Will you lose weight on metformin
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Weight Loss on Metformin: An Overview
Metformin and Weight Loss in Elderly Populations
Weight Reduction in Elderly Diabetics
Metformin, a first-line treatment for Type 2 diabetes, has been shown to induce a modest reduction in body weight among elderly patients. A meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled studies involving participants over 60 years old revealed an average weight loss of 2.23 kg in the metformin-treated groups compared to placebo groups. This weight reduction was accompanied by improvements in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels, suggesting additional cardiovascular benefits.
Metformin's Efficacy in Obese Adults and Children
Weight Loss in Adults
In adults, metformin has demonstrated consistent, albeit modest, weight loss effects. A systematic review of 14 adult studies found that metformin users experienced small but significant decreases in weight compared to placebo groups. The weight loss was maintained over various durations of treatment, indicating the drug's potential for long-term weight management.
Weight Loss in Children and Adolescents
Metformin also shows promise in pediatric populations. A meta-analysis of clinical trials involving children and adolescents reported significant reductions in BMI, waist circumference, and body weight following metformin treatment. However, the extent of weight loss was generally smaller in children compared to adults, possibly due to differences in adherence, dosage, and insulin status.
Metformin in Non-Diabetic Obese Populations
Weight Loss in Non-Diabetic Adults
Metformin has been evaluated for weight loss in non-diabetic overweight and obese individuals. A network meta-analysis of 34 trials involving 8461 participants found that metformin significantly decreased BMI and body weight across various subgroups. The most effective dosages for adults were identified as 3000 mg/day for six months and 1000 mg/day for shorter periods.
Weight Loss in Patients with Schizophrenia
In a study involving overweight outpatients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, metformin led to a mean weight loss of 3.0 kg over 16 weeks, compared to 1.0 kg in the placebo group. This suggests that metformin can be beneficial in reducing weight and improving metabolic parameters in this population.
Long-Term Weight Loss and Safety
Long-Term Efficacy and Safety
The Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study (DPPOS) highlighted the long-term benefits of metformin in weight management. Participants who adhered to metformin treatment maintained a significant weight loss over a 10-year period, with an average reduction of 2.0% in body weight compared to 0.2% in the placebo group. The study also confirmed the safety and tolerability of metformin, with gastrointestinal symptoms being the most common side effect, which generally declined over time.
Mechanisms of Weight Loss
Appetite Suppression
One of the mechanisms by which metformin induces weight loss is through appetite suppression. A study on diet-treated women with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) found that metformin reduced calorie intake and hunger ratings, leading to significant weight loss over a 24-week period. This appetite-suppressant effect was dose-dependent, with higher doses producing more pronounced results.
Conclusion
Metformin has been shown to induce modest but significant weight loss in various populations, including elderly diabetics, obese adults, children, and individuals with schizophrenia. The weight loss effects are generally more pronounced in adults and are maintained over long-term treatment. Metformin's safety profile and additional benefits, such as improved lipid profiles and reduced progression to Type 2 diabetes, make it a valuable option for weight management in both diabetic and non-diabetic populations.
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