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Metformin

Then vs. Now: The History of Metformin, a Mainstay in Diabetes Treatment

In 1918, people discovered a plant that could lower blood sugar in animals.

Lauren Smith, MASanjai Sinha, MD
Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MD
Updated on September 13, 2025
Reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MD | September 13, 2025

Metformin is a common medication for Type 2 diabetes. In this video, find out how metformin was discovered, what it has been used for throughout history, and what metformin can help treat today.

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Lauren Smith, MA
Written by:
Lauren Smith, MA
Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Sanjai Sinha, MD
Reviewed by:
Sanjai Sinha, MD
Sanjai Sinha, MD, is a board-certified physician with over 20 years of experience. He specializes in internal medicine.

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