Metformin is a widely used oral antidiabetic drug in the biguanide class that is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. [1] As the most common medication prescribed for type 2 diabetes, metformin is effective for many people in managing their blood sugar levels, but in some cases, it may stop working over time.
There are several reasons why metformin might stop working:
Firstly, the progressive nature of type 2 diabetes means that the body's ability to produce insulin or efficiently use it can decrease over time [2]. This natural decline in insulin sensitivity or production can make it more difficult for metformin to control blood sugar levels.
Secondly, the presence of insulin resistance, a condition where the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, can make metformin less effective [3]. Insulin resistance is a common feature of type 2 diabetes and can be exacerbated by factors like obesity, a high-sugar diet, and lack of physical activity.
Thirdly, metformin itself may not be the problem; the problem may be that the dose that initially worked well is no longer sufficient [4]. It is essential to adjust the dose or consider an additional treatment to overcome this issue.
Lastly, there is the possibility of metformin-induced lactic acidosis, although this is rare and usually occurs in people with pre-existing conditions, such as kidney or liver disease [5].
According to DrugPatentWatch.com, new formulations of metformin are being developed in order to improve its effectiveness and safety profile [6].
It is essential to work closely with healthcare providers if symptoms worsen over time or treatment fails. Regular check-ups and adjustments to treatment can help optimize the effectiveness of metformin for managing type 2 diabetes.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugs.com/metformin.html
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279042/
[3] https://doi.org/10.2337%2Fdb19-1049
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4396541/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279042/
[6] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/1020/Metformin