glucophage-for weight loss non PCOS or diabetic

[aprilw]

Hi,

I'm looking for anyone who is taking glucophage(metformin) for weight loss and isn't a diabetic. I've been taking it for a couple days now and following a low carb diet. Any info, comments, suggestions on diet and any other stuff would be helpful.

Thanks
April

[doreen T]

hi April,

You might find members and some information about non-diabetic use of glucophage in our PCOS Forum (http://forum.lowcarber.org/forumdisplay.php?f=46) ... PCOS = polycystic ovary syndrome. The glucophage helps to improve insulin sensitivity and ideally lower insulin levels for women with this disorder.

Truthfully though, I haven't heard of its use as a weight loss aid in the absence of some disorder involving insulin sensitivity.


Doreen

[aprilw]

Hi all,

Just found this forum, hoping to learn some info. I've just started taking glucophage for weight loss. I'm not diabetic nor to I have PCOS, have been tested for it though. I've been reading the posts and see a lot of people have had some success with glucophage for weight loss even though it was prescribed to help with PCOS symptoms. I'm taking 250 mg once a day to start with. Is anyone else in this situation or can you offer any tips to help with the weight loss. So far the side effects of gluc seem to be minimal (diarrhea). I'm trying to stick to a low carb diet. I've found some info on using glucophage just for weight loss and it suggests eating fruit and root vegetables only with meals, which I find a little frustrating since I'll usually snack on a piece of fruit between meals. Anyways any suggestions, advice would be welcome. Thanks

april

[sourdaisy]

Glucophage/metformin is an insulin sensitizer. People with diabetes and PCOS have problems using insulin efficiently so the metformin helps make the body use insulin better.

Insulin makes fat, so it makes sense that a person with too much insulin will make too much fat. By taking metformin and thus reducing the amount of insulin in the blood, the person creates less fat and can lose weight.

If you don't have any insulin problems, then I really don't see how metformin can really help. Eating low carb is probably the best bet for you.

[Evonja]

Hello April. I'm non-diebetic and I've been taking Glucophage for weightloss since July 7th. I haven't really seen any real results yet. Dr. Atkins' low carb program is excellent, so I expected to lose the weight that I've lost so far, which is about 5 lbs. However, I'm hoping to lose a little quicker because of the pills. What did your doctor tell you about weightloss? He just told me that it would decrease the absorption of sugar. I don't have a lot of information, which is why I'd been meaning to call him, just to get more answers. Have you had any positive results? I was thinking that my body needed to adjust and get used to it. I have experienced a few side effects. I've been all over the internet looking for information on this.

[aprilw]

Hi Evonja, Finally someone else who's taking glucophage for the same reason I am. I've also looked all over the internet and found very limited info. I've also posted on the PCOS sight on this list as well hoping for some feedback. I've lost my usual 5 pounds I usually lose during the week and then put back on, on the weekend. My doc was hesitatnt to prescribe but he had heard of it being done before. One of the biggest things I've noticed is I've lost the craving for something sweet after meals (one of my biggest downfalls). I'm only taking 250 mg once a day so far, I'm thinking about upping the amount to 500mg (1 pill) maybe starting next week. I'm really hoping this will work, I feel like it is even as a placebo so far. I don't really know that much about why and how it works and would love to learn more. The reason I asked my doc for it is my mom is a medical transcriptionist in a large city and said that it was being prescribed to a lot of non-diabetics for weight loss with good results, based on the transcriptions she does. why I'd been meaning to call him, just to get more answers. If you'd like to email back and forth privately (since we both seem to be in the same boat weight and heightwise and goalwise), I'd be interested, let me know via the forum.

thanks April

[MsBrisby]

Maybe this is a totally nit-wit question, but is this also used for fertility? Or maybe I should say infertility? I could swear that is what my dr. mentioned. Boy it would be nice to use it for dual purposes!

[LovableLC]

Glucophage has been been linked to a lot of serious side effects. I don't think I would take it as a means of a diet pill. Lowering your Blood sugar when it's not high could also make it too low, and therefore dangerous. Why not just try low carbing and exercising.

[Evonja]

Yesterday, I emailed my doctor. He has not responded yet. I surfed this link some more and found that some people are not having outstanding results. I don't want to be a "test" monkey, which I think I may be. I've been doing Atkins for almost two weeks. I've lost, and I'm sure it's because of Atkins itself, not the Glucophage. Personally, I think some (not all) doctors may be using their patients as case studies. My dosage is 750 mg once a day, time-released. I think LoveableLc has the right idea about the low carb and exercise. I just needed a little extra help and asked my doctor and Glucophage was his answer. I can be emailed during the week at lewalker~gapac.com or luciwalker~aol.com, evening and weekends.

[SweetMomE]

Glucophage has been been linked to a lot of serious side effects. I don't think I would take it as a means of a diet pill. Lowering your Blood sugar when it's not high could also make it too low, and therefore dangerous. Why not just try low carbing and exercising.

Actually, Glucophage does not lower your blood sugar if you are not diabetic. It is an insulin sensitizer, basically making your body respond to insulin more efficiently so you don't have to produce so much. This keeps your insulin levels from going up and causing the chain reaction with all the other hormones that make PCOS such a joy :rolleyes: Low-carbing and exercise are more efficient at lowering insulin, but not everyone chooses to do this WOE.

[sourdaisy]

Maybe this is a totally nit-wit question, but is this also used for fertility? Or maybe I should say infertility? I could swear that is what my dr. mentioned. Boy it would be nice to use it for dual purposes!

It can if your infertility is caused by PCOS. There is a complex relationship between insulin, estrogen, and androgens (male hormones). When your insulin is too high, it causes your ovaries to produce to many androgens, which ceases ovulation. If you're not ovulating, you can't get pregnant. So, by taking glucophage, you reduce the insulin which in turn reduces androgens. With the reduction of androgens, a lot of women start ovulating on their own.

[aprilw]

Just wanted to post a quick note about my success with taking metformin. (I'm not diabetic, nor do I have PCOS, just taking for weight loss. So far I've lost 6 pounds in 8 days. My weight is staying off. I've lost my craving for something sweet after each meal. It feels really good to be able to maintain a weight loss. I've cut out bread, except for the ocassional slice of whole wheat, along with pasta, potatoes etc. I plan to continue taking metformin. The ill effects I initally experienced have pretty much subsided. Woohoo.

[aprilw]

Three weeks into taking glucophage I've lost 13 pounds. All I can say is wow. In the last two years I've gained 40 pounds and up until now have not been able to drop any weight. So even though some people disagree on taking glucohphage for weight loss I'm impressed with it. It's helped me change my eating habits, lose weight, feel good, and I don't have endless heartburn all the time, yaa.

[sourdaisy]

aprilw, I'm not against it for weight loss, per se. I'm just not terribly fond of the idea of someone taking it who doesn't have insulin problems.

But from your description, I'd wager that you do. 40lbs in 2 years, inability to lose weight, and heartburn are all symptoms of insulin resistance. You may not have PCOS but it sure sounds like you're IR to me. And that's why the drug is working for you :)

Congrats!

[aprilw]

Sourdaisy,

Thanks for the congrats. It's been very frustrating with the weight gain. I've been tested ad-nauseum with nothing showing up, glucose, thyroid, etc. I have a doc appt next week and we'll see if he increases the glucophage dosage for continued weight loss.

[sourdaisy]

You're welcome and I completely understand the frustration. It's taken me years to finally figure out what my problem is. :(

Just curious, but did the doc test your insulin levels? People with IR often have very *good* glucose levels, often being on the low side of things. Because of this, a glucose test won't show anything wrong until the situation gets much worse and diabetes develops.

And if you're insulin levels have been checked out, my apologies. But if you've been lowcarbing and still having trouble losing weight, then I can see how glucophage will help you. :)

I think most of all, I'm just opposed to overweight people taking glucophage as a "diet drug" without attempting to low carb. Kinda like "I'll just pop this pill and eat a bag of chips" mentality. But I certainly don't see that attitude coming from you :)

[aprilw]

Sourdaisy,

I know I've had my glucose checked, but I'm not sure about the insulin levels. I'm going to ask next week at my doc appt. Nevertheless I've tried very hard to lose weight. I exercise, horseback ride, rollerblading, eat very moderately. I find all I have to do is actually eat regular meals and I start gaining weight. I'm not talking big high calorie meals just healthy food with moderate portions. So the glucphage induced weight loss has been a welcome relief along with the loss of cravings for sweets and I am following somewhat of a lowcarb diet. Thanks for the encouragement and I'll leave it at that.

AprilW

[sourdaisy]

aprilw, I sincerely hope you get to the bottom of your troubles, at least for peace of mind. I wish you continued success with your weight loss :)

[melissasvh]

My doctor suggested Atkins to me, then said that after three months, we'd check to see if we should add Glucophage to the mix. So far, I've lost 23 pounds in six weeks, but only by remaining in the 20-25 daily carbs level. Any suggestions if Glucophage would help further?

[aprilw]

Melissa,

I really know next to nothing about Atkins, need to do some more reading. What I've done since I started taking glucophage is cut out bread (except for the ocassional slice of whole wheat) potatoes, pasta. I've just been loading up on veggies and when I do feel hungry I have a small portion of protein because it takes away the hunger pains and makes me feel like I'm satisfied. Sounds like you've done well so far, keep it up. I'm sure there are much more educated people about your questions on this forum then myself. I'm learning as I go

[aprilw]

Hello,

Just came back from the doc. Was in for a checkup to see if the gluchophage was working. On the doctors scale I've lost 10 pounds from a month ago. I asked my doctor about insulin resistance (as suggested by sourdaisy) and he said not a prob, that he had tested for it. He's upped my dosage to 1/2 a pill twice a day (up from 1/2 a pill once a day)however he's concerned that I get a blood-sugar monitor and check my sugar in the am and pm to make sure it doesn't drop with upping the glucophage. So we'll see what happens, the main thing is more weight loss I would like to lose at least another 40 pounds.

[Selene]

Hi! i have been lurking about the forum and this caught my eye. I have been taking glucophage for a year or so now. I do have polycystic ovarain disease, irregular periods,<I would go for MONTHS without having one> and was infertile for years. Before taking this I was overweight. By using this ALONG with being an Atkins dieter, I have lost around 35 lbs, got my cycle back on track, and controlled my aggravating acne! YAY! But I have been taking it twice a day...850 mg. When I miss a dose I kinda drag around here like I have mono..LOL! The only side effect i have ever had was having an upset stomach for a week or so...I dont have any problems now tho!
Good Luck! :-)

[Phemail1]

Can anyone give me feedback on their experience with Metformin. I have symptoms of PCOS and insulin resistance.... irregular monthly cycles, hair in unwanted places and weight in the midsection that is cemented to me. Gaines a lot in past 2 years. My Dr thinks this will help so I started it with moderate low carb eating.... Any feedback would be appreciated or your stories to share.
thanks

[LittleStar]

phemail1,

So far my experience with Metformin has been a positive one, I only had problems for a day or two when I would increase my dose(upset stomach), I've had my cycles the last two month as scheduled and after struggling for many, many years the weight is finally coming off. but I don't completely credit the Met for that, like my Dr. put it " Metformin will help put you on the same playing field as someone that doesn't have pcos" so I've been trying to keep up my part by making good choices , but I also feel that I have a different motivation for those choices now, it's not about the weight so much as my goal to keep pcos in check, it's only been about 2 months since i was diagnosed and started Metformin so I'm still pretty much at the beginning of my journey but i hope to keep seeing positive results, and I wish the same for you!

LittleStar

[Phemail1]

Greetings Little Star,
Well it is into week 2 and I do notice some changes already. Did you find like me that your appetite reduced drastically. Mine did as for a huge craving I used tohave for sweets went away. The stomach issues have improved but not gone away, hopefully they will subside. ONe thing I have had is this unusual distribution of weight in my midsection the past few years that I am hoping to redistribute. I feel I have lost a few pounds the past two weeks in my midsection. Did you have an issue with gaining in the midsection? If so has the medication had any impact for you on the reduction of that as I am hoping for. As for a period... havent seen that yet but I can be patient as conceiving was not my reason for this all the miserable symptoms were. Please keep in touch and let me know how you are doing as we are at the same stage of the process. I wish you well.
Phemail1

[jadefox26]

Hiya, just a quick one on this subject. I was using metformin for control of PCOS for months, but then I came off of it when I fell pregnant with my twins. My friend was on it too and fell pregnant shortly after 6 moinths of being on it. I would warn anyone who is taking it that it definately does something to your fertility!!!!
Anyway, I tried to go back on it again at the begining of this year, but it made me feel terrible. Tired and washed out all the time, headachy, nauseous....awful in general to the point where I simply couldn't go on with the treatment anymore.
I didn't lose weigh whilst on it first or second time round, but at least the first time it did help with the periods and PCOS.

Anyway, just thought i would put in my 10cs worth. I really wish I could take it again, but I am really worried I'll get all of those symptoms back.

Anyone else suffered with these things whilst taking it?

[Trob8272]

hi april Congrats on your success. i do have pcos and was just prescribed glucophage and have not started that or a diet yet. and i was just wondering was diet you were on to get the success that you have so far. thanks and again good job.

[naturalmom]

I was diagnosed with PCOS at age 23. I was not terribly overweight (150 at 5'5") and had no symptoms other than a missing period. They tried to induce ovulation with Clomid, etc. For three years I tried to get pregnant, and in the meantime I adopted a beautiful baby girl. :D However, a year after she was born, I knew I wanted more children and that I couldn't afford another adoption. I inquired my physician about Glucophage and he stated I was not "IR enough" to take it...how the heck would he know since he didn't check my insulin levels?

Anyway, in October 2002 I ordered Glucophage from a New Zealand pharmaceutical company (without a prescription). Yes I know this is controversial, etc. I was desperate, though. It made me feel sick and shaky but I persisted. Exactly 18 days after starting Glucophage, I had a menstrual period. I didn't lose weight btw on Glucophage - I was not low carbing. Anyway, kept taking it (500 mg a day) and the symptoms stopped. In December I hadn't had a period, so I thought the Glucophage might no longer be working. As a last hope, I took a pregnancy test.


POSITIVE!!!! :D

I got pregnant within 6 weeks of starting Glucophage!!! I now have two beautiful little girls. However, I am sure that my problem is IR (as is evidenced by ovulation once on Glucophage) I am older, know more now, and am dedicated to trying the low-carb diet while med-free. But for people with IR, Glucophage can truly cure their infertility - look at me!

[nadineg]

I've just signed up, and need to shed about 15 pounds to get back to pre-pregnancy weight from 5 years ago, but diet and exercise are not helping anymore. I want to know how people are making out with taking metformin when they're not diabetic or don't have PCOS. I checked some of the messages from last year, but haven't seen any recent updates. Does it work? Should I ask for the prescription?

[suze0220]

I searched for infor on this medicine and found this site. i thought I would let everyone know that my doctor prescribed this to me as well for weight loss. now i dont have diabetes but my gyno doc (different doc) did say that i may have PCOS. but this was not given to me for that. I was told by my pharmacist that they are not allowed to give this drug for fertility or infertility, also my doc said if i was trying to get preg or was preg I COULD NOT be on this drug. so im not sure how it works with infertility. also my doc mentioned that they give this for weight loss in children under the age of 16. she stated they arent allowed to be on regular weight loss medication. I just started taking this and would like to know how everyone else on it is doing. havent had any side effects yet and am taking 500 mg twice a day. Have a great day! :)

[nadineg]

I did end up starting metformin after all, started at 500 mg once a day for a week, then twice a day. I've been on it for a month now, and have noticed less cravings for carbohydrates and sweets, I feel fuller now, and my appetite has gone down so I'm taking in fewer calories. I'm not starving either!! I've lost about 5 lbs in the past month since starting it. The only side effects I've experienced are nausea & bloating for a few days when I start the higher dose. Every so often, I'll get a little paranoid about the dangerous side effects (lactic acidosis), when I feel a little flu-ish, with muscle aches, but it goes away after a day or two so I know it can't be the metformin, probably just a virus.
I don't have PCOS or diabetes, but I agree that I think metformin is a tool for weight-loss in people who have tried diet/exercise/low-carb and it's still not helping.
It does help women with infertility due to PCOS, so I'm sure it's ok in pregnancy because women might not know they're pregnant at first while they're on it. Also, I do know it helps with central obesity (apple shape) more than pear shape, so that's why it's used on kids.

[MoNoCarb]

I'm on metformin for PCOS. Some of you who have been prescribed met for weight loss are on such low dosages that I'd be stunned if the met was making a difference to your weight loss even if you are insulin resistant.

Also - I think it takes quite a long time usually for enough met to build up in your system to really have an effect (my doctor said 4 weeks on 1600 mg A DAY) before we'd see real results.

That said - well done to those of you losing!

Whatever works...

[suze0220]

hi, i was just wondering if anyone else is experiencing any certain symptoms from taking the glucophage for weight loss. i have had stomach cramps, but its mainly that i have been so incredibly tired its ridiculous. i normally am up around 6:45 every morning to excersice eat breakfast and take a shower to be at work by 8:30. now im lucky if i am up by 8:30 and thats after going to bed around 11 or so. just wondering if anyone else is having this before i talk to my doctor.

[susansmk]

I was just diagnosed IR and put on Metformin a few days ago. The stomach cramps and diarrhea were so bad yesterday I was convinced I was allergic or something. I've also been super tired and had a real lack of energy. A call to my doctor confirmed that this is totally normal in the first couple of weeks. He said it eases after about a week and pretty much disappears by the second week.

Let's hang in there together, we'll get through it!

[MoNoCarb]

I have the poos from my met. I've been on it for two weeks.

I don't feel splendid, that's for sure. I find that if I take the met in the middle of my meal, the side effects aren't as bad...

[suze0220]

thanks im glad to know im not the only one feeling draggy all day long. and im glad to know its not going to last. i do have to go back to the doc at then end of my first month which will be in about a week to see my progress. and without being able to excersice cause i cant wake up early enough, im not sure if i have made any.. but its ok! :)

[DAMAEMMA]

I was on glucophage about 5 yrs ago and it made me feel just awful, stomach ache, running to the bathroom, just feeling like I had the flu. But I started taking it again last week. 850mg twice a day after meals. I am doing lo carb this time and I have no symptoms at all. I think that the more carbs you have in your system the worse you will feel on this medication. just thought this might help some of you.

[cocoa27]

I have been taking glucophage for about a month now, after killing myself in the gym, I noticed I wasn't losing a pound actually gaining. I went to my doc for help and found out I was prediabetic....which was the reason I was trying to shed pounds in the first place. I haven't had any side effects I take 850 mg once a day during or right before a meal. I didn't notice a difference in my weight until I bought a gown for a ball......and there was room to spare!!! Now this may seem a little selfish, but I can deal with the diabetes, I just want to lose weight. What I am struggling with is the portions, they have me on a 1200 calorie intake with very limited carbs, how do you guys do it. I'm a southern cook everything comes with bread and rice. Some pointers would be great.

[Reginia]

What type of side effects did you experience?

Just wanted to post a quick note about my success with taking metformin. (I'm not diabetic, nor do I have PCOS, just taking for weight loss. So far I've lost 6 pounds in 8 days. My weight is staying off. I've lost my craving for something sweet after each meal. It feels really good to be able to maintain a weight loss. I've cut out bread, except for the ocassional slice of whole wheat, along with pasta, potatoes etc. I plan to continue taking metformin. The ill effects I initally experienced have pretty much subsided. Woohoo.

[jennlee]

Honestly if I didn’t have PCOS I wouldn't take Met. The side effects were a serious nightmare when I first started the medication.

[Reginia]

OMG. You all have me totally scared now.

This sounds like a terrible medication. I've gotten my blood work back and I am barely IR but have PCOS.

Honestly if I didn’t have PCOS I wouldn't take Met. The side effects were a serious nightmare when I first started the medication.

[jennlee]

If you have PCOS the benefits can greatly outweigh the discomfort. The first few months I was on Met were horrible, however not everyone has it so bad. On the plus side your body will adjust and the side effects usually fade. Overall I’ve had great success on Met and don't regret taking it. My periods normalized and I was finally able to get pregnant twice and carry both babies to term.

[dearmommy]

I take metformin also for weightloss. I have all these side effects regularly however to tell the truth because of my weight I can not be certain that these are medication side effects or do I feel lousy because I am so overweight. Initially I had an extreme increase in hunger but eventually I am finding it helpful to curb appetite.

[quietone]

This is all interesting and I wanted to post a note about IR.

I had IR (and I probably still do) before I went on low carb. The way they found out was by accident...they were testing me for diabetes and noticed that my fasting blood sugar was 109 and after I had taken the glucose it dropped to in the 70s range. The first time, the nurse argued that I had eaten before I came in even though I was supposed to fast (I hadn't) the second time, this nurse was more astute and brought it to the doctor's attention.

That's an absolute sign of IR/pre diabetes apparently.

So I borrowed a meter and started testing my sugar every morning when I first got up and it was always between 100/110.

Also, I was told its a sign of IR if you get very sleepy after a normal carb load meal...not overload, but normal, when most people would get energetic from it.

I was never offered either met or glucophage...curious.

[cocoa27]

I have been taken met for about two months now and haven't had any side effects, I do notice when I skip a dose the sweet cravings come back in full force and after eating I feel completely drained...... I think it's a trial and error process you have to find what works for you.

[Allena]

I've been on Glucophage for about 3 Months. Has anyone experienced any extreme stomach sickness with this medication? It has made me sick at least 1-2 every week for the last 3 months. However it has helped my weight loss significantly, thank G-d. But Be careful with it and don't take it without food!

[SafferBabe]

I've been on Glucophage for about 3 Months. Has anyone experienced any extreme stomach sickness with this medication? It has made me sick at least 1-2 every week for the last 3 months. However it has helped my weight loss significantly, thank G-d. But Be careful with it and don't take it without food!

You might want to watch out for lactic acidosis. It's an extremely serious and sometimes fatal condition. A small number of people who have taken metformin have developed a serious condition called lactic acidosis that has been fatal in up to 50% of cases. Lactic acidosis has occurred most often in people whose kidneys were not working properly. Liver problems may also increase the risk of developing lactic acidosis. Stop taking metformin and call your doctor immediately if you experience a feeling of general discomfort or sickness; weakness; sore or aching muscles; trouble breathing, unusual drowsiness, dizziness or lightheadedness; unusual or unexplained stomach upset (after the initial stomach upset that may occur at the start of therapy with metformin); or the sudden development of a slow or irregular heartbeat. These may be signs of lactic acidosis.

I'm not here to judge but I was quite surprised to see that some people take Glucophage for the sole purpose of losing weight. I have developed Type II diabetes and had to take 6 x 500mg per day for roughly 18 - 22 months. During the last two years I have gained close to 100lbs. Yes, I used to binge eat but I was taking 6 tablets per day and gained 100lbs.

Since starting Atkins I've binned the Glucophage. My blood sugar levels are normal and I have lost 22lbs in one month! I guess what I'm trying to say is that low-carbing alone works great for weight loss :) I was over the moon when I binned the Glucophage because as with all other medicines there are serious risks involved :( I was also always under the impression that oral diabetes drugs may increase heart-related mortality. I'm no doctor but if you can lose the weight without taking the tablets (doing low-carbing of course) I think it's best :thup:

:rheart:

[Reginia]

Different strokes for different folks. Many doctors prescribe it for weight loss in PCOS patients...doctors also prescribe it for infertility as well. It has multiple uses.


I'm not here to judge but I was quite surprised to see that some people take Glucophage for the sole purpose of losing weight. I have developed Type II diabetes and had to take 6 x 500mg per day for roughly 18 - 22 months. During the last two years I have gained close to 100lbs. Yes, I used to binge eat but I was taking 6 tablets per day and gained 100lbs.

Since starting Atkins I've binned the Glucophage. My blood sugar levels are normal and I have lost 22lbs in one month! I guess what I'm trying to say is that low-carbing alone works great for weight loss :) I was over the moon when I binned the Glucophage because as with all other medicines there are serious risks involved :( I was also always under the impression that oral diabetes drugs may increase heart-related mortality. I'm no doctor but if you can lose the weight without taking the tablets (doing low-carbing of course) I think it's best :thup:

:rheart:

[SafferBabe]

Different strokes for different folks. Many doctors prescribe it for weight loss in PCOS patients...doctors also prescribe it for infertility as well. It has multiple uses.

I know, hence underlining "for the sole purpose of losing weight" :) I'm not judging Reginia. Just gave my two cents ;)

All of the best with your journey :thup:

:rheart:

[MaryHann]

Hi April,
Like you, my doctor has prescribed metformin to me for weight loss. The whole low carb diet is new to me, and I was just wondering if you reached your goal, and if you felt like the pills helped you. Hope to hear from you, I did notice that your last date visited was in 03.
Thanks, Mary

[AuntWie]

Sourdaisy, may I ask what dosage you're taking now? I know I am IR and have had PCOS for years, but since I wasn't trying to get pregnant, getting a diagnosis from mediocre doctors has been difficult. You know what I mean; it isn't a DISEASE so why bother talking about it or testing for it? blech.

[mstares]

Metformin will not work for weight loss if you are not insulin resistant (which means you have PCOS, type II diabetes, or syndrome X or some other underlying insulin resistance) The mechanics behind it is that it makes your cells more receptive to the insulin your body produces so you metabolize carbohydrate calories instead of storing them as fat. If you are normal and healthy, your body is doing that on it's own already. Limiting your carbohydrates will cause weight loss on it's own as well as correct heartburn, gas and acid reflux problems. The average patient on metformin loses approx. 4 pounds a year, and it's not uncommon to have an initial weight loss higher than that. I was on met for years and it had no effect on my weight. Oh well. We are all different. It can have some side effects and a lot of women have told me that it decreased or eliminated their libido! Not good! I did find that it did that to me as well as sucking the energy out of me. Those are probably the two most common side effects. If you are taking metformin, you really have to limit your alcohol intake. Too much alcohol and met can cause lactic acidosis, a potentially fatal condition. Also it's important to let your dentist know if you are having any dental work done. And of course, if you are having surgery you must stop taking it for a few days prior to surgery.

By the way April, there is no *test* for PCOS. The diagnosis is usually made after taking a detailed personal and family health history. A bunch of blood tests are taken which may or may not show minor abnormalities. Also, a check of if any PCOS symptoms are present, how you gain your weight/how it's distributed on your body etc. It takes some women years to get a diagnosis. I was diagnosed at age 42 after presenting symptoms since my teens. Because I had no real infertility problems, doctors ruled out PCOS for me. Some people and doctors think that you ALWAYS have infertility probs with PCOS but that's not so. It's one of the more common symptoms and PCOS is the most common reason for infertility in women. But that doesn't make it an absolute. Good luck with your weight loss!

Margaret

[DrH]

Margaret - some of what you stated here is wrong. Metformin does work for weight loss and their is a test for PCOS. Jill

[misschris]

By the way April, there is no *test* for PCOS. The diagnosis is usually made after taking a detailed personal and family health history. A bunch of blood tests are taken which may or may not show minor abnormalities. Also, a check of if any PCOS symptoms are present, how you gain your weight/how it's distributed on your body etc. It takes some women years to get a diagnosis. I was diagnosed at age 42 after presenting symptoms since my teens. Because I had no real infertility problems, doctors ruled out PCOS for me. Some people and doctors think that you ALWAYS have infertility probs with PCOS but that's not so. It's one of the more common symptoms and PCOS is the most common reason for infertility in women. But that doesn't make it an absolute. Good luck with your weight loss!

Margaret

I had a test for PCOS, an Ultrasound. It came back showing polycystic ovaries, it was VERY clear that I had PCOS. This was secondary to the blood tests. Now, not everyone with PCOS comes back with a positive ultrasound, but it certainly is a test for PCOS :)

As for Met/Gluc for weight loss, I'm IR and it didn't do anything for me. It did make me sick, so I guess that could have assisted with the weight loss. I dumped it because it wasn't worth the risk or the side effects for me. I started taking cinnamon and modified my diet even more, and upped the exercise. I feel much better. The key is eating well, eliminating the bad carbs (because the PCOS makes it much more difficult to process carbs) and exercise.

[mstares]

Metformin is a diabetes medication that has several desirable side effects. Like all medications, not everyone experiences all side effects and not everyone has those side effects to the same degree. Met can increase fertility by normalizing insulin usage. Our hormones are kind of like dominoes, if one tips over into an imbalance it sets off a chain reaction in other hormones as the amount of them we secrete or manufacture depends on how much of certain other hormones are present in our bodies. If insulin imbalance was at the root of your weight gain or infertility then you might have those postive side effects.

Metformin does help with weight loss in some people, of course it does...I repeat, average patient will lose about 4 pounds a year. Metformin is metabolized in the liver (that's why you are supposed to have your liver enzymes checked by a blood test every 3-4 months while taking met to make sure it's not damaging your liver in anyway) It works to make our cells more receptive to our insulin. Less insulin being secreted can contribute to weight loss. That makes met a lot different than a weight loss medication. If you are prone to insulin resistance, chances are that it may be more effective for you in weight loss. It's not a diet pill though and people need to be aware of that and to remember it. It works by affecting effectiveness of a hormone. If that hormone is being secreted at just the right amount and your cells are taking it up at optimal levels, metformin probably will not impact weight loss one way or the other. Like a previous poster said, she gained 100 pounds while taking 3000 mg (6 tablets) of metformin daily. I probably gained about 20 pounds over a 4 year period. I guess we aren't all lucky enough to get the *right* side effects. :(

Sorry, I should have paid closer attention to my semantics. That's why I prefer Stein-Leventhal syndrome to PCOS, it's not so confusing. I should have said there is no one DEFINITIVE test for PCOS. As misscriss said, the ultrasound was secondary to blood work and I'll bet her doctor considered her medical history and symptoms she was presenting. There are a series of tests that taken in context with each other CAN indicate Stein-Leventhal syndrome and are effective tools for diagnosis. The ultrasound is one of those. Many women who have PCOS have cystic ovaries, many do not. Many women have cystic ovaries for other reasons. However, cystic ovaries in conjunction with several indicators/markers/symptoms can be very indicative of Stein-Leventhal syndrome. Over the years and after many ultrasounds, I have cystic ovaries sometimes and sometimes they are clear. One of my daughters has always had cysts, while the other rarely shows them when checked by ultrasound. Both have PCOS btw. A friend of mine has a problem with fibroid cysts on her ovaries but she doesn't have PCOS. Confusing I know, and it sure can make it difficult to get a definitive diagnosis!

Way to go misscriss on your lifestyle modifications! :thup:

All the best
Margaret

[campkrazy]

Hey All I am new to the forum.First post

I found this thread during a google search.

How are you all doing with glucophage?

My Dr. started me on gluc plus Wellbutrin.he said Wellbutrin would help with the diet.
Have any of you heard of these two together?

Karen

[suzz13722]

I have just started taking metformin 500mg three times daily for weight loss. I had talked to my doctor about not being able to loose weight for three years. I'm up to 216 after having three babies in a row and cannot loose it even with regular exercise and regular eating habits. She stated that she had used this medicine with some of her patients with 60% loosing weight. We did blood work and I am completely healthy. Did this actually work for you and how long have you stayed on the pills.

[rottngrrl]

I'm also new to the forum and this is my first post.

I just started last week. I had initially lost about 25 pounds simply low-carbing, then went into a two year stall. My symptoms all fit with syndrome X, so my doctor started me on 500mg 2x daily and it certainly seems to be working. After two years of losing the same 5 pounds over and over I've lost 7 pounds in a week. I'm sure a lot of it is water weight, I have swollen ankles, etc. I haven't changed my diet or exercise, in fact I've been exercising less than usual due to recent knee surgery.

I'm due to go in for a recheck and blood test after 30 days of the meds, so we'll see how everything is going at that point.

[quietone]

Karen, a lot of people do lose their appetites on Welbutrin. It's an anti-d, but ti also jacks you up and makes your appetitue disappear (for some people).

[soule72]

Why is metformin bad if you are pregnant or want to get pregnant?

[mamatrina]

i have a 11 month old son and hve not had a period since then i went to the doctors had a bunch of test taken was just diagnosed with PCOS and was started on metformin i am not trying to get pregnant again i am just trying to feel better but it has just made me feel really weird. im hoping it wil help me to feel better and shed some pounds as well. I have gained 25 lbs since i had my son and am now am 157lbs and only 5'1 its horrible i hope this will help mebut i just dont know.

[AuntWie]

Hey, Mamatrina, hang in there. I'm only 5 feet even, and I"ve finally got my weight DOWN to 152. I know, it's really hard. The Metformin makes me just a little nauseous. I can't say that I like it, but I keep telling myself that at least when I'm nauseous, I don't want to eat! lol. It definitely IS helping with the weight loss. I still have to watch both carbs and calories. I know some people can lose while eating a lot more than I do, but I think the PCOS and insulin resistance (I think they often go together) make it much harder. The good news is this: as I lose weight, my metabolism seems to be slowly straightening itself out. Very slowly. There is hope.

[AnnabelLee]

What's up, ladies :wave:

I have a few questions about Met. My doc put me on it after gaining 60lbs. in less than 2 years, having an unstable glucose level and having a high testosterone level, all pointing to PCOS. She prescribed it mainly for the weight loss aspect. I'm thrilled to finally having a fair chance in losing the weight. :D

Just wondering how much weight I could look forward to losing...? I know everyone one is different so I'm just looking for a ballpark figure. Also, does anyone else take painkillers with Met...? I'm prescribed 5/500 vicodin 4x a day to combat the back pain from the PCOS. Just wondering if there is any side effects I should worry about...? Any additional info about the Met would be great, also :thup:

[MsTwacky]

What's up, ladies :wave:

I have a few questions about Met. My doc put me on it after gaining 60lbs. in less than 2 years, having an unstable glucose level and having a high testosterone level, all pointing to PCOS. She prescribed it mainly for the weight loss aspect. I'm thrilled to finally having a fair chance in losing the weight. :D

Just wondering how much weight I could look forward to losing...? I know everyone one is different so I'm just looking for a ballpark figure. Also, does anyone else take painkillers with Met...? I'm prescribed 5/500 vicodin 4x a day to combat the back pain from the PCOS. Just wondering if there is any side effects I should worry about...? Any additional info about the Met would be great, also :thup:

I hate to burst your bubble, but Met never helped me lose any weight at all.

[mollycule6]

Met helped me lose around 10lbs but that happens with a lot of people on met. If you dont watch what you eat, you can EASILY gain that weight back. MsTwacky is right, met doesnt CAUSE you to lose weight, but it will put you on a more even playing field to lose weight. You still have to do all the work, but the weight should slowly (very slowly for some) come off. HTH :)

[AKE]

Hi,

I'm looking for anyone who is taking glucophage(metformin) for weight loss and isn't a diabetic. I've been taking it for a couple days now and following a low carb diet. Any info, comments, suggestions on diet and any other stuff would be helpful.

Thanks
April
I have been prescribed Metformin for insulin resistance and I am very interested in the weight loss that has become impossible to get rid of. Has this med worked for you for weight loss??

[CinnamintS]

I found your site from a google search. I went to see my doctor yesterday. He gave me a precription for Metaform to lose weight. He said it works in some people and thought it might for me. He also said it might prevent me from getting type 2 diabetes. My father died of a heart attack at 52 years old. He was type two diabetic. I am 53 years old menopausal with very high blood pressure, high total cholesterol, my fasting blood sugar is has been 100 and 120 on my last two test. I have been eating a low glycemic diet for most of the last 10 years. I have focused on eating healthy and at times exercise without much luck in losing weight. I even joined WW for 9 months. I lost weight the first month (about 25 lbs) then spent the next months gaining and losing it back even with daily exercise. I am sure it wasn't muscle I gained. I have never been able to lose without exercise. I do think it it helps with IR. Right now I have a auto immune disease (RA). Some times I can't get out of bed and it is hard to even walk. My toes are deformed. My doctor did not want me doing anything to inflame my joints, muscles and tendons. But right now I feel good. My RA is very agressive. I am on alot of medication (metotexate for one) that is hard on my liver. Sometimes I am on steroids for the pain. This effects my blood sugar too. I worry a little about taking glucophage with my other meds. Reading some of your post, makes me wonder if it is worth taking????? Weight loss is so important to my over all health. Weight loss has nothing to do with vanity for me. My joints can't take the extra weight. I want to stay active if I can. My Mother has osteoarthritis. She has had two hips and a knee replaced. Surgury seems so painful. Then I worry about my heart. Not only do I have bad blood work and genetics, RA also leads to heart attacts. I am not afraid of the side effects. If I can take Metotrexate I can surley take Metaform. So what do you do when nothing seems to work? Should I try it?

Carol

[ReginaW]

Actually, Glucophage does not lower your blood sugar if you are not diabetic. It is an insulin sensitizer, basically making your body respond to insulin more efficiently so you don't have to produce so much. This keeps your insulin levels from going up and causing the chain reaction with all the other hormones that make PCOS such a joy :rolleyes: Low-carbing and exercise are more efficient at lowering insulin, but not everyone chooses to do this WOE.

Actually the primary function of glucophage is it improves hyperglycemia primarily through its suppression of hepatic glucose production (hepatic gluconeogenesis); it is also an insulin sensitizer (as you noted)....but the danger for someone without diabetes/pre-diabetes and/or PCOS taking glucophage is it's action to suppress gluconeogenesis - creation of glucose in the liver, on demand, as needed to maintain blood sugar levels. When someone is doing low-carb, they depend on gluconeogenesis for blood sugar stabilization and maintaining blood sugar levels.....glucophage inhibits that action and therefore, even those with diabetes often reduce and/or stop glucophage within a few weeks of starting a low-carb diet - many find don't need it any longer.

I think taking it for weight loss is playing with fire....low-carb works well and should be the first line option sans the off-label (very questionable off-label use I'll add) use that isn't well documented.

[AnnabelLee]

I hate to burst your bubble, but Met never helped me lose any weight at all.


WooHoo...!! I lost 14lbs. already...!!! :thup:

[nosugarmom]

I found that the 2 times I was on Met for 2 weeks (the longest I could stand it) I lost 14lbs both times (and gained them back) then when I started my Atkins Induction for the last time (and am still going - just prego for 6 more weeks) I lost 14lbs as well. I have determined that while I was on Met I was eating "lower carb" to avoid the symptoms and so am not convinced that it was the Met that made me loose the weight. Good luck to you and congrats on your loss!

[temperance]

I was at my doctors today and wanted to go on phentermine which is a weight loss drug and he put me on metforin or glucophage (much safer then phen)... and the reason they give it out for weight loss is for people who are insulin resistant ... i went to a nutritionist a while back and i was a good candidate for IR so i tried the linking and balancing eating plan and it helped alot but i wanted something to up the process and this is what he suggested. thats why some doctors are prescribing it for weight loss... i would imagine that it wouldnt work for people who are not IR. if you want more info go to www.irdiet.com

thanks

[FairBlue]

Hi
Planning on asking my doc for this drug strictly for weight loss. What's the latest?

[buttermeup]

Wow, i have just read the entire thread and I am amazed how stupid all of you are. Do you not read the drug information?? yes it is used for diabetics, PCOS, fertility, and not weight loss. It is used for high blood sugar control and low blood sugar control - I have low blood sugar - hypoglycemia.

It stabilizes your blood sugar so you are not too high or to low. You can't get low blood sugar by taking it. it is for the treatment of low blood sugar.

Wow. I can't believe the question going on here. You guys are out to lunch!!!!!!The Call for Participation for Wikimania 2009 has been released. Submit your presentations before April 15. [Hide]
[Help us with translations!]

Metformin
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Jump to: navigation, search


Metformin
Systematic (IUPAC) name
N,N-dimethylimidodicarbonimidic diamide
Identifiers
CAS number 657-24-9
ATC code A10BA02
A10BD02 (with sulfonylureas)
A10BD03 (with rosiglitazone)
A10BD05 (with pioglitazone)
A10BD07 (with sitagliptin)
A10BD08 (with vildagliptin)
PubChem 4091
DrugBank APRD01099
Chemical data
Formula C4H11N5
Mol. mass 129.164 g/mol
165.63 g/mol (hydrochloride)
Synonyms 1,1-dimethylbiguanide
Pharmacokinetic data
Bioavailability 50 to 60% under fasting conditions
Metabolism None
Half life 6.2 hours
Excretion Active renal tubular excretion by OCT2
Therapeutic considerations
Licence data US FDA:link

Pregnancy cat. C(AU) B(US)

Legal status POM(UK) ℞-only(US)

Routes Oral

Metformin (INN; trade names Glucophage, Riomet, Fortamet, Glumetza, Obimet, Dianben, Diabex, Diaformin, and others) (IPA: /mɛtˈfɔrmɪn/) is an oral anti-diabetic drug from the biguanide class. It is the first-line drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, particularly in overweight and obese people and those with normal kidney function,[1][2][3] and evidence suggests it may be the best choice for people with heart failure.[4] It is also used in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome.

Metformin is the most popular anti-diabetic drug in the United States and one of the most prescribed drugs in the country overall, with nearly 35 million prescriptions filled in 2006 for generic metformin alone.[5] When prescribed appropriately, metformin causes few adverse effects—the most common is gastrointestinal upset—and, unlike many other anti-diabetic drugs, does not cause hypoglycemia if used alone. It also helps reduce LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and may aid weight loss. As of 2008[update], metformin is one of only two oral anti-diabetics in the World Health Organization Model List of Essential Medicines (the other being glibenclamide).[6]

Contents [hide]
1 History
2 Indications
3 Contraindications
4 Adverse effects
4.1 Lactic acidosis
4.2 Gastrointestinal
5 Overdosage
6 Mechanism of action
7 Interactions
8 Formulations
8.1 Combinations with other drugs
9 References
10 External links



[edit] History
The biguanide class of anti-diabetic drugs, which also includes the withdrawn agents phenformin and buformin, originates from the French lilac (Galega officinalis), a plant known for several centuries to reduce the symptoms of diabetes mellitus.[7]

Metformin was first described in the scientific literature in 1957.[8] It was first marketed in France in 1979, but did not receive approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Type 2 diabetes until 1994.[9] Bristol-Myers Squibb's Glucophage was the first branded formulation of metformin to be marketed in the United States, beginning on March 3, 1995.[10] Generic formulations are now available.


[edit] Indications
The main use for metformin is in the treatment of diabetes mellitus type 2, especially when this accompanies obesity and insulin resistance. Metformin is the only anti-diabetic drug that has been proven to protect against the cardiovascular complications of diabetes.[11] This was first shown in the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study, a large study of overweight patients with diabetes.[12] Unlike the other most-commonly prescribed class of oral diabetes drugs, the sulfonylureas, metformin (taken alone) does not induce hypoglycemia.[13] Hypoglycemia during intense exercise has been documented, but is extremely rare.[14] It also does not cause weight gain, and may indeed produce minor weight loss.[15] Metformin also modestly reduces LDL and triglyceride levels.[16]

It is also being used increasingly in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS),[17] non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)[18] and premature puberty,[19] three other diseases that feature insulin resistance; these indications are still[update] considered experimental. Although metformin is not licensed for use in PCOS, the United Kingdom's National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence recommends that women with PCOS and a body mass index above 25 be given metformin when other therapy has failed to produce results.[20] The benefit of metformin in NAFLD has not been extensively studied and may be only temporary.[21]

It may reduce weight gain in patients taking atypical antipsychotics.[22]


[edit] Contraindications
Metformin is contraindicated in people with any condition that could increase the risk of lactic acidosis, including kidney disorders (creatinine levels over 150 μmol/l,[23] although this is an arbitrary limit), lung disease and liver disease. Heart failure has long been considered a contraindication for metformin use, although a 2007 systematic review showed metformin to be the only anti-diabetic drug not associated with harm in people with heart failure.[4]

It is recommended that metformin be temporarily discontinued before any radiographic study involving iodinated contrast (such as a contrast-enhanced CT scan or angiogram), as contrast dye may temporarily impair kidney function, indirectly leading to lactic acidosis by causing retention of metformin in the body.[24][25] It is recommended that metformin be resumed after two days, assuming kidney function is normal.[24][25]


[edit] Adverse effects

[edit] Lactic acidosis
The most serious potential side effect of metformin is lactic acidosis; this complication is very rare, and seems limited to those with impaired liver or kidney function. Phenformin, another biguanide, was withdrawn because of an increased risk of lactic acidosis (up to 60 cases per million patient-years). However, metformin is safer than phenformin, and the risk of developing lactic acidosis is not increased by the medication so long as it is not prescribed to known high-risk groups.[26]


[edit] Gastrointestinal
The most common adverse effect of metformin is gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea, cramps, nausea, vomiting and increased flatulence; metformin is more commonly associated with gastrointestinal side effects than most other anti-diabetic drugs.[16] In a clinical trial of 286 subjects, 53.2% of the 141 who were given immediate-release metformin (as opposed to placebo) reported diarrhea, versus 11.7% for placebo, and 25.5% reported nausea/vomiting, versus 8.3% for those on placebo.[27]

Gastrointestinal upset can cause severe discomfort for patients; it is most common when metformin is first administered, or when the dose is increased. The discomfort can often be avoided by beginning at a low dose (1 to 1.7 grams per day) and increasing the dose gradually. Gastrointestinal upset after prolonged, steady use is less common.

Long-term use of metformin has been associated with increased homocysteine levels[28] and malabsorption of vitamin B12.[29][30] Higher doses and prolonged use are associated with increased incidence of B12 deficiency, and some researchers recommend screening or prevention strategies.[31]


[edit] Overdosage
A review of intentional and accidental metformin overdoses reported to Poison control centers over a 5-year period found that serious adverse events were rare, though elderly patients appeared to be at greater risk.[32] Intentional overdoses with up to 63 g of metformin have been reported in the medical literature.[33] The major potentially life-threatening complication of metformin overdose is lactic acidosis. Treatment of metformin overdose is generally supportive, but may include sodium bicarbonate to address acidosis and standard hemodialysis or continuous veno-venous hemofiltration to rapidly remove metformin and correct acidosis.[34][35]


[edit] Mechanism of action
Metformin improves hyperglycemia primarily through its suppression of hepatic glucose production (hepatic gluconeogenesis).[36] The "average" person with type 2 diabetes has three times the normal rate of gluconeogenesis; metformin treatment reduces this by over one third.[37] Metformin activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a liver enzyme that plays an important role in insulin signaling, whole body energy balance, and the metabolism of glucose and fats;[38] activation of AMPK is required for metformin's inhibitory effect on the production of glucose by liver cells.[39] Research published in 2008 further elucidated metformin's mechanism of action, showing that activation of AMPK is required for an increase in the expression of SHP, which in turn inhibits the expression of the hepatic gluconeogenic genes PEPCK and Glc-6-Pase.[40] Metformin is frequently used in research along with AICAR as an AMPK agonist. The mechanism by which biguanides increase the activity of AMPK remains uncertain; however, research suggests that metformin increases the amount of cytosolic AMP (as opposed to a change in total AMP or total AMP/ATP).[41]

In addition to suppressing hepatic glucose production, metformin increases insulin sensitivity, enhances peripheral glucose uptake, increases fatty acid oxidation,[42] and decreases absorption of glucose from the gastrointestinal tract. Increased peripheral utilization of glucose may be due to improved insulin binding to insulin receptors.[43] AMPK probably also plays a role, as metformin administration increases AMPK activity in skeletal muscle.[44] AMPK is known to cause GLUT4 translocation, resulting in insulin-independent glucose uptake. Some metabolic actions of metformin do appear to occur by AMPK-independent mechanisms; a recent study found that "the metabolic actions of metformin in the heart muscle can occur independent of changes in AMPK activity and may be mediated by p38 MAPK- and PKC-dependent mechanisms."[45]

Metformin is not metabolized, rather it is primarily excreted in the urine with an elimination half-life of 6.2 hours.[46]


[edit] Interactions
The H2-receptor antagonist cimetidine causes an increase in the plasma concentration of metformin, by reducing clearance of metformin by the kidneys;[47] both metformin and cimetidine are cleared from the body by tubular secretion, and both, particularly the cationic (positively charged) form of cimetidine, may compete for the same transport mechanism.[48] A small double-blind, randomized study found the antibiotic cefalexin to also increase metformin concentrations by a similar mechanism;[49] theoretically, other cationic medications may produce the same effect.[48]


[edit] Formulations

Metformin 500 mg tabletsMetformin IR (immediate release) is available in 500 mg, 850 mg, and 1000 mg tablets, all now generic in the US.

Metformin SR (slow release) or XR (extended release) was introduced in 2004, in 500 mg and 750 mg strengths, mainly to counteract the most common gastrointestinal side effects, as well as to increase patient compliance by reducing pill burden. No difference in effectiveness exists between the two preparations.


[edit] Combinations with other drugs
Metformin is often prescribed to type 2 diabetes patients in combination with rosiglitazone. This drug actively reduces insulin resistance, complementing the action of the metformin. In 2002, the two drugs were combined into a single product, Avandamet, marketed by GlaxoSmithKline.[50] In 2005, all current stock of Avandamet was seized by the FDA and removed from the market, after inspections showed the factory where it was produced was violating Good Manufacturing Practices.[51] The drug pair continued to be prescribed separately in the absence of Avandamet, which was available again by the end of that year.

In the United States, metformin is also available in combination with pioglitazone (trade name Actoplus Met), the sulfonylureas glipizide (trade name Metaglip) and glibenclamide (known as glyburide in the United States, trade name Glucovance), the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor sitagliptin (trade name Janumet), and the meglitinide repaglinide (PrandiMet). Generic formulations of metformin/glipizide and metformin/glibenclamide are available. A generic formulation of metformin/rosiglitazone from Teva has received tentative approval from the FDA, and is expected to reach the market in early 2012.[52]


[edit] References
1.^ Clinical Guidelines Task Force, International Diabetes Federation (2005). "Glucose control: oral therapy"PDF (100 KB). In: Global Guideline for Type 2 Diabetes. Brussels: International Diabetes Federation, 35–8. Retrieved on November 6, 2007.
2.^ National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. Clinical guideline 66: Diabetes - type 2 (update). London, 2008.
3.^ American Diabetes Association (2007). "Standards of medical care in diabetes—2007". Diabetes Care 30 Suppl 1: S4–S41. doi:10.2337/dc07-S004. PMID 17192377. http://care.diabetesjournals.org/cgi/content/full/30/suppl_1/S4.
4.^ a b Eurich DT, McAlister FA, Blackburn DF, et al. (2007). "Benefits and harms of antidiabetic agents in patients with diabetes and heart failure: systematic review". BMJ 335 (7618): 497. doi:10.1136/bmj.39314.620174.80. PMID 17761999. http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/335/7618/497.
5.^ Top 200 Generic Drugs by Units in 2006PDF (19.4 KB). Drug Topics (March 5, 2007). Retrieved on April 8, 2007.
6.^ (March 2007) WHO Model List of Essential MedicinesPDF (612 KB), 15th edition, World Health Organization, p. 21. Retrieved on 2007-11-19.
7.^ Witters L (2001). "The blooming of the French lilac". J Clin Invest 108 (8): 1105–7. doi:10.1172/JCI14178. PMID 11602616. Full text at PMC: 209536
8.^ Ungar G, Freedman L, Shapiro S (1957). "Pharmacological studies of a new oral hypoglycemic drug". Proc Soc Exp Biol Med 95 (1): 190–2. PMID 13432032.
9.^ U.S. Food and Drug Administration (December 30, 1994). FDA Approves New Diabetes Drug. Press release. http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/ANSWERS/ANS00627.html. Retrieved on 2007-01-06.
10.^ GLUCOPHAGE Label and Approval History. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved on 2007-01-08. Data available for download on FDA website.
11.^ Selvin E, Bolen S, Yeh HC, et al (October 2008). "Cardiovascular outcomes in trials of oral diabetes medications: a systematic review". Arch Intern Med 168 (19): 2070–80. doi:10.1001/archinte.168.19.2070. PMID 18955635.
12.^ "Effect of intensive blood-glucose control with metformin on complications in overweight patients with type 2 diabetes (UKPDS 34). UK Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) Group". Lancet 352 (9131): 854–65. 1998. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(98)07037-8. PMID 9742977.
13.^ Kilo C, Mezitis N, Jain R, Mersey J, McGill J, Raskin P (2003). "Starting patients with type 2 diabetes on insulin therapy using once-daily injections of biphasic insulin aspart 70/30, biphasic human insulin 70/30, or NPH insulin in combination with metformin". J Diabetes Complications 17 (6): 307–13. doi:10.1016/S1056-8727(03)00076-X. PMID 14583174.
14.^ DiPiro, Joseph T.; Talbert, Robert L.; Yee, Gary C.; Matzke, Gary R.; Wells, Barbara G.; Posey, L. Michael (2005). Pharmacotherapy: a pathophysiologic approach. New York: McGraw-Hill. ISBN 0071416137.
15.^ Stumvoll M, Nurjhan N, Perriello G, Dailey G, Gerich JE (1995). "Metabolic effects of metformin in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus". N Engl J Med 333 (9): 550–4. doi:10.1056/NEJM199508313330903. PMID 7623903. http://content.nejm.org/cgi/content/abstract/333/9/550.
16.^ a b Bolen S, Feldman L, Vassy J, et al (2007). "Systematic review: comparative effectiveness and safety of oral medications for type 2 diabetes mellitus". Ann Intern Med 147 (6): 386–99. PMID 17638715.
17.^ Lord JM, Flight IHK, Norman RJ (2003). "Metformin in polycystic ovary syndrome: systematic review and meta-analysis". BMJ 327 (7421): 951–3. doi:10.1136/bmj.327.7421.951. PMID 14576245. http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/327/7421/951.
18.^ Marchesini G, Brizi M, Bianchi G, Tomassetti S, Zoli M, Melchionda N (2001). "Metformin in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis". Lancet 358 (9285): 893–4. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(01)06042-1. PMID 11567710.
19.^ Ibáñez L, Ong K, Valls C, Marcos MV, Dunger DB, de Zegher F (2006). "Metformin treatment to prevent early puberty in girls with precocious pubarche". J. Clin. Endocrinol. Metab. 91 (8): 2888–91. doi:10.1210/jc.2006-0336. PMID 16684823.
20.^ National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. 11 Clinical guideline 11 : Fertility: assessment and treatment for people with fertility problems . London, 2004.
21.^ Nair S, Diehl AM, Wiseman M, Farr GH Jr, Perrillo RP (2004). "Metformin in the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis: a pilot open label trial". Aliment Pharmacol Ther 20 (1): 23–28. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2036.2004.02025.x. PMID 15225167.
22.^ Wu RR, Zhao JP, Jin H, et al (2008). "Lifestyle intervention and metformin for treatment of antipsychotic-induced weight gain: a randomized controlled trial". JAMA 299 (2): 185–93. doi:10.1001/jama.2007.56-b. PMID 18182600.
23.^ Jones G, Macklin J, Alexander W (2003). "Contraindications to the use of metformin". BMJ 326 (7379): 4–5. doi:10.1136/bmj.326.7379.4. PMID 12511434. http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/326/7379/4.
24.^ a b Weir J (March 19, 1999). Guidelines with Regard to Metformin-Induced Lactic Acidosis and X-ray Contrast Medium Agents. Royal College of Radiologists. Retrieved on 2007-10-26 through the Internet Archive.
25.^ a b Thomsen HS, Morcos SK (2003). "Contrast media and the kidney: European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR) guidelines". Br J Radiol 76 (908): 513–8. doi:10.1259/bjr/26964464. PMID 12893691. http://bjr.birjournals.org/cgi/content/full/76/908/513.
26.^ Salpeter S, Greyber E, Pasternak G, Salpeter E (2003). "Risk of fatal and nonfatal lactic acidosis with metformin use in type 2 diabetes mellitus: systematic review and meta-analysis". Arch Intern Med 163 (21): 2594–602. doi:10.1001/archinte.163.21.2594. PMID 14638559.
27.^ Drug Facts and Comparisons 2005 (59th edition ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. October 2004. ISBN 1-57439-193-3.
28.^ Wulffele MG, Kooy A, Lehert P, Bets D, Ogterop JC, Borger van der Burg B, Donker AJ, Stehouwer CD. (November 2003). "Effects of short-term treatment with metformin on serum concentrations of homocysteine, folate and vitamin B12 in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial". J Intern Med 254 (5): 455–63. doi:10.1046/j.1365-2796.2003.01213.x. PMID 14535967.
29.^ Andrès E, Noel E, Goichot B (2002). "Metformin-associated vitamin B12 deficiency". Arch Intern Med 162 (19): 2251–2. doi:10.1001/archinte.162.19.2251-a. PMID 12390080.
30.^ Gilligan M (2002). "Metformin and vitamin B12 deficiency". Arch Intern Med 162 (4): 484–5. doi:10.1001/archinte.162.4.484. PMID 11863489.
31.^ Ting R, Szeto C, Chan M, Ma K, Chow K (2006). "Risk factors of vitamin B(12) deficiency in patients receiving metformin". Arch Intern Med 166 (18): 1975–9. doi:10.1001/archinte.166.18.1975. PMID 17030830.
32.^ Spiller HA, Quadrani DA (2004). "Toxic effects from metformin exposure". The Annals of pharmacotherapy 38 (5): 776–80. doi:10.1345/aph.1D468. PMID 15031415.
33.^ Gjedde S, Christiansen A, Pedersen SB, Rungby J (2003). "Survival following a metformin overdose of 63 g: a case report". Pharmacol. Toxicol. 93 (2): 98–9. doi:10.1034/j.1600-0773.2003.930207.x. PMID 12899672.
34.^ Harvey B, Hickman C, Hinson G, Ralph T, Mayer A (2005). "Severe lactic acidosis complicating metformin overdose successfully treated with high-volume venovenous hemofiltration and aggressive alkalinization". Pediatr Crit Care Med 6 (5): 598–601. PMID 16148825.
35.^ Guo PY, Storsley LJ, Finkle SN (2006). "Severe lactic acidosis treated with prolonged hemodialysis: recovery after massive overdoses of metformin". Semin Dial 19 (1): 80–3. doi:10.1111/j.1525-139X.2006.00123.x. PMID 16423187.
36.^ Kirpichnikov D, McFarlane SI, Sowers JR (2002). "Metformin: an update" (PDF). Ann Intern Med 137 (1): 25–33. PMID 12093242. http://www.annals.org/cgi/reprint/137/1/25.pdf. Retrieved on 2008-12-30.
37.^ Hundal R, Krssak M, Dufour S, Laurent D, Lebon V, Chandramouli V, Inzucchi S, Schumann W, Petersen K, Landau B, Shulman G (2000). "Mechanism by which metformin reduces glucose production in type 2 diabetes" (PDF). Diabetes 49 (12): 2063–9. doi:10.2337/diabetes.49.12.2063. PMID 11118008. http://diabetes.diabetesjournals.org/cgi/reprint/49/12/2063.
38.^ Towler MC, Hardie DG (2007). "AMP-activated protein kinase in metabolic control and insulin signaling". Circ Res 100 (3): 328–41. doi:10.1161/01.RES.0000256090.42690.05. PMID 17307971. http://circres.ahajournals.org/cgi/content/full/100/3/328.
39.^ Zhou G, Myers R, Li Y, Chen Y, Shen X, Fenyk-Melody J, Wu M, Ventre J, Doebber T, Fujii N, Musi N, Hirshman M, Goodyear L, Moller D (2001). "Role of AMP-activated protein kinase in mechanism of metformin action". J Clin Invest 108 (8): 1167–74. doi:10.1172/JCI13505. PMID 11602624. http://www.jci.org/cgi/content/full/108/8/1167#SEC4.
40.^ Kim YD, Park KG, Lee YS, et al. (2008). "Metformin inhibits hepatic gluconeogenesis through AMP-activated protein kinase-dependent regulation of the orphan nuclear receptor SHP". Diabetes 57 (2): 306–14. doi:10.2337/db07-0381. PMID 17909097. http://diabetes.diabetesjournals.org/cgi/content/full/57/2/306.
41.^ Zhang L, He H, Balschi JA (2007). "Metformin and phenformin activate AMP-activated protein kinase in the heart by increasing cytosolic AMP concentration". Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 293 (1): H457–66. doi:10.1152/ajpheart.00002.2007. PMID 17369473. http://ajpheart.physiology.org/cgi/content/full/293/1/H457.
42.^ Collier CA, Bruce CR, Smith AC, Lopaschuk G, Dyck DJ (2006). "Metformin counters the insulin-induced suppression of fatty acid oxidation and stimulation of triacylglycerol storage in rodent skeletal muscle". Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 291 (1): E182-E189. doi:10.1152/ajpendo.00272.2005. PMID 16478780.
43.^ Bailey CJ, Turner RC (1996). "Metformin". N Engl J Med 334 (9): 574–9. doi:10.1056/NEJM199602293340906. PMID 8569826.
44.^ Musi N, Hirshman MF, Nygren J, et al. (2002). "Metformin increases AMP-activated protein kinase activity in skeletal muscle of subjects with type 2 diabetes". Diabetes 51 (7): 2074–81. doi:10.2337/diabetes.51.7.2074. PMID 12086935. http://diabetes.diabetesjournals.org/cgi/content/full/51/7/2074.
45.^ Saeedi R, Parsons HL, Wambolt RB, et al. (2008). "Metabolic actions of metformin in the heart can occur by AMPK-independent mechanisms". Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 294 (6): H2497–506. doi:10.1152/ajpheart.00873.2007. PMID 18375721.
46.^ Heller, Jacqueline B. (2007). "Metformin overdose in dogs and cats". Veterinary Medicine (April): 231–233. http://www.aspca.org/site/DocServer/vetm0407_231-234.pdf?docID=11061.
47.^ Somogyi A, Stockley C, Keal J, Rolan P, Bochner F (1987). "Reduction of metformin renal tubular secretion by cimetidine in man". Br J Clin Pharmacol 23 (5): 545–51. PMID 3593625.
48.^ a b "Glucophage Side Effects & Drug Interactions". RxList.com. 2007. http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/metformi_ad.htm. Retrieved on 2007-11-19.
49.^ Jayasagar G, Krishna Kumar M, Chandrasekhar K, Madhusudan Rao C, Madhusudan Rao Y (2002). "Effect of cephalexin on the pharmacokinetics of metformin in healthy human volunteers". Drug Metabol Drug Interact 19 (1): 41–8. PMID 12222753.
50.^ GlaxoSmithKline (October 12, 2002). FDA Approves GlaxoSmithKline's Avandamet (rosiglitazone maleate and metformin HCl), The Latest Advancement in the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes. Press release. http://www.docguide.com/news/content.nsf/news/8525697700573E1885256C4F0075B2B3. Retrieved on 2006-12-27.
51.^ U.S. Food and Drug Administration (March 4, 2005). Questions and Answers about the Seizure of Paxil CR and Avandamet. Press release. http://www.fda.gov/oc/qanda/PaxilandAvandamet.html. Retrieved on 2006-12-27.
52.^ Reuters (September 27, 2007). Teva Pharm announces settlement of generic Avandia, Avandamet, and Avandaryl litigation with GlaxoSmithKline. Press release. http://www.reuters.com/article/inPlayBriefing/idUSIN20070927170530TEVA20070927. Retrieved on 2009-02-17.

[edit] External links
Pharmacy and Pharmacology portal
Metformin at the Open Directory Project
Metformin drug information from Lexi-Comp. Includes dosage information and a comprehensive list of international brand names



[hide]v • d • eOral anti-diabetic drugs and Insulin analogs (A10)

Insulin Sensitizers Biguanides Metformin · Buformin‡ · Phenformin‡

TZDs (PPAR) Pioglitazone · Rivoglitazone† · Rosiglitazone · Troglitazone‡

Dual PPAR agonists Aleglitazar† · Muraglitazar§ · Tesaglitazar§


Secretagogues Sulfonylureas 1st generation: Carbutamide · Chlorpropamide · Gliclazide · Tolbutamide · Tolazamide
2nd generation: Glipizide · Glibenclamide (Glyburide) · Gliquidone · Glyclopyramide

3rd generation: Glimepiride

Meglitinides/"glinides" (K+) Nateglinide · Repaglinide · Mitiglinide

GLP-1 analog Exenatide · Liraglutide† · Albiglutide†

DPP-4 inhibitors Alogliptin† · Linagliptin† · Saxagliptin† · Sitagliptin · Vildagliptin


Analogs/other insulins fast acting (Insulin lispro · Insulin aspart · Insulin glulisine) · long acting (Insulin glargine · Insulin detemir) · Inhalable insulin (Exubera)‡ · NPH insulin


Other Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors Acarbose · Miglitol · Voglibose

Amylin analog Pramlintide

SGLT2 inhibitor Dapagliflozin† · Remogliflozin† · Sergliflozin†

Other Benfluorex · Tolrestat‡


†Undergoing clinical trials. ‡ Withdrawn from market. §Development halted.


Retrieved from "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metformin"
Categories: Anti-diabetic drugs | Guanidines | World Health Organization essential medicines
Hidden categories: Articles containing potentially dated statements from 2008 | All articles containing potentially dated statements | Articles containing potentially dated statements from 2007Views
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[buttermeup]

The weight loss is so slight. I can't believe people would even think of taking this medication. you guys should really read more.



Byetta: Can diabetes drug also help me lose weight?Tell me about the diabetes drug Byetta. Can it really help people who have diabetes lose weight? Is it only available to people who have diabetes?
Answer
Although taken by injection, exenatide (Byetta) is not insulin. Byetta improves blood sugar control by mimicking the action of the hormone incretin. Among other things, Byetta allows insulin to work more effectively in the body.

In studies, Byetta not only improved blood sugar control but also led to weight loss. It's unclear exactly how Byetta causes weight loss, but one effect of the drug is that it delays the movement of food from the stomach into the small intestine. As a result, people taking Byetta may feel "full" faster and longer, so they eat less. The most common side effect of Byetta is mild to moderate nausea, which improves with time in most people. Rarely, Byetta may cause harmful inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).

Byetta is designed for people who have diabetes and has not been studied as a weight-loss aid in people who have normal blood sugar. If you have diabetes and wonder if Byetta may be helpful, talk to your doctor.

[buttermeup]

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Metformin Plus Weight Loss Intervention Reduces Symptoms of Metabolic Syndrome in Obese Children


Bryan DeBusk
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June 20, 2008 (San Francisco) — A 6-month trial has demonstrated that twice-daily metformin in conjunction with a monthly weight loss intervention significantly improves 3 markers of metabolic syndrome in severely overweight children with hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance.

Lead investigator Jack Yanovski, MD, PhD, head of the Developmental Endocrinology Branch of the National Institutes of Health Unit on Growth and Obesity presented the results of the study here at ENDO 2008, the Endocrine Society 90th Annual Meeting.

"There are several studies that suggest that metformin treatment leads to weight loss or weight stabilization in diabetic and nondiabetic adults," Dr. Yanovski explained in his presentation. "There are also some small, randomized clinical trials in adolescents that have found that metformin induces small weight reductions of about 3 kg or 1.5 [body mass index (BMI; kg/m2)] units. However, there are no randomized trials that have been carried out in younger children to test the effects of metformin on body weight."

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial enrolled 100 overweight children (60% girls, 11% Hispanic, 3% Asian, 40% black) aged 6 to 12 years (mean, 10.2 ± 0.5 years) between October 2000 and April 2007. Researchers obtained baseline BMI, lipid levels, body composition, and glucose homeostasis for each patient before and after 6 months of treatment with either 1000 mg of metformin twice a day (n = 53) or placebo (n = 47). A dietician administered a monthly weight loss program for participants in both groups.

At the end of the 6-month treatment program, participants who received metformin achieved a reduction in BMI (−0.91 ± 0.3 kg/m2), whereas BMI increased among participants who received placebo (+0.23 ± 0.3; P = .006). The metformin-treated group also achieved improved BMI z-scores (−0.11 ± 0.02 vs −0.04 ± 0.02; P = .02) and reduced body fat mass (−1.4 ± 0.7 kg vs +2.1 ± 0.7 kg; P < .001).

At 6 months, the researchers also observed improvements in serum glucose levels (metformin, −2.4 ± 0.9 mg/dL; placebo, +1.6 ± .2 mg/dL; P = .018) and insulin resistance, as measured by the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (metformin, −0.19 ± 0.4; placebo, +0.95 ± 0.4; P = .05). In addition, metformin induced a reduction in total cholesterol levels (metformin, −9.9 ± 2.7; placebo, +1.1 ± 4.8; P = .04).

Although the number of reports of nausea, fatigue, and liquid stools was initially higher among participants receiving metformin, this number declined over time and did not affect retention in the study. Approximately 15% of patients withdrew from the study because of a lack of parental support or insufficient weight loss, and retention was similar between the 2 treatment groups (84% metformin, 86% placebo).

All participants received a daily vitamin throughout the study to limit metformin-induced vitamin B12 deficiency. Although serum vitamin B12 concentrations in the metformin group decreased by 7226 pg/mL, Dr. Yanovski noted that levels remained within the normal range for all participants throughout the study. Vitamin B12 levels in the placebo group increased by 7730 pg/mL (P < .001).

After his presentation, Dr. Yanovski received several questions from the audience about the safety of metformin use in children, including its potential for producing lactic acidosis. Dr. Yanovski noted that lactate levels remained normal in all participants throughout the study.

Speaking to that concern, Robert Lustig, MD, session moderator and professor of clinical pediatrics in the University of California at San Francisco's Division of Endocrinology, said that the risk of lactic acidosis from metformin use in children has probably been overstated. "I asked the [US Food and Drug Administration] about this, and there has not been a description of lactic acid in a child to date," Dr. Lustig relayed.

Although the risk profile for metformin use appears to be acceptable, and the study demonstrated that metformin can be used in combination with a weight loss intervention to improve some aspects of metabolic syndrome, Dr. Yanovski cautioned that the results are not sufficient to recommend broad changes for clinical practice.

"Even though the differences in BMI z-scores were evident by the third month and continued through the sixth month in these severely overweight children, none of them achieved weight approaching the 95th percentile, which would be the demarcation for obesity in children," he explained. "We believe that data from longer trials are needed before metformin can be recommended as a routine treatment for obese children."

Dr. Yanovski and Dr. Lustig have disclosed no relevant financial relationships.

ENDO 2008: The Endocrine Society 90th Annual Meeting: Abstract OR25-2. Presented June 16, 2008.




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Bryan DeBusk is a freelance writer for Medscape.


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[buttermeup]

Metformin has active ingredient which are isolated and identified. This compound belongs to a group of drugs called the biguanides. Metformin consists of two linked guanidine rings. Even though it has been used to treat diabetes for more than 3 decades the exact mechanisms of action remain more or less a mystery and it is only recently that the scientists have been able to diagnose the same. Metformin has a number of different effects on glucose metabolism. As a result of this there is improved insulin sensitivity in tissues like muscles and liver.

Advantages of Metformin also include decrease in gluconeogenesis or the synthesis of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources by the liver. The overall effect of Metformin helps to decrease glucose levels. But since Metformin is a euglycaemic agent, blood glucose levels don\'t fall below normal and hence Hypoglycaemic episodes do not occur. It also has various benefits on lipid metabolism and hence the lowering of circulating fatty acids occurs. It also helps to reduce VLDL which is also involved in causing cardiovascular disease like circulation of fatty acids.

There are various reasons for being overweight one of them is insulin. This form of fat is stored primarily in your belly. As the person eats, the blood sugar level rises. The more the level rises, the more insulin is released in the pancreas. Insulin can make you fat by acting on the brain to stimulate signs of hunger. This leads to the liver manufacturing fat and the fat cells in the belly to fill with fat. The best way to treat this form of obesity is to avoid foods that cause the highest rise in blood sugar. Taking medications that prevent rise of blood sugar levels from is also suggested.

All forms of bakery products, pastas, and foods made from flour, fruit juices and products with added sugar should be avoided. Fruits and root vegetables such as potatoes should be consumed only with meals. The sugar eaten by the body comes to intestines through the bloodstream, and into the liver.

Metformin contains glucophage which reduces sugar release from the liver to reach the blood sugar levels and raise them too high. Hence the body doesn\'t need to produce as much insulin that makes you hungry. Hence the liver does not convert sugar to fat. There are various other benefits of Metformin apart from curing diabetes and it is loosing weight. But Metformin is not effective when blood is acidic due to excess lactic acid. There are various researches which show that exercises raises lactic acid but does not cause blood acid levels high enough to reduce benefits of Glucophage.

Metformin helps in lowering insulin levels which are very helpful in curing diabetes. Metformin is also an effective treatment for different kinds of diabetes. Since it acts at the source of the problem it helps to fight insulin resistance and also prevents and delays the onset of type 2 diabetes which leads to impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance. It also helps to reduce risk of diabetes-related death, heart attacks and strokes various other diseases.

STOP all pointless exercises and useless diets. It's time for you to try something that actually works. Click Here Now to learn how to lose weight easily.

[buttermeup]

three reasons to read about this medication (at least):

It may block weight gain induced by psychiatric medications.
It may lead to weight loss for people who've experienced such weight gain.
It may actually treat some mental health symptoms.
(Update June 2007: a possible fourth reason has recently been described by several bipolar experts, who note that medications for diabetes could have protective effects on the brainMcIntyre --particularly in patients who have illnesses where a shrinking of connections between brain cells, or sometimes even loss of these neurons in particular brain regions, is thought to be part of the underlying problem, as is now the case in mood disorders (see my series of essays on brain chemistry for more on this)).

Metformin was used recently as an "antidote" to weight gain induced by several different medications.Morrison It was remarkable effective in that one, small, uncontrolled (no placebo group) study -- meaning that these results should be interpreted with caution. Fifteen of the 19 patients lost weight, and some who continued metformin lost 10-30 pounds. [Update February 2007: another article came out recently with a larger group of adolescent patients, and a control group. Again, the results were quite striking..Klein Overall, there was no weight loss, but the placebo group continued to gain weight, leading to a quite striking difference. Insulin resistance, thought to be related to "metabolic syndrome", which goes along with the weight gain and represents a significant risk for cardiovascular disease, also did not increase in the metformin group, while increasing in the placebo group.

Someone asked me recently at a meeting about metformin, and I mentioned that my early experience with about 10 patients had not been very impressive. However, on the basis of this new study, I think trying it again for patients who are stuck on an atypical antipsychotic may be warranted. In this more recent study, patients had been on their atypical antipsychotics for months, and were even sometimes on other weight gain inducing medications such as lithium or Depakote. Perhaps they did not show any weight-loss because they were all adolescents, and should be growing (age range 10 to 17). They were clearly different from the control group, both statistically and in terms of clinically meaningful differences. For example, over four months, the control group gained about 10 pounds, while the metformin group gained none.

There are other reasons to be interested in this medication. A patient wrote me who had responded 20 years ago to the precursor of metformin (phenformin, removed from the market quickly because of risks which are fortunately much lower in metformin; see Lactic Acidosis below). She had "foggy mindedness" and difficulty concentrating which responded dramatically to phenformin. Note that she had "mental" symptoms, but was given a medication which affects insulin, and she got better. Her 3 children all had symptoms suggestive of Bipolar II, one diagnosed as such, and all 3 seemed to benefit from phenformin. Here's her letter, if you're interested (used by permission).

Her experience and that of her children illustrates how this medication may actually be a treatment in itself for complex mental health symptoms. For more on that possibility, read the essay on Metabolic Syndrome -- Causes Mental Health Symptoms?

Metformin is a medication given for the treatment of diabetes. Sometimes it is used for people who only have "insulin resistance". In this condition, people have difficulty responding to their own insulin. As a result, the body releases even more insulin trying to make up for this problem. However, insulin has many effects around the body.

One of these insulin effects may change a person's "metabolism" in very profound ways. Excess insulin can induce something called "metabolic syndrome". In younger women, this is sometimes recognized through infertility, or growing excess hair, and in that setting is called "Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome" (PCOS). Not everyone who has insulin resistance gets PCOS or metabolic syndrome, or diabetes – but many do.

Metformin can decrease this "insulin resistance". It can restore fertility. It can decrease excess hair growth and other body changes. In some cases this medication can decrease abdominal obesity, or at least assist people in their efforts to control their weight. In some people it can suppress appetite somewhat. It is now being tested for use with medications that commonly increase appetite and weight.

[FairBlue]

Buttmeup writes: Wow, i have just read the entire thread and I am amazed how stupid all of you are.

You're kind of rude, don't you think?

[sparklynJM]

Every one keeps wondering about the use of metformin/glucophage for wieghtloss even if you don't have type two diabetes or PCOS. The reality is you don't know unless you try. Why are you overwieght? There could be a number of reasons. The body is so incredibly complex. Try the metformin - if it helps you that means that part of the reason you are overwieght is because of insulin resistance - if it doesn't help then thats not your deal. and... Doctors do NOT know everything. I often times feel that after going online and resarching stuff before going to the doctor about my problem i know more then they do - it can be kind of irratating. Dont be afraid to speak up to your doctors about what you have researched - print off some articles from credible online sources to show them. Also, i see lots of people talking about the atkins diet, which makes sense given the way our bodies work if we have insulin resistance -- you might want to check out the affects of dairy -- i've read quite a bit that if you have a real insulin resistance problem you might want to avoid that as well. For me I find that near impossible! I love cheese so much. I have been diagnosed with PCOS since i was 16 - I think i have always had an issue with the way my body produces insulin - i was just looking through some old medical records -- i was only ten lbs lighter and same hieght at the age 14 -- I'm 27 now am 5'5" and wiegh about 215. I have never had a period on my own (amenorrhea). when i was in college i did some research and came across metformin and wanted to give it a try, the doc said ok but it made me really sick -- I think the problem for me was that no one ever told me to maybe try with smaller doses and work my way up -- he just prescribed a 500 mg pill in the morning and one at night... I was sicker then a dog!!!! Now, being older and wiser i started metformin back up about two weeks ago now... start with very small doses (1/4 of a 500 mg pill a day) and slowly am working my way up.... i'm now to 1/2 a pill in the morning and then one at night.... I think this is SO important for not getting sick!!! i haven't yet.... your body is adjusting to a pretty major change .... it needs to do it gradually so it doesn't get some kind of shock! I also purchased an electronic 17.00 copy of "The Natural Diet Solution for PCOS and Infertility" by Nancy Dunne and Bill Slater great book with TONS of information, even if you dont have pcos but maybe diabetes run in your family or you think you might have insulin resistance. for me that book is too hard core -- there is no way i could follow it to a tee -- but, you pick up some things from it you can apply to your life and it makes you think of some things differently -- highly recommended! ....... ok, I know i've kind of been going on and on :o) enough writing for tonight... I will let you guys know how it's going for me...Hopefully i will lose some wieght on this stuff this time :o)

[AprilT]

A little history first! I was diagnosed w/ Pcos Oct 05' during surgery for cysts and endometriosis. I was in a very bad place in my life due to a job with the postal service..High stress wouldn't even begin to explain what I was going through, even today I start to cry thinking about it. I LOVED what I did, BUT I HATED where I worked!! If they called me today and asked me to come to work because they needed my help I'd go! HOW SICK IS THAT!
Anyway...long story short after surgery I used all my leave up which I had quite a bit being I'd never called in sick in nearly 7 years and quit January 06' when I used it all up! Being that I'd removed myself from the high stress job I felt that I was fine and the Pcos which MINE is aggravated by stress would be okay and then I got pregnant in March 06' and things just went fine I gained 23 pds in my preg. I was happy, low stress, got a lot of things accomplished, and felt like I was fine. Let me say we had never tried to get pregnant prior to this, but my doc fills like we wouldn't have gotten preg. the first try if I hadn't had the surgery and the low stress life style at the time! During my preg. the doc after testing thought I was border line gestational diabetes..but after weeks of blood testing I learned lots about myself. If I don't eat when I first fill hungry my blood sugar rises and then will after awhile drop very low...so I ate as needed to control this..which worked well and I had a great preg. no problems! After the birth of my son Jan 07', I nursed and lost some weight 5-10 lbs less than pre baby weight, but within a few months of his birth stress returned to my life around May 07' and has only gotten worse and in the past year I'm right back where I was in October 05' stress wise anyway! ALL DUE TO THE ECONOMY!
I'd forgotten about the PCOS.. and for awhile I've been noticing my hair thinning, acne for the first time in my life and I'm 30, weight gain in my stomach again a first for me, skin tags, crazy emotions! at first I thought it was from having my son..But --After watching something on TV I realized I'd forgotten about having PCOS and haven't been treating it and it ALL MADE SENSE! The stress I'm under is causing it to flare up! So I made an appointment with my doc to have a pap etc and get what meds I needed for the PCOS. So my appointment last week was my first one since the birth of my son in Jan 07'. I got my med filled last night and took one 500mg Met this am in the middle of breakfast and it's been a little over 2 hours so far so good. I almost didn't take it scarred of being sick, and I started my period today as well. But I figured I feel like crap and sick to my stomach on my period anyway so who would be the wiser!
I want everyone to know I researched this med last night and this am before taking it to be sure it was right for me! I'm funny... taking meds is serious to me...the thought of taking something possibly the rest of my life is major to me! So after my research I believe it's my answer!!!! I've dieted with friends and ate better and worked out harder to only lose a fraction compared to others! I've always for the most part kept my weight stable, I've always ate decent, only drink water, and very active, but have always had trouble losing weight!!!! Now in addition to not able to lose weight I'm gaining in my stomach, I have crazy acne, thinning hair, and skin tags....Sexy I don't think so- LOL!!
So far so good no bad side effects yet! I'm taking a smaller dose for the first 2 weeks and gradually moving up. I also will be taking it in the middle of my meals! Which I have to do with everything I take! I don't think anyone should take this if they don't have blood sugar issues! Again meds are serious! Not only did my doc see my ovaries during surgery but I've also tested my BS levels many times a day and realize there's an issue, and I plan on getting my meter out and will be testing them again during the early phases of this new med treatment! To the original girl who started this format April W in 03' I also have the sweet tooth especially after eating! After reading on many sites the symptoms vary from female to female, but I share many issues that others have. I'm excited to get myself BACK and don't just mean weight I want all my bodies issues to get better! I will post again and let you know how things are going and will be blowing the dust off my Atkins book! It seems from my research the low carb diet is very important for treating PCOS and for the Met. to work well and not get sick form the Met.. I've given up on diets in the past! but I will give it a go again. Happy trails! Good luck to all...be safe! IT IS WHAT IT IS!

[Tonya B]

13lbs in 3weeks that is great. I have 500mil glucophage that I want to start taking to lose weight to, I just wasn't sure if it really work. It is still working for you?
Congrats

[MsTwacky]

WooHoo...!! I lost 14lbs. already...!!! :thup:

Good for you. Was it the Metformin? Or were you lowcarbing and changing your eating habits? ;)

I'm not saying that it doesn't level the playing field. It does. If you are IR or have PCOS...it helps. But it is not the sole cause of weight loss FOR ME. I have low carbed without it and lost weight.

Wow, i have just read the entire thread and I am amazed how stupid all of you are. Do you not read the drug information?? :clap: :lol: :lol: :lol:

You posted waaaaay too much stuff but I found that to be funny actually but I don't think they are stupid.

I do think people are hopeful. We want help.

I am taking meds myself right now so who am I to talk?

I take metformin. But not for weight loss. I take 2000mg a day so that's why I find it odd that these people think 250mg or 500mg or going to help them lose weight. I'm sure it will if they ALSO change their eating habits like the lady who started the thread back in 2003.

I believe in Meds. The are useful tools. But you have to use the right tools to get the job done.

[RKC]

Hi weight watchers!!
I came to know about metformin a few days back....did some research & found it can be of help in cases where nothing has been yielding results...
Dying to see my endocrinologist to seek his advice!!

[Nifty50]

All of us are concerned with our health and well being, and I too, began to research Metformin online and found this blog. Thanks so much, all the notes have been helpful.

Sometimes you feel alone in the battle of weight loss and sudden weight gain. I am in menapause, and being 50, I am learning so much about the weight gain, mood swings, and flashes (power surges) the past few years. These are some of the things our mothers never told us, including being unable to sleep.

I was on Adkins and did lose weight, but over the past few years, my weight has ballooned and I look as if I am about to pop. My face is also puffy.

Seriously eliminating calories and being very strict with my exercise and diet helped me lose 15 lbs, but that has been it. I also have arthritus in my knee, so I can not exercise as long or as hard as I use to.

So I thought it may be wise to see an endrocronologist and have my thyroid levels tested.

Due to low TSH levels I was prescribed Synthroid 6 weeks ago. Today during my follow up visit, I was prescribed Metformin 500 to take with breakfast and dinner. It's my understanding that this medicine should be taken with food as to avoid an upset stomach and feelings of nausea.

My Dr. is concerned with my weight and said I am on the verge of diabetes, so we are trying to avoid this. I am optimistic that with the combo of thyroid medication and Medformin, my meetings with a nutritionist, and my dedication to healthy eating and fitness, I should be well on my way to better health.

I will continue to update you on my progress, and look forward to hearing about yours as well.

[AnnabelLee]

Hey Guys...! Well, I did it...!! I'm down to 147lbs...Still have quite a ways to go but I lost 40lbs already.. :agree:

It was a combination of the Met and increased exercise...I am so proud of myself...but here's a tip...If I could do it YOU GUYS can do it...!! Don't give up... :p

[cnthutson]

I was just diagnosed with PCOS on July 13, 2009 and was prescribed Metformin. This drug is typically for diabetes but known to help PCOS and promote weight loss. I am just curious if anyone else on this site has PCOS and if so were they prescribed Metformin? did they lose weight? and did they begin to have normal menstrual cycles again? I have been taking this since Friday 500mg twice a day. Until today I felt fine. Today I have been a little nauseas........ still seem to have the same appetite. I am very frustrated as I am 5'11 and weigh 257 lbs. I coach softball and attend a gym and am not lazy by any means......but have consistently put on about 20 to 25 lbs for the past three years........ It is depressing. Can anyone offer any thoughts........especially if you have the same problem and are on the same medication. I need some hope..........thanks

[Nifty50]

Hi April,

I am following a low carb diet and taking 1000 mg of Metaformin a day. I have lost a few lbs and have had no side effects. I exercise as well.

I take my medicine with food, which is key. I have lost inches and no longer have a bloated look. I am also sleeping well, which may be a result of the Metaformin or the thyroid medicine I am on.

Good Luck!

[kasstout]

when i started taking the metformin back in may, i was sicker than a dog! but i stuck with it and eventually the side effects went away. i had been stuck between 200 and 195 for a few months at that time. once i started the met, i dropped to 185 in about a week!. of course recently i got attacked by a bag of mini snickers and saw about a 4lb gain, so im not letting myself be so liberal at this time. i like the met and wat it does for me, i definitly think it helps!

[thebionicb]

I'm getting ready to start on it, myself, purely for weight loss. I am an active VLCer, fewer than 20 grams of carb a day, and STILL have signs of insulin resistance. We shall see...

[leelanau]

I took Met (1500mg extended release) for years, and didn't see any weight loss other than the five pounds caused by dehydration at the beginning. When I took Met and ate carbs together, I would have the worst gastro issues! Over months it became obvious to me, every time I ate carbs, I was sick for the next 24 hours. The doctors didn't believe me, but I stopped taking it for that very reason.

Met also didn't keep me from gaining weight, didn't help reduce the amount of body hair, and didn't regulate my periods. I also had just as many migraines as before taking it. The main reason I stopped was the gastro issue.

It didn't make sense to pay for a medication that didn't do a darn thing for me, and in fact, made me more uncomfortable than going without.

[cnthutson]

UPDATE......I was diagnosed with PCOS on August 13th. I began Metformin on the 14th. I have had no real problems with this medicine at all. Can tell a difference in stools. But no sickness. I actually feel like I sleep better. I don't feel as bloated as I used too everydday. BUT I have not lost any weight......however I do feel like my appetite is changing, like I don't crave food like I did before (could be from medicine). Not discouraged yet as I do feel like I have more energy.......we'll see how the next couple weeks go. I will keep posting

[thebionicb]

I would love to know how you do on met.

[mwahine]

History:
I first started low carbing in college. Worked fantastic, then I would start binging on sweets.

For years I've felt like I was insulin resistant. For the past 15 years it didn't seem like low-carbing worked anymore.

I started Metformin 2 days ago and have been trying to find others like me. Doctor prescribed for weight loss due to weight gain from another prescription. The interesting thing is that my father is type 2 and it definitely runs in our family. I have also had uterine cysts (not sure if it's related to PCOS).

The depressing thing is that I think I am more hungry and it has not cut my cravings for sugar.

Anyway, I was so excited to find this board and this thread! I'll go back and read the other pages ... :wave:

[thebionicb]

I'm on Met for weight loss. My low-carb diet, which I've been on for a year, quit working when I was prescribed estrogen cream after a total hysterectomy. I'm on 250 mg a Met to start. This is only day 2. No side effects yet, and I notice that it keeps my blood sugar around 83 - 84. I was a type 2 diabetic years ago, but the low-carb lifestyle keeps it at bay. I still test my blood sugar every day just to be sure. I hope that the Met helps with whatever the stupid estrogen is doing to me. On 1500 calories a day, and fewer than 20 grams of carb a day, I gained 10 pounds. Grrrr!

[mwahine]

Wow, i have just read the entire thread and I am amazed how stupid all of you are. Do you not read the drug information??

I love it when people quote Wikipedia ... hellooooo ... anyone can edit a wiki.

And I guess I'll let my doctor know how stupid he is by prescribing Metformin specifically for weight loss, because you know, he probably hasn't read the drug information provided on Wikipedia and Medscape.

I work in the medical device and pharmaceutical industry. We hear about "experts" who read information from Wikipedia, Medscape, etc. all the time - what? no WebMD or foreign journal quote?

Day 2: tired, no GI problem but feel bloated. Too scared to check the scale, I think I started higher than I estimated.

[thebionicb]

Day 3 - No bad side effects yet, except that I'm tired. I've actually gained a pound. ?