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Metformin is an antihyperglycemic drug prescribed to patients with type 2 diabetes to increase their glucose tolerance. The drug acts by lowering hepatic gluconeogenesis and decreasing glucose absorption in the intestines. It accumulates in the mitochondria and inhibits Complex 1 in the mitochondria’s respiratory activity (Rena et al., 2017). This suppresses ATP production and, consequently, glucose production. Metformin also increases insulin sensitivity by improving the uptake of glucose in peripheral blood vessels. The drug is contraindicated in patients with renal dysfunction and patients who are hypersensitive to it. Patients with metabolic acidoses, such as diabetic ketoacidosis, should not use the medication. Patients who are taking part in radiologic studies and are given iodinated contrast substances intravenously should not use metformin during the study period. The substances usually modify renal activity.
Since metformin is an oral drug, the patient should be reminded to perform a blood sugar test regularly at home. The patient should then maintain the sugar levels at the set range. This helps to prevent complications related to poor glucose control. The patient should also observe the lifestyle changes recommended to reduce the risks of complications.
Type 2 diabetes patients should change their diet into a healthy one. This helps control their blood pressure, weight, and increases the body’s ability to produce and respond to insulin. Regular physical exercise also manages blood sugar levels by improving the body’s response to insulin. However, they should watch their sugar levels as they may get too low. Patients that smoke should quit because of the complications it causes. Smoking leads to an increase in blood sugar levels and raises the risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Other complications include kidney damage, damage to blood vessels and nerves, and having slow-healing wounds.
Reference
Rena, G., Hardie, D. G., & Pearson, E. R. (2017). The mechanisms of action of metformin. Diabetologia, 60(9), 1577-1585. Web.
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