Metformin, class biguanide, is a synthetic derivative of French Lilac (Galega officinalis), a herbal plant traditionally employed in Europe for diabetes treatment [23]. In 1957 French diabetologist Jean Sterne first published the drug's properties and result of administration in humans for diabetes [24].
Metformin was originally developed from natural compounds found in the plant Galega officinalis, known as French lilac or goat's rue. Synthetic biguanides were developed in the 1920s in Germany, but their use was limited due to side effects.
Learn about Berberine
A 2012 study published in European Journal of Endocrinology shows berberine has similar insulin normalizing benefits as Metformin for PCOS but without the side effects. Further, berberine was superior to Metformin in reducing other risk factors like waist circumference and waist-to-hip ratio.
Metformin originates from the plant Galega officinalis or French lilac, goat's plant or goat's rue. This plant was fed to goats to improve milk production.
Metformin is used to treat high blood sugar levels that are caused by a type of diabetes mellitus or sugar diabetes called type 2 diabetes.
Precose, Januvia, Victoza, Glucotrol XL, and Actos are some metformin alternatives.
This is because an unacceptable level of a probable carcinogen (cancer-causing agent) was found in some extended-release metformin tablets. If you currently take this drug, call your healthcare provider. They will advise whether you should continue to take your medication or if you need a new prescription.
Metformin was approved in Canada in 1972, but did not receive approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for type 2 diabetes until 1994. Produced under license by Bristol-Myers Squibb, Glucophage was the first branded formulation of metformin to be marketed in the U.S., beginning on 3 March 1995.
Tree turmeric (Berberis aristate) is a shrub found in India and Nepal. It contains high amounts of a chemical called berberine.
Berberine (also known as berberine hydrochloride) is a natural isoquinoline alkaloid found in a wide variety of herbs, including goldenseal, barberry, goldthread, Oregon grape and tree turmeric.
Background Plant parts of Moringa oleifera Lam. (Moringaceae) is known to lower blood glucose level and as a result, type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (T2DM) sometimes use it as herbal supplements.
The safety profile for metformin is quite good. Side effects include nausea, stomach upset, or diarrhea; these tend to be mild. More serious side effects are rare. They include severe allergic reactions and a condition called lactic acidosis, a buildup of lactic acid in the bloodstream.
The companies are recalling metformin because it may contain N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) above the acceptable intake limit.
Metformin is also available in combination with other medications that lower blood sugar, like Jentadueto (linagliptin/metformin) and Invokamet (canagliflozin/metformin). Besides diabetes, metformin is used for a number of other health conditions.
Barley or jau water is high in insoluble fibre, which makes it good for diabetics. It is recommended for diabetics as it helps stabilise blood glucose levels. Make sure you drink unsweetened barley water to get effective results. The antioxidant properties of barley water also helps keep many diseases at bay.
Insulin remains the most effective therapy to lower glucose, particularly in comparison to most oral medicines for type 2 (including metformin).
Metformin doesn't cause kidney damage. The kidneys process and clear the medication out of your system through your urine. If your kidneys don't function properly, there's concern that metformin can build up in your system and cause a condition called lactic acidosis.
Metformin lowers your blood sugar levels by improving the way your body handles insulin. It's usually prescribed for diabetes when diet and exercise alone have not been enough to control your blood sugar levels.
In addition, many oral agents have specific contraindications that may occur in hospitalized patients: Metformin – Metformin is contraindicated in situations in which renal function and/or hemodynamic status is either impaired or threatened, due to the increased risk of lactic acidosis.
Abstract. Metformin, a synthetic biguanide, is currently one of the most frequently recommended medications for type 2 diabetes treatment around the world.
Why Shouldn't You Stop Taking Metformin? Metformin works by decreasing the amount of sugar your liver releases into your blood, making your body more sensitive to insulin's effects. If you suddenly discontinue use, it can lead to dangerously high blood sugar levels.
Risks of stopping metformin
If left untreated, high blood glucose levels can lead to complications, such as: impaired vision, or diabetic retinopathy. kidney problems, or diabetic nephropathy. nerve damage, or diabetic neuropathy.