, a condition in which the liver becomes inflamed. The liver inflammation is thought to be caused by insulin resistance, and clinical trials indicate that metformin shows promise in treating this condition.
Currently, metformin is approved for use in the treatment of type II diabetes symptoms which do not respond to diet. Metformin has some potential to protect the cardiovascular system of diabetics.
Final thoughts on Metformin
Persons who are taking drugs other than metformin that affect blood sugar levels should consult a physician before taking metformin.
Persons who are suffering from kidney disease should not use metformin.
Persons who have a history of liver or heart disease should notify their physician of their health condition before taking metformin.
A life threatening condition called lactic acidosis has occurred in some people taking metformin. Persons taking metformin should seek emergency help if they develop any of the following symptoms: weakness, lowered heart rate, fainting or light-headedness, stomach or muscle pain, or shortness of breath.
Alcohol consumption should be avoided while taking metformin because this may increase the chances of lactic acidosis.
Side effects reported by persons taking metformin include headache or muscle pain, weakness, nausea, diarrhea and gas. Rarely, more serious side-effects occur while taking metformin. Persons who experience any of the following side-effects while taking metformin are advised to notify a physician at once:
Fever or flu-like symptoms
Shortness of breath
Rapid weight gain or swelling