Metfor is an oral antidiabetic medication that contains metformin hydrochloride as its active ingredient. It is commonly prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially in individuals who are overweight or have difficulty controlling their blood sugar through diet and exercise alone. Metfor is widely recommended as a first-line treatment due to its effectiveness, safety profile, and minimal risk of causing low blood sugar when used alone.

Mechanism of Action
Metformin works primarily by decreasing the amount of glucose produced by the liver, a process known as hepatic gluconeogenesis. It also increases the sensitivity of muscle cells to insulin, which helps the body use glucose more efficiently. Additionally, it slows the absorption of sugar from the intestines, leading to better overall control of blood sugar levels.

Unlike many other antidiabetic agents, metformin does not increase insulin secretion from the pancreas. This significantly lowers the risk of hypoglycaemia when used by itself.

Uses
Metfor is used for:

• Managing type 2 diabetes in adults and children over ten years of age

• Improving blood sugar control in patients not adequately managed through diet and physical activity alone

• Reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications such as nerve damage, kidney problems, and cardiovascular disease

• Sometimes used off-label in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to improve insulin resistance and hormonal balance

  Adverse Effects
  Metfor is generally well tolerated, but like all medications, it may cause some side effects, especially when treatment is first started or when the dose is increased.

  Common side effects:

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Diarrhoea

  • Abdominal discomfort

  • Loss of appetite

  • Metallic taste in the mouth