Type 2 diabetes is an extremely common condition in the U.S., and the number of diagnoses rise every year. Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which glucose levels in the blood are higher than the normal value. Glucose can be defined as a type of sugar that the body uses as its primary energy source. Type 2 diabetes can occur when there is not enough insulin produced, or when insulin is not used effectively by the body. Insulin is a hormone in the body that helps regulate blood glucose levels. Insulin allows cells to absorb glucose so it can be used as energy. If glucose levels become too high, this is called hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia can cause symptoms that include, but are not limited to, nerve problems, excessive peeing, and extreme hunger. It is important that individuals with type 2 diabetes have the appropriate treatment plan and medications to help the body regulate blood sugar to prevent these extreme symptoms.
Metformin is one of the medications that is more commonly used to manage type 2 diabetes. Metformin works to control blood glucose levels in a variety of ways in individuals with diabetes. One way that Metformin works is by telling the liver to produce less glucose. The liver normally produces glucose, however it produces too much glucose in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, Metformin helps cells be more responsive to insulin so that the cells can absorb glucose and create energy. Metformin also lowers the amount of sugar that is absorbed by the intestines from food. These functions of Metformin help lower the blood glucose levels in the body, and prevent the symptoms of hyperglycemia. Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board