Biguanides

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Biguanides

Biguanides (pronunciation: bi-gwan-ides) are a class of medications used primarily for the management of Type 2 diabetes. They function by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver and by making the body more sensitive to insulin.

Etymology

The term "biguanide" is derived from its chemical structure, which consists of two (bi-) guanidine groups. Guanidine itself is a compound that was first isolated from the plant Galega officinalis, also known as French lilac or goat's rue.

Types of Biguanides

There are three types of biguanides: Phenformin, Buformin, and Metformin. Of these, Metformin is the most commonly prescribed and is considered the first-line treatment for Type 2 diabetes.

Phenformin

Phenformin was used from the 1950s through the 1970s, but was discontinued due to its association with lactic acidosis, a serious and potentially fatal side effect.

Buformin

Buformin, like Phenformin, was associated with an increased risk of lactic acidosis and has been withdrawn from many markets.

Metformin

Metformin is currently the most widely used biguanide, with a better safety profile than its predecessors. It is used not only for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes, but also for Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and in some cases, prediabetes.

Side Effects

Common side effects of biguanides include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. More serious side effects can include lactic acidosis, particularly in patients with kidney problems.

Related Terms

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