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Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 2001; 109(Suppl 2): S259-S264
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-18587
Treatment

© Johann Ambrosius Barth

Metformin, the rebirth of a biguanide: mechanism of action and place in the prevention and treatment of insulin resistance

H. Mehnert
  • Institut für Diabetesforschung Städtisches Akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus München-Schwabing, München, Germany
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Publication History

Publication Date:
23 November 2001 (online)

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Summary:

Metformin should be regarded as a first-choice therapy of type 2 diabetes, showing an especially good efficacy in obese patients with hyperinsulinaemia. Reduction of blood glucose without hyperinsulinaemia and without hypoglycaemia, favourable influence on the lipid profile and inhibition of coagulation factors lead to an antidiabetic and antiatherogenic effect. Not only are these characteristics relevant to judging the value of the drug, but also the strict observation of contraindications is needed to avoid the dangerous complication of lactic acidosis.

Key words:

Metformin - biguanides - diabetes mellitus - insulin resistance