Metformin is one of the most commonly used medications for treating type 2 diabetes.
It helps lower blood sugar levels, mainly by reducing how much sugar the liver makes and by helping the body respond better to insulin, the hormone that controls blood sugar.
But Metformin does more than just lower blood sugar. It also protects the heart. People with diabetes have a higher risk of heart problems, and studies show Metformin can reduce that risk.
One large study published in the medical journal The Lancet found that people with diabetes who took Metformin had a 39% lower chance of heart problems compared to those who did not take it.
Metformin can also help people lose weight. It reduces appetite and improves the way the body uses insulin. This helps the body take in less sugar and store less fat. Many people with type 2 diabetes struggle with weight, so this added benefit can be helpful.
Another plus is that Metformin lowers inflammation in the body. Inflammation is linked to many long-term diseases, including heart disease and some cancers. By lowering inflammation, Metformin may help protect the body from other serious health problems.
However, Metformin is not without side effects. The most common ones are stomach issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. These problems are usually mild and can often be avoided by taking Metformin with food.
One thing to watch for is low vitamin B12 levels. Metformin can make it harder for the body to absorb this important vitamin. Low B12 can lead to tiredness, nerve problems, and anemia. People taking Metformin for a long time should have their B12 levels checked during routine doctor visits.
A rare but serious side effect is lactic acidosis. This is a dangerous buildup of lactic acid in the body. It is very rare but can be life-threatening. It mostly happens in people who already have serious kidney or liver problems or who take very high doses of the drug.
Metformin can also cause low blood sugar, though this is uncommon. It usually only happens when it’s taken with other diabetes medicines or when a person doesn’t eat enough. Signs of low blood sugar include shaking, dizziness, and confusion.
Even with these risks, Metformin is considered safe and very helpful for most people with type 2 diabetes. The key is to use it as directed by a doctor. Regular checkups and blood tests can help make sure the medicine is working and not causing harm.
In summary, Metformin is more than just a blood sugar drug. It protects the heart, helps with weight loss, lowers inflammation, and supports better health overall. Used the right way, it can be a powerful part of managing type 2 diabetes.
If you care about diabetes, please read studies about Widely prescribed drug may increase sudden cardiac arrest risk in people with diabetes and findings of These common drugs linked to sudden cardiac arrest in people with type 2 diabetes.
For more about diabetes, please read studies about New diabetes drug could control blood sugar and body weight better and findings of Common diabetes drugs linked to increased heart risk.
Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
