Phenformin

Products

Phenformin has been off the market in many countries since the late 1970s because of the potential adverse effects.

Structure and properties

Phenformin (C₁₀H₁₅N₅, M_r = 205.3 g/mol) is a biguanide with a similar structure to metformin. Phenformin was the first agent in this group of drugs.

Effects

Phenformin (ATC A10BA01) has antidiabetic and antihyperglycemic properties.

Indications

For the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Adverse effects

Phenformin induces lactic acidosis comparatively frequently and has therefore been withdrawn from the market in many countries.