Metformin hydrochloride

Metformin decreases the level of androgens produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands. It also helps the body use insulin and may reduce the risk of diabetes.

Metformin lowers blood sugar levels by:

• Decreasing the amount of sugar produced by the liver.
• Increasing the amount of sugar absorbed by muscle cells and decreasing the body's resistance to insulin (insulin resistance).

When blood sugar is lower, less insulin is needed, so the body makes less insulin. And when insulin is lower, the body produces a lower level of androgens.

Metformin is a diabetes medicine sometimes used for lowering insulin and blood sugar levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This helps regulate menstrual cycles, start ovulation, and lower the risk of miscarriage in women with PCOS. Long-term use also lowers diabetes and heart disease risk related to high insulin levels.

Metformin:

• Does not cause the pancreas to make more insulin. When taken alone, it will not cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
• Lowers fat (lipid and triglyceride) levels in the blood.
• Reduces abnormal clotting factors and markers of inflammation that can lead to hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis).
• Decreases the level of androgens.

Metformin can be used to treat women with PCOS to reduce insulin levels and promote normal ovarian function. Metformin is best used in addition to eating a healthy diet, losing weight, and exercising regularly.

Metformin lowers insulin, androgen, and cholesterol levels. It also improves metabolism in women who are insulin-resistant.

The most common side effects of metformin are:

• Nausea.
• Loss of appetite.
• Diarrhea.
• Increased abdominal gas.
• A metallic taste.

You may need to stop taking metformin temporarily before major surgery or other medical procedures, such as X-rays that use contrast dyes. Talk to your doctor about this before your surgery or procedure.

The effect of metformin may be increased if you also take cimetidine (Tagamet). Before taking metformin, talk with your doctor about any other medicines you are taking.