Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 21, 2026

05:59
High-Throughput Small Molecule Drug Screening For Age-Related Sleep Disorders Using Drosophila melanogaster
Published on: October 20, 2023
Metformin and sleep disorders.
Somsri Wiwanitkit1, Viroj Wiwanitkit
1Wiwanitkit House, Bangkhae, Bangkok, Thailand.
Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism
|June 16, 2012
Summary
Metformin, a common diabetes medication, can negatively impact sleep quality. This review details the relationship between metformin use and sleep disturbances.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Sleep Medicine
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Metformin is a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes.
- Sleep disturbances are a common complaint among patients taking metformin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific literature on metformin and its association with sleep problems.
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms and clinical implications of metformin-induced sleep deterioration.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of scientific databases (e.g., PubMed, Scopus).
- Analysis of studies investigating metformin's effects on sleep parameters.
- Synthesis of findings related to sleep quality, duration, and disturbances.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests a link between metformin use and impaired sleep quality.
- Potential mechanisms include effects on neurotransmitters, circadian rhythm, and gastrointestinal side effects.
- Sleep problems may affect patient adherence and overall health outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Metformin's impact on sleep is a significant, often overlooked, side effect.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms and develop mitigation strategies.
- Clinicians should consider sleep quality when prescribing metformin and monitoring patients.
Related Concept Videos
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Biguanides and Glitazones
Biguanides, particularly metformin (Glucophage), are insulin sensitizers that enhance glucose uptake, thereby reducing insulin resistance. Unlike sulfonylureas, metformin doesn't prompt insulin secretion, which helps to curb hypoglycemia risk. Metformin is beneficial in treating conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome due to its insulin-resistance reduction capability. The drug's primary action involves curtailing hepatic gluconeogenesis, a significant contributor to high blood glucose levels...
Sedatives and Hypnotics Drugs: Miscellaneous Agents
Sedatives and hypnotics encompass a wide range of substances, each with its unique mechanism of action, uses, and potential adverse effects.
Melatonin congeners like ramelteon (Rozerem) and tasimelteon (Hetlioz) selectively bind to melatonin receptors (MT1 and MT2) and thus mimic the actions of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Tasimelteon is primarily used for non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder, common in blind patients. They are also used to treat conditions like insomnia...
Melatonin congeners like ramelteon (Rozerem) and tasimelteon (Hetlioz) selectively bind to melatonin receptors (MT1 and MT2) and thus mimic the actions of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Tasimelteon is primarily used for non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder, common in blind patients. They are also used to treat conditions like insomnia...
Sleepwalking and Sleep Talking
Somnambulism, commonly known as sleepwalking, involves individuals engaging in activities ranging from simple walking to more complex behaviors such as driving. Sleepwalking typically occurs during the slow-wave sleep stages 3 and 4 early in the night when the person is not dreaming, contradicting the myth that sleepwalkers are acting out their dreams.
Factors that increase the likelihood of sleepwalking include sleep deprivation and alcohol consumption. Contrary to common beliefs, it is safe...
Factors that increase the likelihood of sleepwalking include sleep deprivation and alcohol consumption. Contrary to common beliefs, it is safe...
Management of Insomnia
The sleep cycle, an integral part of human health, consists of several stages with distinct characteristics and functions. It begins with a transition from wakefulness to sleep, known as the light sleep phase, followed by the restorative deep sleep phase, essential for physical recovery and growth. The cycle concludes with the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) phase, characterized by high brain activity and vivid dreaming. Insomnia, a prevalent sleep disorder, involves difficulty falling asleep, staying...
Insomnia
Insomnia is a prevalent sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings during the night, and waking up too early without being able to return to sleep. People with insomnia often experience these disruptions at least three nights a week for at least one month. Chronic insomnia, which lasts for at least three months, can lead to increased anxiety, which in turn can worsen sleep difficulties, creating a cycle of sleeplessness and stress.
Multiple factors contribute...
Multiple factors contribute...
Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Substance use disorders involve a pattern of using drugs more extensively than intended and continuing use despite harmful consequences. This includes legal substances like alcohol and nicotine, as well as illegal drugs. These disorders often involve both physical and psychological dependence, reflecting compulsive use of substances that significantly alter thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, contributing to a major public health issue.
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...

