Key takeaways
Alogliptin (Nesina) and metformin (Glumetza, Riomet) are both medications used to treat Type 2 diabetes, but they work differently and have distinct characteristics. Alogliptin is a DPP-4 inhibitor that helps insulin stay in your body longer and reduces sugar production, while metformin is a biguanide that lowers the amount of sugar your body makes and absorbs, and helps you use insulin better. Metformin is often the first-choice medication for diabetes and is known for its strong effect on lowering blood sugar and A1C levels, whereas alogliptin is not typically a first-choice treatment. Metformin can cause stomach side effects like diarrhea and nausea, especially if taken without food, while alogliptin may cause headaches and symptoms of the common cold. Metformin is available in both short-acting and long-acting forms, including a liquid option, whereas alogliptin is taken once daily by mouth. Both medications are available as generics, but metformin is more likely to cause stomach upset and requires careful monitoring if you have kidney issues.
