METFORMIN HYDROCHLORIDE
CAS 657-24-9
Chemical Formula C₈H₁₉ClN₄
Molecular Weight 165.63 g/mol
Metformin Hydrochloride (Metformin HCl) is an oral antihyperglycemic drug commonly used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
It works by decreasing glucose production in the liver, decreasing intestinal absorption of glucose, and improving insulin sensitivity. It is widely prescribed as a first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes, often in combination with other antidiabetic medications.
Industrial Uses
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Pharmaceutical Industry :
- Diabetes Treatment: Metformin is primarily used to manage blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. It helps control blood glucose levels without causing a significant increase in insulin secretion.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Metformin is sometimes used off-label to treat PCOS, as it helps improve insulin sensitivity and regulate menstrual cycles.
- Weight Management: Metformin may aid in weight loss in individuals with type 2 diabetes or obesity by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing appetite.
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Veterinary Use :
- Animal Infections: Although not as common in veterinary medicine, metformin has been studied for its potential use in managing insulin resistance in animals, particularly in horses and pets with obesity or metabolic disorders.
Specifications
| CAS No | 657-24-9 |
|---|---|
| EC Number | 211-766-0 |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Molecular Weight | 165.63 g/mol |
| Molecular Formula | C₈H₁₉ClN₄ |
| Solubility | Soluble in water |
| Melting Point | ~223°C (decomposes) |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Assay (on anhydrous basis) | 98.0–102.0% |
| Loss on Drying | ≤0.5% |
| Heavy Metals | ≤10 ppm |
| pH (10% aqueous solution) | 6.0–7.5 |