Biguanides
Biguanides function by making the insulin that is produced
by the body work better. This takes away the effect of a lesser insulin
amount, reducing hepatic glucose output, decreasing intestinal glucose
absorption, and to a small extent enhancing the sensitivity of the insulin
in the hepatic and peripheral tissues. This agent works to inhibit the
gluconeogensis pathway, which produces glucose. This drug has also been
proven to lower basal and postprandial plasma glucose levels. This also
has been reported to reduce plasma triglyceride and low density lipoprotein
cholesterol levels. To learn more about the insulin receptor, click here.
Biguanides have been long used outside the country but
just recently were introduced in this country. The use is now second only
to sulfonylureas. The drug is made even more attractive by its ability
to limit the weight gain commonly associated with diabetes medication,
achieved by increased glucose control.