Why do they call metformin the wonder drug?
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Why do they call metformin the wonder drug?
Metformin has been called a “miracle drug” because of its low cost, minimal risks, and ability to stave off diabetes and potentially aging. An April 2019 study found metformin has the potential to help some people lose weight and maintain that weight loss for long periods of time.
What is the first-line drug for diabetes?
Metformin (Fortamet, Glumetza, others) is generally the first medication prescribed for type 2 diabetes.
What is the triad of treatment for diabetes?
The classic triad of diabetes management includes diet, exercise, and pharmacological intervention. A variety of complications may result due to this chronic disease, and manipulation of the triad of treatment factors may be necessary in order to effectively treat the individual patient.
Can you take metformin forever?
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) also recommends metformin for some patients with prediabetes. Generally, if you are prescribed metformin, you will be on it long term. That could be many decades, unless you experience complications or changes to your health that require you to stop taking it.
What are the 4 P’s of diabetes?
The bottom line The three P’s of diabetes are polydipsia, polyuria, and polyphagia. These terms correspond to increases in thirst, urination, and appetite, respectively. The three P’s often — but not always — occur together.
What should your blood sugar be when on metformin?
People who don’t have diabetes keep their blood sugars between 60 – 100 mg/dl overnight and before meals, and less than 140 mg/dl after meals.
What sugar level requires metformin?
Recent guidelines recommend considering use of metformin in patients with prediabetes (fasting plasma glucose 100-125 mg/dL, 2-hr post-load glucose 140-199 mg/dL, or A1C 5.7-6.4%), especially in those who are <60 years old, have a BMI >35 kg/m2, or have a history of gestational diabetes.
Is there a downside to taking metformin?
Under certain conditions, too much metformin can cause lactic acidosis. The symptoms of lactic acidosis are severe and quick to appear, and usually occur when other health problems not related to the medicine are present and are very severe, such as a heart attack or kidney failure.
What works better than metformin?
Insulin remains the most effective therapy to lower glucose, particularly in comparison to most oral medicines for type 2 (including metformin).
