Rational Use of Metformin in the Management of Diabetes Mellitus Type II

Author(s)

Rehman, A., Ayesha, T., Zaka, M., Gardezi, J. R.

Author's Affiliation

Abstract

Sugar or high blood glucose level, a lay man description of a very common progressive metabolic disorder clinically referred as Diabetes Mellitus (DM), is targeting quite many people belonging to a wide spectrum of socioeconomic status and age groups. A numerical estimation revealed that sufferings and complications from DM type II has increased from 6.9 million. Metformin, the safest oral anti-diabetic and first-line drug, belongs to class of drugs called “anti-hyperglycemic agents”. A study, through questionnaire based survey in Services hospital (Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism), was designed to assess the rational use of metformin in the treatment of DM Type II. Assessment forms were filled after interview of DM type II patients who were prescribed metformin. All factors contributing to rational use of metformin were considered as the right diagnosis, treatment plan, prescribing frequency, proper dose, at proper time, combination with other anti-diabetic drugs, compliance towards medication, follow up etc. It can be concluded that rational use of metformin is the safest choice for patients with early diagnosis of DM type II. The minor side effects, ranging from non-existent to significant, observed were gastrointestinal irritation, diarrhea, flatulence and indigestion. Patient compliance, food restrictions or specifications and healthy life style modifications help not only in controlling diabetes but also in improving the quality of life. Patient education, awareness campaigns and counseling either by doctor or pharmacist play remarkable role in recognition and exploration of vital aspects in combating disease.

Keywords

Diabetes Mellitus Type II, Metformin, Rational Use

Cite This Article

Rehman, A., Ayesha, T., Zaka, M., & Gardezi, J. R. (2014). Rational Use of Metformin in the Management of Diabetes Mellitus Type II. International Journal for Pharmaceutical Research Scholars (IJPRS), 3(4), 217-227.