Metformin and Children

Metformin (Glucophage^®) is licensed to treat diabetes. The prescription drug is used for lowering blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It works by decreasing the amount of sugar produced by the liver, limiting the amount of sugar absorbed into the body from the diet, and making insulin receptors more sensitive (helping the body respond better to insulin).

Not only can adults use metformin, children who are at least 10 years old can also use this medication as part of diabetes treatment. The long-acting form of the drug (metformin ER) is approved for use in people who are 17 years old or older.

(Click Metformin Uses for more information about metformin and children, and to learn about possible off-label uses for this medication.)