Medical uses Metformin is used to lower blood glucose in those with type 2 diabetes. [15] It has also been used to help with metabolic abnormalities in polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), and as a second-line agent for infertility in those with PMOS. [15][34] Metformin is a first-line treatment used for type 2 diabetes in adults and children 10 years and older to help improve blood sugar levels. It is also used off-label to improve symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and other conditions. Metformin is used together with proper diet and exercise to treat high blood sugar levels caused by type 2 diabetes. This medicine reduces the absorption of sugar from the intestines, reduces the release of stored sugar from the liver, and helps your body use sugar better. Metformin is used to treat type 2 diabetes and is the preferred therapy for people with type 2 diabetes who do not have any contraindications to using metformin (such as kidney disease, metabolic acidosis, or poor liver function). What is metformin used for? Metformin is used to help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Metformin may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health. Learn about side effects, how it's taken, and more of metformin. It's a generic prescription drug that's used to help manage blood sugar levels in adults and some children with type 2 diabetes. Metformin is a prescription drug used for treating type 2 diabetes in adults and children. Side effects, storage and dosing information, drug interactions, and pregnancy safety are provided. Metformin is a common treatment for diabetes. But it can cause digestive problems and other side effects. Learn more about the uses and side effects here. Metformin is a type 2 oral medication in the biguanide class of drugs. It lowers blood glucose by lowering the amount of glucose produced by the liver. It is often used as a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes. Metformin is approved for adults and children 10 years and older with type 2 diabetes. Metformin is used alone or with other medications, including insulin, to treat type 2 diabetes (condition in which the body does not use insulin normally and, therefore, cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood).