Metformin weight loss before and after
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Metformin and Weight Loss: Before and After
Introduction to Metformin and Weight Loss
Metformin, a medication primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes, has been observed to have weight loss effects in various populations. This article synthesizes findings from multiple studies to provide a comprehensive overview of the impact of metformin on weight loss before and after treatment.
Metformin's Effect on Body Mass Index (BMI)
General Population
A meta-analysis of 21 trials involving 1004 participants revealed that metformin treatment resulted in a modest reduction in BMI, with an average decrease of approximately one unit (WMD -0.98; 95% CI, -1.25 to -0.72). The most significant reductions were observed in individuals with simple obesity and those with a baseline BMI greater than 35 kg/m².
Children and Adults
A systematic review of studies lasting six months or more found that both children and adults experienced weight loss with metformin treatment. In children, more than half of the studies reported a greater reduction in BMI compared to controls, although no further improvement was noted beyond six months. In adults, metformin consistently led to small but significant weight reductions across various studies.
Specific Populations
Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)
A pilot randomized trial comparing metformin to placebo in postpartum women with GDM found no significant difference in weight loss between the two groups after six weeks. Both groups lost approximately 6 kg, and less than 50% of women achieved their prepregnancy weight.
Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
In a study involving obese women with PCOS who had previously shown poor response to metformin, the addition of liraglutide to metformin treatment resulted in significant weight loss. The combined treatment group lost an average of 6.5 kg, compared to 3.8 kg with liraglutide alone and 1.2 kg with metformin alone.
Elderly Population
A meta-analysis focusing on individuals over 60 years old found that metformin treatment led to a small but significant reduction in body weight (average decrease of 2.23 kg) and improvements in cholesterol levels. This suggests that metformin is a safe option for weight management in the elderly, with potential cardiovascular benefits.
Patients with Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder
In a double-blind study of overweight outpatients with chronic schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, metformin treatment resulted in a modest weight loss of 3 kg over 16 weeks, compared to 1 kg in the placebo group. Metformin also improved BMI, triglyceride levels, and hemoglobin A1c.
Type 2 Diabetes Patients
A study on patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity found that metformin reduced food intake and induced weight loss. Participants treated with metformin lost significantly more weight (up to 8 kg) compared to those on placebo.
Long-Term Effects and Safety
Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study (DPPOS)
The DPPOS, which followed participants for up to 15 years, demonstrated that metformin use was associated with sustained weight loss and reduced waist circumference. The weight loss was directly related to adherence to metformin treatment . This long-term study confirmed the safety and tolerability of metformin, with gastrointestinal symptoms being the most common side effects.
Conclusion
Metformin has been shown to induce modest weight loss across various populations, including children, adults, the elderly, and individuals with specific conditions such as PCOS and schizophrenia. The extent of weight loss varies, but it is generally modest and more pronounced with higher adherence to the medication. Long-term studies confirm the safety and sustained benefits of metformin for weight management. Further research is needed to establish its efficacy as a dedicated weight loss drug.
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