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Metformin plus pioglitazone

Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University · Phase 3 active Small molecule

Metformin plus pioglitazone is a Biguanide plus thiazolidinedione Small molecule drug developed by Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University. It is currently in Phase 3 development for Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity, while pioglitazone enhances insulin sensitivity by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) in adipose and muscle tissue.

Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity, while pioglitazone enhances insulin sensitivity by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) in adipose and muscle tissue. Used for Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

At a glance

Generic nameMetformin plus pioglitazone
SponsorNanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University
Drug classBiguanide plus thiazolidinedione
TargetPPAR-γ (pioglitazone component); metformin target not fully elucidated but involves mitochondrial function
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaDiabetes
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

This combination targets type 2 diabetes through complementary pathways: metformin acts primarily on the liver to decrease gluconeogenesis and improve peripheral glucose uptake, while pioglitazone increases insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues by promoting glucose uptake and reducing hepatic glucose output. Together, they provide synergistic glycemic control by addressing both hepatic and peripheral insulin resistance.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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Frequently asked questions about Metformin plus pioglitazone

What is Metformin plus pioglitazone?

Metformin plus pioglitazone is a Biguanide plus thiazolidinedione drug developed by Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, indicated for Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

How does Metformin plus pioglitazone work?

Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity, while pioglitazone enhances insulin sensitivity by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) in adipose and muscle tissue.

What is Metformin plus pioglitazone used for?

Metformin plus pioglitazone is indicated for Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Who makes Metformin plus pioglitazone?

Metformin plus pioglitazone is developed by Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University (see full Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University pipeline at /company/nanjing-first-hospital-nanjing-medical-university).

What drug class is Metformin plus pioglitazone in?

Metformin plus pioglitazone belongs to the Biguanide plus thiazolidinedione class. See all Biguanide plus thiazolidinedione drugs at /class/biguanide-plus-thiazolidinedione.

What development phase is Metformin plus pioglitazone in?

Metformin plus pioglitazone is in Phase 3.

What are the side effects of Metformin plus pioglitazone?

Common side effects of Metformin plus pioglitazone include Hypoglycemia, Weight gain, Fluid retention / edema, Gastrointestinal disturbance (metformin component), Heart failure exacerbation.

What does Metformin plus pioglitazone target?

Metformin plus pioglitazone targets PPAR-γ (pioglitazone component); metformin target not fully elucidated but involves mitochondrial function and is a Biguanide plus thiazolidinedione.

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