Metformin in Diabetes and Beyond: Therapeutic Mechanisms, Lactic Acidosis, Organ-Specific Effects, and Nanotechnology-Based Delivery Strategies

Abstract

Biguanides, especially metformin, are essential for managing type 2 diabetes, a major global health concern. They show favorable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles and have been in clinical use for decades, although their therapeutic mechanisms have yet to be fully elucidated beyond their primary role in hepatic glucose production. Recent investigations have highlighted the significant roles of the gastrointestinal tract, gut microbiota, and tissue-resident immune cells in modulating metformin efficacy. Metformin is of interest for repurposing across various disorders, including cancer, aging, inflammation, and microbial infections. These manifestations are a consequence of their pleiotropic molecular effects and of treatment benefit, which depend on dose or duration. Nevertheless, the associated lactic acidosis, as well as other rare and serious adverse effects, requires a full knowledge of their toxicity profile and organ responses. Novel nanotechnology-based strategies can provide new opportunities to improve the therapeutic index of biguanides by enhancing bioavailability, increasing tissue specificity, and reducing systemic toxicity. In this review, we have examined the complex pharmacology of biguanides, discussed organ-specific therapeutic and toxicological effects, and critically evaluated targeted delivery to optimize their clinical utility through nanotechnology interventions.

Keywords

Biguanides / Metformin / Type 2 diabetes / Gut microbiota / Lactic acidosis / Nanoformulations / Targeted drug delivery / Global health

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