Biguanides
Oral antidiabetic drugs that decrease hepatic glucose production.
Mechanism of Action
Biguanides work by lowering blood sugar in several ways. Their main action is to decrease the amount of glucose (sugar) your liver makes and releases into your bloodstream. They also help your body respond better to insulin, the hormone that moves sugar from your blood into your cells for energy. Additionally, biguanides can slightly reduce how much sugar your intestines absorb from food. These combined actions help to reduce high blood sugar levels, which is crucial for managing type 2 diabetes.
Clinical Uses
Biguanides are primarily prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes. They are often the first medicine doctors recommend for new diagnoses, especially for people who are overweight or obese. While their main use is for diabetes, sometimes doctors may use them for other conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) to help with insulin resistance, though this is considered an off-label use. This drug class helps many patients manage their blood sugar and can also aid in weight management.
Side Effects & Safety
The most common side effects of biguanides include stomach upset, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and gas, especially when first starting the medication. These usually improve over time. A very rare but serious side effect to watch for is lactic acidosis, which is a dangerous buildup of acid in the blood; symptoms include extreme tiredness, muscle pain, trouble breathing, and a slow heartbeat. This risk is higher in people with kidney problems or those who drink a lot of alcohol.
Conditions Treated
Biguanides medications are used to treat the following conditions:
Biguanides Medications (4)
Metformin
Brand: Glucophage, Glucophage XR, Glumetza +2 more
Metformin (Glucophage) is the first-line oral medication for type 2 diabetes in adults and children aged 10 and older. It lowers blood sugar by reducing the liver's glucose output, improving insulin sensitivity in muscle and fat tissue, and mildly slowing intestinal glucose absorption — without causing weight gain or hypoglycemia on its own. It is available as an inexpensive generic and costs as little as $4–$15 per month.
$4–$15/month/month
Metformin er 500 mg
Brand: Metformin
METFORMIN ER 500 MG (brand name: Metformin) is a Biguanides. INDICATIONS & USAGE Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets, USP are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
$10–$40/month/month
Metformin hcl
Brand: Metformin HCl
METFORMIN HCL (brand name: Metformin HCl) is a Biguanides. INDICATIONS & USAGE Metformin Hydrochloride Tablets USP are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults and children with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
$4–$25/month/month
Metformin hydrochloride
Brand: Metformin Hydrochloride
Metformin hydrochloride is the salt form of metformin (Glucophage), the first-line oral medication for type 2 diabetes. See the metformin monograph for complete prescribing information.
$4-$25/month/month
Compare Biguanides Prices
See typical monthly costs, generic availability, and savings options for all 4 Biguanides medications side-by-side.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.