Important Information
Metformin is an antihyperglycemic agent which improves glucose
tolerance in patients with type 2 diabetes, lowering both basal and postprandial
plasma glucose. Its pharmacologic mechanisms of action are different from other
classes of oral antihyperglycemic agents. Metformin decreases hepatic glucose
production, decreases intestinal absorption of glucose, and improves insulin
sensitivity by increasing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. Unlike
sulfonylureas, metformin does not produce hypoglycemia in either patients with
type 2 diabetes or normal subjects (except in special circumstances, see Prescribing
Information) and does not cause hyperinsulinemia. With metformin
therapy, insulin secretion remains unchanged while fasting insulin levels and
day-long plasma insulin response may actually decrease.
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