Although developed to help Type 2 diabetics control blood sugar levels, metformin can be used by nondiabetics as a weight loss aid. However, people with Type 1 diabetes should not use metformin. Metformin works by stabilizing glucose levels and increasing your body's sensitivity to insulin. This reduces hunger and allows you to limit calorie consumption, leading to weight loss.
Weight Loss and Metformin
To lose 1 lb., you must cut 3,500 calories from your diet. Eating 500 fewer calories daily should help you lose about 1 lb. each week. If you increase your physical activity level and use more calories, you could lose even more weight. Metformin can help you cut calories by increasing satiety, helping you feel satisfied eating less food. Metformin is not an appetite suppressant; rather, it helps to keep blood sugar and insulin production steady. This lessens hunger and doesn't trigger food cravings that often lead to overeating.
Metformin Dosage
Metformin is the active ingredient in Glucophage, Glucophage XR, Fortamet, Glumetza and Riomet. These brand-name drugs are available in a standard formula and a time-release formula designed to be taken only once daily. The standard tablets may be taken up to three times daily. Typically, your doctor may start you with 500 to 1,000 mg daily. You can take up to 2,000 mg or 2,500 mg daily, whether you are taking the medication for blood sugar control or solely for weight loss. Your dose will depend on your regular eating and exercise pattern. Too much metformin can lead to hypoglycemia -- low blood sugar.
Lifestyle Choices
The Diabetes Prevention Program notes that metformin may be an effective weight loss aid, but not as effective as behavior modification such as following a healthy, balanced diet and increasing your physical activity. A 2002 study found that overweight people at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes reduced their risk of diabetes by 58 percent by making lifestyle changes, while those taking metformin reduced their risk by 31 percent. Although using metformin may help you lose weight, it is not as effective as making sustainable lifestyle choices -- following a low fat, low calorie, balanced diet and exercising at least 30 minutes daily five days a week.
Risks
Metformin can interact with other drugs; always tell you doctor about any over-the-counter and prescription medications you use. Metformin may not be appropriate for anyone with a history of liver or heart disease. Common side effects include upset stomach, indigestion and diarrhea. The most serious side effect is rare, but potentially fatal -- lactic acidosis, a buildup of lactic acid in your bloodstream. Your risk of lactic acidosis increases if you have compromised liver or kidney function or a history of alcohol abuse.
References
- Drugs.com: Metformin
- MayoClinic.com; Metformin; June 2011
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse; Diabetes Prevention Program; October 2008
- "Obesity Research"; Metformin Decreases Food Consumption and Induces Weight Loss in Subjects with Obesity with Type II Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes.; A Lee, JE Morley; January 1998
- eMedTV; Metformin and Lactic Acidosis; Kristi Monson, PharmD; February 2007
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