#Drug #Endocrinology

Metformin

evan April 12, 2024

Drug Class	Biguanide
Mechanism	“Increases insulin sensitivity” ↓ gluconeogenesis ↑ peripheral use of glucose Only effective if some residual functioning of pancreatic islet cells
Typical Dose	500mg OD taken with breakfast to a max of 2g
Indications	Type II DM
Contra-indications	Conditions predisposing to lactic acidosis (hepatic/ impairment, severe HF, infection, dehydration) EGFR <36
Side-effects	Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, lactic acidosis GI symptom side effects (can switch to modified release)
Interactions	Alcohol: ↑ risk of lactic acidosis Corticosteroids: antagonise hypoglycaemia effect
Elimination	Renal - tubular secretion
Additional Notes	Does not cause hypoglycaemia