Phenformin

Phenformin Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Food Interaction and all others data.

A biguanide hypoglycemic agent with actions and uses similar to those of metformin. Although it is generally considered to be associated with an unacceptably high incidence of lactic acidosis, often fatal, it is still available in some countries. (From Martindale, The Extra Pharmacopoeia, 30th ed, p290)

Used to treat diabetes, phenformin is a biguanide (contains 2 guanidino groups) hypoglycemic agent with actions and uses similar to those of metformin (Glucophage). Both drugs work by (1) decreasing the absorption of glucose by the intestines, (2) decreasing the production of glucose in the liver, and by (3) increasing the body's ability to use insulin more effectively. More specifically, phenformin improves glycemic control by improving insulin sensitivity. Phenformin is generally considered to be associated with an unacceptably high incidence of actic acidosis. In general biguanides should be used only in stable type II diabetics who are free of liver, kidney and cardiovascular problems and who cannot be controlled with diet.

Trade Name Phenformin
Generic Phenformin
Phenformin Other Names Fenformin, Fenformina, Phenformin, Phenformine, Phenforminum
Type
Formula C10H15N5
Weight Average: 205.2596
Monoisotopic: 205.132745505
Groups Approved, Investigational, Withdrawn
Therapeutic Class
Manufacturer
Available Country
Last Updated: September 19, 2023 at 7:00 am
Phenformin
Phenformin

Uses

For the reatment of type II diabetes mellitus.

How Phenformin works

Phenformin binds to the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). AMPK is an ultra-sensitive cellular energy sensor that monitors energy consumption and down-regulates ATP-consuming processes when activated. The biguanide phenformin has been shown to independently decrease ion transport processes, influence cellular metabolism and activate AMPK. Phenformin's hypoglycemic activity is related the effect it has in activating AMPK and fooling insulin sensitive cells into thinking that insulin levels are low and causing the body to use glucose as if in a state of low caloric consumption. This drug also seems to inhibit several varients of ATP-sensitive potassium channels (namely the receptor subtype Kir6.1).

Innovators Monograph

You find simplified version here Phenformin

*** Taking medicines without doctor's advice can cause long-term problems.
Share