Metformin is a commonly used drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and is widely used in clinical practice because of its significant hypoglycemic effect and relative safety. However, long-term use of metformin may also pose some potential problems. When the following 6 symptoms are present, it is important to raise a high level of vigilance.
1. Efficacy and use of metformin
Metformin lowers blood sugar primarily by reducing glycogen output in the liver, increasing glucose uptake and utilization in peripheral tissues, and improving insulin sensitivity. It can not only effectively reduce fasting blood sugar, but also has a good control effect on postprandial blood sugar.
In addition to its hypoglycemic effects, metformin may also bring some additional benefits, such as weight loss, improvement of dyslipidemia, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
2. Analysis of modern pharmacological research
1. Mechanism of action: Metformin regulates metabolic processes by activating the adenylate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, thereby exerting a hypoglycemic effect.
2. Effect on islet function: It can improve the function of pancreatic islet β cells and reduce the apoptosis of pancreatic islet cells.
3. Cardiovascular protection: Several studies have shown that metformin may have a certain protective effect on the cardiovascular system.
3. 6 symptoms that may occur when taking metformin for a long time
1. Vitamin B12 deficiency: Metformin may affect vitamin B12 absorption, leading to vitamin B12 deficiency. Symptoms include fatigue, fatigue, numbness in the hands and feet, difficulty walking, etc. Long-term vitamin B12 deficiency can also lead to anemia and neuropathy.
2. Gastrointestinal discomfort: This is a common adverse reaction of metformin, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, etc. Although these symptoms usually appear early in treatment, they may persist or worsen after long-term use.
3. Lactic acidosis: Although the incidence is extremely low, lactic acidosis is a serious potential complication of metformin. Symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, confusion, muscle pain, etc. It is especially likely to occur in the case of liver and kidney insufficiency and hypoxia.
4. Hypoglycemic reaction: Metformin alone generally does not cause hypoglycemia, but it may cause hypoglycemia symptoms such as dizziness, palpitation, cold sweat, etc., when used in combination with other hypoglycemic drugs or in some cases (such as irregular diet, strenuous exercise, etc.).
5. Skin problems: A small number of patients may have skin problems such as rashes and itching.
6. Others: Long-term use of metformin may also affect kidney function and cause elevated blood uric acid.
Fourth, coping strategies
1. Regular monitoring: For patients who have been taking metformin for a long time, blood routine and biochemical indicators (including vitamin B12, liver and kidney function, etc.) should be regularly tested to detect potential problems in a timely manner.
2. Vitamin B12 supplementation: Vitamin B12 supplementation should be given under the guidance of a physician for patients who already have symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency or whose test results suggest a deficiency.
3. Adjust the treatment plan: If the gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms seriously affect the quality of life or other symptoms cannot be tolerated, you should seek medical attention in time, and the doctor may adjust the treatment plan, such as reducing the dose, changing the medication, etc.
4. Pay attention to risk factors: For patients with risk factors such as liver and kidney insufficiency and hypoxia, monitoring should be strengthened and metformin should be used with caution.
In conclusion, metformin is an effective hypoglycemic drug, but long-term use also requires attention to possible symptoms. Patients should closely cooperate with their physicians for monitoring and treatment to ensure that the medication is safe and effective, while maintaining good lifestyle habits and blood sugar control to improve quality of life.
As one of the cornerstones of diabetes treatment, the importance of metformin is self-evident. However, we can't ignore the potential effects that can come with long-term use. By gaining a deeper understanding of its benefits, its uses, and the symptoms that may occur, we can better manage diabetes and protect good health.