Metformin: the past, presence, and future

Abstract

The authors trace the history of metformin and its clinical use to the present day. Recent insights into its mode of action and latest data from experimental and clinical medicine have unraveled novel properties of metformin, which may be particularly useful in the treatment of conditions other than diabetes. Results of ongoing clinical trials will show whether or not the hypoglycemic effect of metformin will become only one of the many to be employed in clinical practice.