Tropical Weight Loss
Tropical Weight Loss
Photo: Andres Ayrton
Is metformin safe? Recent research has also demonstrated that a low dose of metformin (1000-1500mg/day) can promote weight loss in non-diabetic individuals.
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Read More »Have you considered clinical trials for Weight management? We make it easy for you to participate in a clinical trial for Weight management, and get access to the latest treatments not yet widely available - and be a part of finding a cure. Check your eligibility Can metformin help you lose weight? Obesity is a serious global health concern, especially in the U.S. where 42.4% of Americans were classified as obese between 2017-2018.³ This disease results in a cascade of other health problems such as cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and type-2 diabetes. It can also lead to various types of cancer, which contribute to the deaths of many Americans every year. Metformin is a first-line oral medication commonly prescribed to patients with type 2 diabetes or prediabetic patients with at least one cardiovascular disease risk factor, such as hypertension (high blood pressure).⁴ ⁵ Not only does metformin reduce blood glucose levels, but it can also induce moderate weight loss. This effect has been observed in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals.⁶ ⁷ Although metformin has been shown to promote weight loss, just how it works remains unclear. Medical researchers have suggested that it may affect how the brain regulates appetite and food intake.⁶ Other studies have examined metformin’s effect on peripheral brain pathways, such as fat storage, hormone sensitivity, and body clock. Metformin does not cause immediate weight loss. Instead, weight loss occurs gradually over a long period of time. A long-term diabetes prevention program (DPP) study observed weight-loss effects from metformin use over a period of up to two years, with participants losing an average of approximately six pounds after the first year and just under five pounds after two years.² Over the next ten years, researchers followed up with patients who had responded well to metformin treatment, which showed they had maintained their weight loss.² In a shorter study, metformin use was similarly found to have resulted in weight loss of up to 12 pounds in overweight or obese non-diabetic patients.⁷ These studies highlight how the effect metformin has on weight loss differs from person to person.² Can metformin help you lose weight quickly? Since metformin does not cause immediate weight loss, combining it with a healthy diet and regular exercise is an optimal approach to speed up the weight loss process.² Another DPP study that followed up with patients taking metformin or implementing intensive lifestyle changes for almost three years after the study ended observed an average weight loss ranging between five to 12 pounds.⁸ A longer-term study showed that a significant proportion of patients taking metformin or those undergoing intensive lifestyle changes achieved weight loss of more than 5% over a 15-year period.⁹ Therefore, combining both metformin use and a healthy lifestyle may promote quicker and more significant weight loss. Is metformin safe? Clinical studies have not shown any major safety concerns associated with metformin use. In fact, there is limited evidence indicating starting treatment at a low dose of 500mg/day and increasing it slowly over time may mitigate any gastrointestinal side effects associated with metformin treatment.¹⁰ If the dose is tolerable, it can be slowly increased up to 2000mg/day.¹⁰ Recent research has also demonstrated that a low dose of metformin (1000-1500mg/day) can promote weight loss in non-diabetic individuals.¹¹ If you experience any side effects, you should consult your healthcare professional to discuss whether metformin is right for you.
Aerobic exercise (cardio) is an effective way to improve your health and burn calories. Studies also show that it's one of the most effective forms...
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Aerobic exercise (cardio) is an effective way to improve your health and burn calories. Studies also show that it's one of the most effective forms...
Read More »What are the risks with metformin? Despite metformin being a relatively safe drug, there are a few potential risks to note before starting treatment. Blood glucose Metformin acts by lowering blood glucose levels, so if your blood glucose levels are typically low (hypoglycemia), you should avoid taking this medication. Co-administration of metformin with other diabetic therapies may also result in adverse drug interactions.² Make sure to discuss with your healthcare professional whether you should take metformin. If you are taking it, check-in regularly with your doctor to monitor your blood glucose levels in order to adjust your dose to minimize any complications. Renal impairment and lactic acidosis Metformin may not be appropriate for you if you have a history of renal impairment.¹² This may result in lactic acidosis, the overproduction of lactic acid, which is a relatively rare side effect of metformin treatment. It is unclear whether metformin causes lactic acidosis or whether other predisposing factors cause it.¹³ If you have a history of renal complications, talk to your doctor to discuss whether metformin is an appropriate drug for you. Gastrointestinal issues Gastrointestinal problems (diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and/or abdominal cramps) are a common side effect of taking many types of medication, including metformin. While the prevalence and severity tend to be relatively minor, you should consult your doctor if you are experiencing any issues.
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