Which of the following is a common use for biguanides?

Biguanides are primarily used as oral antihyperglycemic agents, specifically for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The most well-known biguanide is metformin, which works by increasing insulin sensitivity, decreasing hepatic glucose production, and enhancing peripheral glucose uptake. This mechanism helps lower blood glucose levels effectively without causing weight gain or hypoglycemia, making it a first-line treatment choice in many cases.

In contrast, insulin therapy is specifically aimed at providing exogenous insulin for individuals with type 1 diabetes or advanced type 2 diabetes where pancreatic function is significantly impaired. Beta-agonist therapy is typically associated with treating conditions such as asthma or COPD by relaxing bronchial smooth muscle, and blood thinners refer to anticoagulant medications used to prevent blood clots. Thus, the use of biguanides distinctly aligns with their role as oral antihyperglycemic agents.