Beyond Blood Sugar Control: A Review of Metformin’s Therapeutic Potential in Age-Related Disease
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Date
2024-05-15
Authors
Kozak, Mackenzie
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Abstract
Evidence has suggested that the pharmacokinetic mechanisms of metformin may show benefit in the etiology of chronic disease beyond that of diabetes control. This review investigates various clinical trials and analyses the efficacy of metformin in non-diabetic individuals focusing on cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disease, and lung neoplasm. Findings suggest an overall neutrality in the effects of metformin across the three analyzed aspects of chronic disease. Specifically, 38% of participants in the cardiovascular disease studies exhibited a favorable response to metformin. These benefits were observed in blood pressure control, left ventricular mass and NT-pro-BNP, with some evidence indicating an improved lipid profile. Additionally, 39% of participants in the neurodegenerative disease trials demonstrated positive outcomes. Significant enhancements were observed in cerebral blood flow within the orbitofrontal region, as well as executive function in Alzheimer’s disease patients. Mechanical power and duration in gait analysis in those with Myotonic dystrophy demonstrated beneficial outcomes. However, among participants with lung neoplasm, only 12% displayed overall benefit with metformin as an adjunct therapy. Findings suggested of six-month progression-free survival; however, conflicting data suggested a negative trend to the same parameter as well as overall survival. These findings may underscore the nuanced effects of metformin across different stages of disease and highlight the importance of considering various factors when evaluating therapeutic potential. In conclusion, while metformin shows promise in certain aspects of chronic disease, further research is needed to provide further insight into metformin’s role in chronic disease and prolonging health span.