Diet

What Is Metformin? Effects and Side Effects of a Classic Drug That Supports Sugar Metabolism

Metformin has a long history of use worldwide as a first-line drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is known for its action in suppressing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity, and it is a drug that is less likely to cause weight gain. In recent years, its mild weight loss effect and synergistic effects when used in combination with GLP-1 drugs have also attracted attention. This page provides a detailed explanation of the target effects, correct usage, and side effects.

  • ✓A drug with an extensive safety record, used globally in the treatment of type 2 diabetes
  • ✓It suppresses glucose production in the liver and improves insulin sensitivity, making weight gain less likely.
  • ✓This drug has a different mechanism of action than GLP-1 drugs (such as Mounjaro and Rybelsus), and synergistic effects can be expected when used in combination.
  • ✓It's offered at a relatively accessible price point and is chosen as an option even before trying GLP-1 drugs.
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What is Metformin?

Metformin is one of the oldest and most commonly prescribed medications for type 2 diabetes.
Recently, metformin has once again garnered attention for its potential use as an 'anti-aging drug.'

Metformin is a historically established medication widely used as a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes. It is also prescribed off-label to reduce the risk of developing diabetes in individuals with prediabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Recently, due to its weight-loss effects, some people are taking it for a moderate dieting effect.

How does Metformin work?

Metformin works to stabilize and lower blood glucose levels in the body. It does this in several ways:

  • It reduces the amount of glucose produced by the liver.

  • It decreases the amount of glucose absorbed by the intestines.

  • It makes the body's tissues more sensitive to insulin, allowing cells to better absorb and utilize glucose from the blood.

Lowering blood sugar has numerous health benefits.
It helps with weight loss, maintaining healthy blood pressure, and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Is it true that Metformin can slow down aging and extend life expectancy?

Originally, it was found that patients using metformin for diabetes had better life expectancy and cardiovascular risk outcomes than those not taking it.
Based on these findings, researchers have investigated whether metformin can slow down aging, prevent age-related health conditions, and extend life expectancy. The results have shown that it reduces the risk of age-related diseases such as cancer and heart disease in diabetic patients.

  • May improve metabolic markers in older adults, such as blood sugar levels, insulin levels, and DNA repair.

  • Reduces inflammation, which is known to influence the aging process.

  • Extends the lifespan of mice.

Researchers still don't know exactly how metformin affects the human aging process. It is thought that metformin's ability to lower blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, and affect mitochondria in cells may be involved.

Metformin and brain function

There is some observational evidence suggesting that metformin may reduce the risk of stroke. It may also help improve recovery after a stroke.

However, the evidence is mixed and not yet clear regarding whether metformin can protect an aging brain. Future research is highly anticipated.

Is metformin used off-label for anti-aging?

Metformin is not currently recommended or approved for its effects on improving age-related health conditions, but it is actively being researched for this purpose.

Most research on metformin has been conducted in animal models such as mice. However, a large-scale clinical trial called the TAME (Targeting Aging with Metformin) study is currently underway to investigate the anti-aging effects of metformin.

This study is investigating whether people aged 65 to 79 who take metformin delay the onset of age-related diseases such as heart disease, dementia, and cancer. The TAME study is scheduled to run for six years, so it will be quite some time before results are available. We look forward to seeing the results!

What are the other benefits of Metformin?

Metformin is currently an approved drug for type 2 diabetes. However, in the US, it is prescribed off-label for many conditions.

  • Prediabetes

  • PCOS

  • Gestational diabetes

  • Weight gain associated with antipsychotic medication
    are some examples.

Why is metformin called a "miracle drug"?

Metformin is called a "miracle drug" based on early research results, as animal studies and small-scale human studies have shown it may have the following benefits:

  • Cancer prevention

  • Anti-aging effects

Cardioprotective effects

However, confirmation has not yet been obtained, and future large-scale research is anticipated.

Metformin side effects and risks

Common side effects of metformin include:

  • Nausea

  • Diarrhea

  • Bloating

  • Stomach pain

  • Headaches
    Additionally, a rare but serious side effect called "lactic acidosis" has been reported with metformin.

Conclusion

Metformin is garnering attention not only as a diabetes drug but also as a weight-loss drug and a drug with anti-aging properties.

References

American Federation for Aging Research. (nd) TAME Study.
Bai, B., et al. (2021).Metformin: a new weapon against inflammation. Frontiers in Pharmacology.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q Can it be used with Ozempic or Mounjaro?
A



In many cases, it can be used in combination, and the doctor will make that decision during the examination. It is also considered as an option when GLP-1 alone is not effective enough.

Q The diarrhea side effect is difficult to deal with.
A

It may be possible to alleviate these issues by taking medication after meals or by gradually increasing the dosage. Please consult your doctor.

Q When is the best time to drink it?
A



It is generally taken after meals. Start with a small amount and gradually increase it while monitoring gastrointestinal symptoms.

Q I have kidney problems; can I use this?
A

If you have kidney dysfunction, your risk of lactic acidosis increases, so we will confirm your condition in detail during your medical examination before use.

Q How much does it cost?
A

Compared to GLP-1 agonists, the price range is relatively affordable. Please see our pricing page for details.