KNOWRIDGE
When someone is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, one of the biggest decisions they face is how to manage their blood sugar levels. Two of the most common treatments are insulin and metformin.
Both are effective, but they work in different ways, have different side effects, and are usually used at different stages of the disease. Understanding how each one works and what the research says can help people make informed choices with their healthcare provider.
Metformin is usually the first medication prescribed for type 2 diabetes. It is a pill taken by mouth, and it works by helping the body use insulin more effectively. It reduces how much sugar the liver releases into the blood and improves the way muscles absorb sugar.
Metformin doesn’t cause weight gain—in fact, some people lose a little weight—and it has a low risk of causing dangerously low blood sugar levels, also known as hypoglycemia. These benefits make it a favorite starting point for doctors and patients alike.