What type of medication is Metformin?

Metformin is classified as a biguanide, which is a type of antihyperglycemic medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes. Its main mechanism of action involves reducing hepatic glucose production, particularly by decreasing gluconeogenesis in the liver, and also enhancing peripheral insulin sensitivity. This helps lower blood glucose levels effectively without causing significant weight gain, which is a common side effect associated with some other diabetes medications.

In contrast, sulfonylureas stimulate insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells, thiazolidinediones improve insulin sensitivity primarily in fat cells and muscle, and insulin itself is a hormone that regulates glucose metabolism directly by enabling cells to uptake glucose. Each of these classes has different mechanisms and indications for use in managing diabetes, which sets them apart from metformin's unique actions.