Metformin vs. Insulin: A Drug Comparison for Type 2 Diabetes

Summary

This project compares two of the most widely used therapeutic drugs for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Metformin and Insulin. Diabetes Mellitus affects over 38 million people in the United States alone. The condition occurs when a person has high blood glucose levels, also known as hyperglycemia, due to built up insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production. The poster talks about how in healthy bodies, insulin signaling regulates glucose uptake by cells. In individuals with Type 2 Diabetes, metformin or insulin are two different drug options to fix the insulin signaling process.

Metformin works by activating the AMPK pathway which reduces gluconeogenesis and improves insulin sensitivity. Insulin works by binding directly to insulin receptors which leads to GLUT4 translocation and an increase in glucose uptake. The poster also has a side by side comparison of the pharmacokinetics, administration, onset of action, side effects, cost, accessibility, and suitability for special populations for each drug. Metformin is usually used as the first line of therapy for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus due to its low cost and easy administration. Insulin on the other hand is used for many types of Diabetes Mellitus, but is a more expensive option that requires training to self administer. In some cases, metformin and insulin can be used together in order to control the condition.

Diagram to help support an explanation of the mechanism of action for Metformin. Taken from a report describing the metformin's cellular pathways. (Source)

Video Presentation

Impact Statement

Dheesha Sriram

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My name is Dheesha Sriram. I am a rising junior at Woodinville High School, WA. I joined Elio Academy to explore my interests in medical science and gain a better understanding of how biology connects to real world medicine. This program gave me the opportunity to study Diabetes Mellitus and its treatment options in detail. Over the course of the program I researched and learned how different therapeutic drugs work in the body. I learned about the different ways signaling pathways and protein interactions work on a cellular level. To complete the program I created a research poster comparing two drugs, insulin and metformin, explaining the molecular mechanisms and clinical uses of each. This experience not only helped strengthen my scientific knowledge and inspired me to continue to pursue medicine, but it also allowed me to join a community. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have had such a supportive mentor and peers throughout the course.

Student Reflection

By: Dheesha Sriram. The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Elio Academy.