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Metformin only
Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and inhibiting mitochondrial complex I.
Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity, lowering blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes. Used for Type 2 diabetes mellitus, Prediabetes (prevention of progression to type 2 diabetes), Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
At a glance
| Generic name | Metformin only |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Sheba Medical Center |
| Drug class | Biguanide |
| Target | AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), mitochondrial complex I |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Diabetes |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Metformin decreases gluconeogenesis in the liver, the primary source of excess glucose in type 2 diabetes, while also enhancing peripheral glucose uptake and utilization. It does not stimulate insulin secretion, making it weight-neutral and safe from hypoglycemia when used as monotherapy. The drug's effects are mediated through AMPK activation and suppression of complex I in the electron transport chain, leading to improved metabolic homeostasis.
Approved indications
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Prediabetes (prevention of progression to type 2 diabetes)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with insulin resistance
Common side effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbance (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort)
- Metallic taste
- Vitamin B12 deficiency (with long-term use)
- Lactic acidosis (rare, in renal impairment)
Key clinical trials
- Modular Clinical Pharmacology Study to Evaluate the Drug-drug Interaction Potential and Relative Bioavailability of Saruparib (PHASE1)
- Diabetes Management for Primary Healthcare Centers. (NA)
- Safety and Tolerability of Metformin in People With Tuberculosis (TB) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) (PHASE2)
- Effects of Cofrogliptin on Beta-Cell Function in LADA Patients (NA)
- An Efficacy and Safety Study of Erdafitinib (JNJ-42756493) in Participants With Urothelial Cancer (PHASE2)
- Adding 1% Metformin Gel to Bone Graft in Association With Immediate Dental Implants (NA)
- To Evaluate the Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics of Inavolisib Single Agent in Participants With Solid Tumors and in Combination With Endocrine and Targeted Therapies in Participants With Breast Cancer (PHASE1)
- Study of Pharmacologic Manipulation of AGE (Advanced Glycation Endproducts) Levels in Prostate Cancer Patients Receiving Androgen Deprivation Therapy (PHASE2)
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 |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Metformin only CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Metformin only updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Sheba Medical Center portfolio CI