The drug metformin is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus, a chronic illness in which the body either stops producing insulin or develops resistance to its effects. Metformin is a member of the biguanide medication class, which improves insulin sensitivity by decreasing the liver's synthesis of glucose.

There are various brand names for metformin, such as Riomet, Glucophage, Glumetza, and Fortamet. "Metformin hydrochloride" or "metformin HCl" is the generic term for the medication metformin. Usually, pills or tablets with prolonged release are given orally.

For the management of type 2 diabetes, metformin is usually given in conjunction with dietary and activity adjustments. It can be taken either alone or in conjunction with other drugs, such as insulin or sulfonylureas, and is frequently the first-line treatment for this condition.

Typically, 500 milligrams (mg) of metformin should be taken once daily with a meal. Depending on the patient's blood glucose levels and reaction to treatment, the dosage may be gradually increased over time. Typically, 2,000 mg is the maximum daily dose of metformin.

The ability of metformin to lower blood glucose levels can help prevent or delay the onset of long-term problems related to diabetes, including neuropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular disease. This is one of the drug's most important advantages.

Weight loss is another side effect of metformin that some people have reported, which is good news for overweight or obese people with type 2 diabetes. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides may also be improved by the medication.

Metformin might have side effects, just like any other medicine. Gastrointestinal side effects including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are the most frequent ones. When treatment is started, these symptoms could appear, and they might go away eventually.  Other less common adverse effects include headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

A rare but potentially dangerous disorder known as lactic acidosis, or an accumulation of lactic acid in the blood, can also be brought on by metformin. Symptoms of lactic acidosis include weakness, soreness in the muscles, breathing difficulties, and discomfort in the abdomen. It is more prevalent in those who take large dosages of metformin and have issues with their kidneys or liver.

Metformin should not be used in patients with severe liver or kidney illness, alcoholism, or congestive heart failure due to the danger of lactic acidosis. Additionally, people who are elderly, have respiratory or metabolic acidosis, are having surgery, or are undergoing other treatments that could impair kidney function should use it with caution.

Metformin may have interactions with some antibiotics, antifungal drugs, and diuretics, among other medications. Therefore, before beginning Metformin therapy, patients should disclose to their healthcare provider all medications they are currently taking.

To sum up, metformin is a drug that is often prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes. In order to treat diabetes, it is typically given orally in the form of pills or extended-release tablets, frequently in conjunction with lifestyle changes. Metformin improves insulin sensitivity in the body and lowers the liver's synthesis of glucose. It can induce negative effects like lactic acidosis and gastrointestinal issues, but it also has many positive effects, such as reducing blood glucose levels and promoting weight loss. Before starting Metformin, patients must notify their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking, as well as be aware of the drug's potential hazards and advantages.