What is better Metformin or Siophor for diabetes, for weight loss

If you suffer from diabetes mellitus, then you have probably heard about the drugs Metformin and Siofor. These drugs are analogues, since they contain the same active ingredient — metformin. Metformin is a sugar—reducing agent that helps control blood glucose levels and improve metabolism. Some obese patients try to use the drug for weight loss, which is unacceptable. So these drugs are intended for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. If you have diabetes and your endocrinologist has prescribed you Metformin or Siofor, then drink to your health, if not, then do not harm yourself. These drugs are not harmless chewing gum. There is a downside to everything. You need to lose weight by reducing the amount of food consumed, reducing the size of the stomach, but not by chemistry. And so, which of these drugs is better and how do they differ from each other? In this article, we will try to answer these questions and help you make the right choice.

Composition of preparations

As already mentioned, Metformin and Siophor contain the same active ingredient — metformin. However, they may differ in the amount of metformin in one tablet, in the form of release (regular or prolonged tablets) and in the composition of excipients.

Metformin and Siofor are drugs that belong to the biguanide group and are used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus and prediabetic condition, as well as to reduce body weight in overweight or obese patients. The main active ingredient of these drugs is metformin hydrochloride, which has a sugar-lowering effect, improving the utilization of glucose by the body's cells and suppressing its formation in the liver. In addition, metformin helps to reduce appetite and calorie intake, which contributes to weight loss. Metformin and Siofor are available in tablet form with different dosages of metformin: 500 mg, 850 mg or 1000 mg. In addition to metformin, the preparations include various excipients such as starch, povidone, magnesium stearate and others. They ensure the correct shape, color, solubility and stability of the tablets. Siophor also contains hypromellose, a polymer that forms a protective film on the surface of the tablet and slows down the release of metformin in the stomach. This helps to reduce irritation of the gastric mucosa and prevent nausea and vomiting, which are common side effects of metformin. Thus, the composition of the drugs Metformin and Siofor is the same in active substance, but different in auxiliary components.

Action on the body

Metformin and Siophor act on the body in the same way, since they have the same active ingredient. Metformin belongs to the group of biguanides — sugar-reducing agents that do not stimulate the production of insulin, but improve its effect on cells. We will list the effects on the body that the manufacturer promises us, but in some places we will add our comments. In fact, patients who took metformin come to us to lose weight and it did not help them. Metformin should have the following effects on the body:

• Reduces blood glucose levels by reducing its production in the liver and increasing its consumption by muscles and other tissues.
• Reduces the level of insulin in the blood by improving its binding to receptors on cells and increasing their sensitivity to it.
• Reduces the level of glycosylated hemoglobin (GbA1C), an indicator reflecting the average blood glucose level over the past 2-3 months.
• Reduces the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood by reducing their synthesis in the liver and increasing their cleavage in the muscles.
• It slightly reduces appetite and food intake due to the effect on the centers of hunger and satiety in the hypothalamus.
• It does not reduce body weight by reducing adipose tissue and increasing muscle tissue.
• It doubtfully improves the condition of blood vessels by preventing oxidative stress, inflammation and sclerosis.

Metformin and Siofor are used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus, as well as to prevent its development in people at increased risk (prediabetes, obesity, heredity). In addition, these drugs may be useful in the treatment of other metabolic disorders, such as:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome is a condition in which the ovaries contain many cysts that cause menstrual irregularities, infertility, excessive hair growth on the face and body, acne and obesity. Metformin helps to normalize ovarian function, promotes ovulation and pregnancy.
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Comparative table

The main differences between the drugs are

Metformin and Siofor are two different trade names for the same drug containing metformin hydrochloride as an active ingredient. They have the same mechanism of action, indications, contraindications and side effects. The main difference between them is the country of origin and the price. Metformin is produced by various pharmaceutical companies in Russia, India, Germany and other countries. Siofor is an original drug that is manufactured by the German company Berlin—Chemie AG/Menarini Group. Usually, original drugs are of higher quality and safety than generic drugs (analogues), but they are also more expensive.

Which is better to choose Metformin or Xiophore

The choice between Metformin and Siofor depends on several factors, such as the purpose of use, the presence of concomitant diseases, individual tolerance and financial possibilities. If you want to use these drugs to treat diabetes mellitus or reduce the risk of its development, then you need to consult a doctor for the appointment of the optimal dose and control of blood glucose levels. If you want to take these weight loss medications, then you should know that this is not a panacea and not a substitute for a healthy diet and physical activity. In addition, you should be careful about side effects and contraindications that may be dangerous to your health. In any case, before starting to take any of these drugs, you need to consult with your doctor and do the necessary tests. In general, if you do not have allergies or intolerance to metformin, then you can choose any of these drugs based on your budget and preferences. If you want to get a better and safer product, then you'd better choose Siofor. If you want to save money, then Metformin is suitable for you. None of these drugs are suitable for weight loss. Lose weight naturally, and if it doesn't work out, then consider the option of bariatric surgery.

Comparison of physician reviews

Many patients hope that Metformin or Siofor will help them lose weight, as these drugs reduce appetite and accelerate metabolism. However, doctors warn that these drugs are not weight loss products, but only help to control blood sugar levels. In order to lose weight, you need to follow a proper diet and engage in physical activity. In addition, some patients may not feel any effect on weight from the use of Metformin or Siofor, as they compensate for a decrease in appetite by increasing the consumption of sweet or fatty foods. Therefore, you should not count on the miraculous effect of these drugs on the figure.

Comparison of customer reviews

Customer reviews of Metformin and Siofor also vary depending on the purpose of use, dosage, duration of administration and individual reaction to the drugs. Some buyers are satisfied with the results of these drugs in the treatment of diabetes mellitus, noting an improvement in well-being, normalization of blood glucose levels. Other customers complain about the side effects of these drugs, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, metallic taste in the mouth, allergic reactions, weakness, dizziness, etc. Some buyers do not notice any effect from these drugs or consider it insignificant. Buyers also compare Metformin and Siofor in terms of price and quality, coming to different conclusions.

Let's summarize

Metformin and Siofor are two drugs based on metformin hydrochloride that are used to treat and prevent type 2 diabetes, but not for weight loss. These drugs have the same mechanism of action, indications, contraindications and side effects. The main difference between them is the country of origin and the price. Siofor is an original drug that is manufactured in Germany and costs more. Metformin is a generic (analog) that is produced in different countries and costs less. The choice between drugs depends on individual preferences, financial possibilities and doctor's recommendations. In any case, before starting to take any of these drugs, it is necessary to consult a doctor and make the necessary tests. It is also necessary to monitor blood glucose levels, adhere to a healthy lifestyle and not abuse these drugs for weight loss. We hope that our article has helped you to learn more about Metformin and Siofor, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as gave advice on the choice and use of these drugs.