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Review Article
Drug Therapy
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Volume 334:574-579 February 29, 1996 Number 9
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Metformin
Clifford J. Bailey, Ph.D., M.R.C.Path., and Robert C. Turner, M.D.

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Metformin (dimethylbiguanide) is an orally administered drug used to lower blood glucose concentrations in patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM).1 It improves insulin sensitivity and thus decreases the insulin resistance that is prevalent in NIDDM. The efficacy of glycemic control achieved with metformin is similar to that achieved with sulfonylureas, although their modes of action differ. Metformin can be used either as initial therapy or as an additional drug when sulfonylurea therapy alone is inadequate. In this article we shall discuss the pharmacology and clinical use of metformin, which is now available in the United States.

The Burden of Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus

An estimated 12 million . . . [Full Text of this Article]

The Effects of Improved Glycemic Control

The Pathophysiology of Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus

Healthful Living and Its Limitations

Sulfonylurea Therapy and Its Limitations

History of Biguanides

Mechanisms of Action of Metformin

Comparison of Sulfonylurea and Metformin Therapy

Initiating and Monitoring Therapy with Metformin

Lactic Acidosis

Use of Metformin Therapy during Intervening Illnesses

Conclusions


Source Information

From the Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham (C.J.B.), and the Diabetes Research Laboratories, Radcliffe Infirmary, Oxford (R.C.T.) — both in the United Kingdom.

Address reprint requests to Dr. Bailey at the Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, Aston University, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, United Kingdom.

References


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