Wonders of Metformin

'The drug is effective in treating weight gain associated with second-generation antipsychotics in youth.'

- PHILIP S. CHUA

RECENT findings indicate that Metformin, a staple medication for type 2 diabetes, significantly reduces the risk of long COVID by 40% to 60% when taken during acute infection. New research also reveals it acts directly on the brain's hypothalamus to control hunger and blood sugar, potentially slows aging, and may counteract weight gain from antipsychotics.

Metformin is a very popular biguanide class of oral medication approved by the US-FDA as a first-line drug in the management of type 2 diabetes. It lowers blood sugar levels, improves insulin resistance, reduces glucose production in the liver, and helps in weight loss. Metformin is also used “off-label” for polycystic ovary syndrome; it regulates the menstrual cycle and improves fertility.

Metformin is linked to boosting longevity by “improving metabolic health, reducing inflammation, and activating pathways that mimic caloric restriction.”

Recent studies at Stanford revealed the following new data about amazing Metformin:

Long COVID Prevention: Multiple studies, including the COVID-OUT trial, show that metformin reduces the risk of long COVID by 40-60% if administered early in the infection. It is believed to have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.

Brain Mechanism Revealed: Contrary to long-held beliefs that it only works in the gut/liver, studies show Metformin crosses the blood-brain barrier, affecting the hypothalamus, reducing hunger, and helping regulate blood sugar.