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Metformin (blinded)
Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK).
Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Used for Type 2 diabetes mellitus, Prediabetes (prevention of progression to type 2 diabetes), Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
At a glance
| Generic name | Metformin (blinded) |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | AstraZeneca |
| Drug class | Biguanide |
| Target | AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK); Complex I of the mitochondrial electron transport chain |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Diabetes |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
Metformin is a biguanide that primarily works by decreasing gluconeogenesis in the liver and enhancing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. It activates AMPK, a key metabolic regulator, which suppresses mTORC1 signaling and reduces hepatic glucose output. Additionally, metformin may improve insulin sensitivity in muscle and adipose tissue, making it effective for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes.
Approved indications
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Prediabetes (prevention of progression to type 2 diabetes)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Common side effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbance (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort)
- Metallic taste
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Lactic acidosis (rare, in renal impairment)
Key clinical trials
- Precision Dosing of Metformin in Youth With T2D (EARLY_PHASE1)
- Metformin in Preventing Secondary Gliosis Following Acute Thoraco-Lumbar Spinal Cord Injury (PHASE4)
- Efficacy and Safety of HRS-7535 Tablets in T2DM Subjects Poorly Controlled With Metformin and SGLT2i. (PHASE2)
- Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Substudy of the DECIDE RCT
- Effect of Metformin, a Drug Used to Treat Diabetes, vs Placebo (PHASE4)
- PI4 - A Trial Assessing Metformin to Prolong Gestation in Preterm Preeclampsia (PHASE3)
- The Effect of Dapagliflozin on Weight Loss in Obese Adults Without Diabetes (PHASE4)
- A Study of HRS-7535 Compared With Dapagliflozin in Adult Participants With Type 2 Diabetes and Inadequately Controlled With Metformin (PHASE3)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |