Numerous newly recognized pre-diabetes sufferers usually surprise why Metformin, a generally prescribed diabetes care remedy in India, is prescribed to them too. A Quora consumer sought solutions on the identical. “Why do medical doctors prescribe Metformin for pre-diabetes if it’s additionally used later for diabetes?” To convey you verified info, we turned to consultants.
Metformin is among the most studied medicines in diabetes care. “It’s best referred to as the first-line remedy for kind 2 diabetes, however analysis exhibits it additionally helps with pre-diabetes. The reason being easy: pre diabetes indicators that blood sugar is increased than regular, but not excessive sufficient for a diabetes analysis. Beginning Metformin early in sure sufferers can delay and even forestall the event of full-blown diabetes,” mentioned Dr Pranav Ghody, marketing consultant endocrinologist and diabetologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central.
Though Metformin is usually referred to as a diabetes remedy, early use in pre-diabetes targets the identical underlying subject of insulin resistance. “By addressing this downside sooner, Metformin can gradual illness development and decrease the chance of problems. This proactive strategy makes Metformin a helpful software in each pre-diabetes and diabetes care, because it helps more healthy long-term blood sugar management,” mentioned Kanikka Malhotra, marketing consultant dietician and diabetes educator.
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Are you a pre-diabetic? (Picture: Freepik)
Notably, Metformin, which has been used for many years in India, belongs to a gaggle of medicines known as biguanides. “In contrast to many medicine, Metformin doesn’t enhance insulin manufacturing; as an alternative, it helps the physique’s personal insulin work extra successfully,” mentioned Dr Ghody.
It does this by decreasing sugar launch from the liver and enhancing insulin sensitivity in muscle and fats cells.
Dr Ghody mentioned that medical doctors normally think about it for people who find themselves obese, beneath 60 years previous, have a robust household historical past of diabetes, or ladies with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). “In these high-risk teams, making way of life adjustments alone will not be sufficient, and Metformin gives an additional layer of safety,” mentioned Dr Ghody.
What ought to individuals be aware earlier than beginning Metformin?
– Way of life first: Weight loss program, train, and weight administration are the muse. “Metformin is normally prescribed when dangers are excessive or when way of life adjustments aren’t sufficient,” mentioned Dr Ghody.
– Tolerability: Most individuals tolerate it effectively, however some might expertise abdomen upset at first. “Taking it with meals may help cut back unwanted effects,” mentioned Dr Ghody.
– Security: It’s typically protected, however kidney perform ought to be checked earlier than beginning and monitored usually.
– Not a shortcut: Metformin isn’t a “license” to eat something. It really works finest when paired with wholesome habits, mentioned Dr Ghody.
How lengthy to take?
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For somebody with prediabetes, taking Metformin normally means a dedication of a number of years, usually round three, however this could fluctuate primarily based on how the particular person responds to the remedy and way of life adjustments, mentioned Malhotra. “Many individuals begin on a low dose and solely enhance it if wanted, making it simpler to handle any unwanted effects, like abdomen upset,” mentioned Malhotra.
The hot button is to know that Metformin isn’t a fast repair—it’s like a useful companion alongside wholesome consuming and common train. In accordance with Malhotra, medical doctors monitor progress usually to determine when or if the remedy will be diminished or stopped. “For some, with good way of life adjustments, prediabetes may even be reversed, decreasing the necessity for remedy over time. So, it’s a long-term, supportive strategy quite than only a medication to take briefly,” mentioned Malhotra.
Subsequently, Metformin is not only a diabetes drug; it may also be a prevention software for these at excessive threat for pre-diabetes. “The aim is to delay or keep away from diabetes altogether, and when used correctly, Metformin helps that journey,” mentioned Dr Ghody.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on info from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. At all times seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
