What type of medication is Metformin?

Metformin is classified as a biguanide, which is an important category of oral antihyperglycemic medications primarily used in the management of type 2 diabetes. The mechanism of action of metformin involves decreasing hepatic glucose production, increasing insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues, and enhancing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. Unlike insulin, it does not stimulate insulin secretion from the pancreas, which helps reduce the risk of hypoglycemia that can occur with other antidiabetic agents.

Biguanides like metformin are often a first-line treatment option for patients with type 2 diabetes due to their efficacy in controlling blood sugar levels, favorable side effect profile, and possible benefits in weight management and cardiovascular health. This class of medications has a distinctive mechanism and therapeutic utility when compared to sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, and insulin, which primarily work by other means to regulate blood glucose.