Metformin
Also known as: Glucophage, Fortamet, Glumetza
An AMPK activator commonly used alongside GLP-1 peptides and metabolic peptides to enhance glucose control and longevity outcomes.
Beginner Basics
Plain-English guide to Metformin
What it does
Metformin helps your body use insulin more effectively and controls blood sugar levels. Researchers use it to support weight management and improve how your cells produce energy.
Typical dose
500-2000 mg taken 1-3 times per day by mouth (not injection, despite the subcutaneous note in source data-metformin is an oral medication).
When to inject
Take with meals to reduce stomach upset. If using extended-release form, take once daily, typically with dinner.
Storage
Keep the dry powder in a cool, dry place away from light. Once mixed into a solution, store in the refrigerator and use within the timeframe specified by your supplier.
First-timer tip
Start with the lowest dose and take it with food-this cuts down on nausea and lets your body adjust before increasing the dose.
On This Page
Research Status
FDA-approved
For research purposes only. Not approved for human use. Not medical advice.
Research Areas
Side Effects
Occurs in 20-30% of users, especially with immediate-release formulations. Usually resolves within 1-2 weeks. Taking with food significantly reduces incidence. Extended-release formulations are better tolerated. Gradual dose titration minimizes GI effects.
Reported in 3-5% of users. Usually mild and self-resolving. More common with higher doses. Does not require discontinuation.
Occurs in 10-30% of long-term users due to reduced B12 absorption in the terminal ileum. Annual B12 monitoring recommended. Supplementation may be needed. Risk increases with duration of use and higher doses.
Incidence <1 per 1000 patient-years in patients with normal renal function. Risk increases significantly with renal impairment (eGFR <30), acute illness, dehydration, or contrast dye procedures. Requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include muscle pain, difficulty breathing, unusual fatigue.
May occur with long-term use due to reduced folate absorption. Less common than B12 deficiency. Periodic monitoring recommended, especially in women of childbearing age.
Metformin alone does not cause hypoglycemia. Risk increases only when combined with insulin or insulin secretagogues (sulfonylureas). Rare when used as monotherapy.
Risk increases in patients with pre-existing renal disease, acute illness, dehydration, or contrast dye exposure. Renal function should be assessed before initiation and monitored periodically. Contraindicated in severe renal impairment.
Reported in 1-3% of users. Usually mild and self-resolving. May be related to initial metabolic changes.
Dosing Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose range | 500-2000 mg |
Frequency, timing and route - members only | |
Research disclaimer
Figures drawn from published research literature and community logs. Not clinical recommendations. Consult a qualified professional. Research use only.
Reconstitution Guide
Do not use saline or bacteriostatic saline, use only bacteriostatic water for reconstitution
Do not shake the vial vigorously; gentle swirling prevents peptide degradation
Discard immediately if the solution appears cloudy, discolored, or contains visible particles
Use within 30 days of reconstitution when stored at 2-8°C
Do not freeze the reconstituted solution; freezing may denature the peptide
Use the PeptideVolt reconstitution calculator for your exact concentration
Molecular and Pharmacological Data
| Molecular weight | 129.16 g/mol |
| Half-life | 4-9 hours (immediate-release); 7-16 hours (extended-release) |
Metformin is an oral biguanide that activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a master metabolic regulator. It improves insulin sensitivity by reducing hepatic glucose production and enhancing peripheral glucose uptake. Metformin also modulates gut microbiota and mitochondrial function, contributing to improved metabolic health and potential longevity benefits.
Track your Metformin research
Free account. No credit card required.
Recent Research
In vitro Bioequivalence Analysis of Generic Metformin Hydrochloride Film-coated Tablets.
Molecularly imprinted magnetic covalent organic framework for selective extraction of metformin in health products.
Pro-apoptotic effects of metformin and cisplatin in non-small cell Lung Cancer: Modulation of apoptosis-related genes and LncRNAs.
Source: PubMed / NCBI. Updated daily. Articles are listed for research reference only.
Browse the Research Library
40+ peptide profiles with mechanism summaries, dosing data, and reconstitution guides.
View all peptidesResearch Use Only. All content on this page is provided for informational and educational purposes related to scientific research. Metformin is not approved for human use by the FDA or any equivalent regulatory body. This is not medical advice. Do not use any substance discussed here for therapeutic, diagnostic, or preventative purposes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The Peptide Volt does not endorse the use of any research chemicals. 18+ only.