M

Metformin

IUPAC: 3-(diaminomethylidene)-1,1-dimethylguanidine

C4H11N5 Organic Compounds CAS 657-24-9
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationC4H11N5
CAS Number657-24-9
Molecular Weight129.16
Melting Point223-226 °C
Boiling Point224.1ºC at 760 mmHg
SolubilityFreely soluble
AppearanceSolid
Also Known As3-(diaminomethylidene)-1,1-dimethylguanidine; 1,1-Dimethylbiguanide; N,N-dimethylimidodicarbonimidic diamide; Metiguanide; Dimethylbiguanide; Metformine; N,N-Dimethylbiguanide; Metformina; N1,N1-Dimethylbiguanide; N,N-Dimethyldiguanide
CategoryOrganic Compounds

What is Metformin?

Metformin is a member of the class of guanidines that is biguanide the carrying two methyl substituents at position 1. It has a role as a geroprotector, a hypoglycemic agent, a xenobiotic and an environmental contaminant. It is functionally related to a biguanide. It is a conjugate base of a metformin(1+).

Formula & Notation

C4H11N5

IUPAC Name: 3-(diaminomethylidene)-1,1-dimethylguanidine

Other Names / Synonyms: 3-(diaminomethylidene)-1,1-dimethylguanidine; 1,1-Dimethylbiguanide; N,N-dimethylimidodicarbonimidic diamide; Metiguanide; Dimethylbiguanide; Metformine; N,N-Dimethylbiguanide; Metformina; N1,N1-Dimethylbiguanide; N,N-Dimethyldiguanide

Properties & Characteristics

Appearance: Solid. Molecular formula: C4H11N5. Molecular weight: 129.16 g/mol. Boiling point: 224.1ºC at 760 mmHg. Melting point: 223-226 °C. Solubility: Freely soluble. LogP: -1.3.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point223-226 °C
Boiling Point224.1ºC at 760 mmHg
Molecular Weight129.16
SolubilityFreely soluble
AppearanceSolid

Uses & Applications

Used as an industrial feedstock, solvent, pharmaceutical intermediate, flavoring agent, or chemical building block.

Safety Information

Flammable or irritant. Many organic compounds are flammable liquids or vapours. Keep away from ignition sources. Consult SDS for specific hazard data.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Metformin
Formula C4H11N5
CAS Number 657-24-9
Molecular Weight 129.16
Synonyms 3-(diaminomethylidene)-1,1-dimethylguanidine; 1,1-Dimethylbiguanide; N,N-dimethylimidodicarbonimidic diamide; Metiguanide; Dimethylbiguanide; Metformine; N,N-Dimethylbiguanide; Metformina; N1,N1-Dimethylbiguanide; N,N-Dimethyldiguanide

Frequently Asked Questions

Metformin is a member of the class of guanidines that is biguanide the carrying two methyl substituents at position 1. It has a role as a geroprotector, a hypoglycemic agent, a xenobiotic and an environmental contaminant. It is functionally related to a biguanide. It is a conjugate base of a metformin(1+).

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Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.