From the Guidelines
Metformin is recommended for non-diabetic individuals with prediabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or overweight/obesity, as it can help with weight management, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, as evidenced by the most recent study in 2023 1. The benefits of metformin in non-diabetics include:
- Weight loss: Metformin has been associated with approximately 3% weight loss, and approximately 25% to 50% of participants achieve at least 5% weight loss 1.
- Improved insulin sensitivity: Metformin can improve insulin sensitivity, which can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes 1.
- Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes: Metformin has been shown to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in high-risk individuals, especially those with prediabetes or a history of gestational diabetes mellitus 1.
- Potential anti-aging properties: Some research suggests that metformin may have anti-aging properties by influencing cellular pathways related to longevity and reducing inflammation 1.
- Cardiovascular health benefits: Preliminary evidence indicates that metformin may have potential benefits for cardiovascular health, including reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality 1. It is essential to note that metformin should only be used under medical supervision, as it is not FDA-approved for these off-label uses in non-diabetics. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea, which can be minimized by starting with a low dose and gradually increasing, or by taking the medication with meals. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2023, provides the strongest evidence for the benefits of metformin in non-diabetics 1.
From the Research
Benefits of Metformin in Non-Diabetics
The benefits of metformin in non-diabetics can be seen in various studies, including those on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients and obese individuals. Some of the benefits include:
- Weight loss: Metformin has been shown to reduce body weight in non-diabetic individuals with obesity 2.
- Improvement in insulin resistance: Metformin can improve insulin sensitivity in non-diabetic individuals, particularly those with severe insulin resistance 2.
- Reduction in lipid levels: Some studies have found that metformin can reduce total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in non-diabetic individuals 3.
- Improvement in menstrual cycle: Metformin has been shown to improve menstrual cycle regularity in women with PCOS 4, 5.
- Reduction in androgen levels: Metformin can reduce free androgen index in women with PCOS 6, 5.
Comparison with Other Treatments
Metformin has been compared to other treatments, such as orlistat, in non-diabetic individuals. Some studies have found that:
- Orlistat may be more effective in reducing weight and lipid levels than metformin 4, 5.
- Metformin may be more effective in improving insulin sensitivity than orlistat 5.
- Combination therapy with metformin and lifestyle modification may be more effective in improving metabolic parameters than metformin alone 3.