Metformin is a drug used in the management of type 2 diabetes through regulation of blood glucose levels. However, it has attracted much attention for its possible use in weight loss especially for those who are overweight or have insulin resistance. Metformin is known to have an impact on weight and therefore it is crucial to know the truth about this drug and its effects. This article seeks to explain the reality of metformin side effects and its ability to help in weight loss.
What is Metformin?
Metformin is mainly utilized for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus through enhancing the action of insulin and decreasing hepatic glucose production/output. It has also been used off-label for patients with pre-diabetes, PCOS, or metabolic syndrome in the recent past. Perhaps one of the most interesting metformin side effects that people have reported is the ability of the drug to cause weight loss.
How Does Metformin Aid in Weight Loss?
It is not clear how effective is metformin for weightloss, but there are several possibilities. This is one of the ways that metformin might have contributed to weight loss since it is known to suppress appetite. Some of the users have noted that they experience a decrease in appetite when taking the drug, and this is obviously going to result in a decrease in the number of calories that are taken. Furthermore, metformin for weight loss may assist in the following ways: Metformin helps the body to use insulin better and thus prevents fat storage and enhances fat breakdown. However, it is important to understand that metformin for weight loss is best used in conjunction with diet and exercise. It is not a ‘magic bullet’ for weight loss but it can help in weight loss if used as part of a weight loss program.
Can You Lose Weight on Metformin?
Some people ask whether they can lose weight on metformin and the answer is yes, but the effectiveness of the drug may differ from one person to another. Research shows that those who use metformin could shed between 5-10% of their body weight in a year though some may only shed a little weight. The medication seems to be most effective in overweight or obese patients with insulin resistance or PCOS. But, it is important to note that one is not likely to lose a lot of weight just by taking metformin. It is more effective when used in conjunction with diet modification and exercise.
Metformin Side Effects
Metformin for losing weight is known to be safe but it has side effects. Some of the metformin side effects people may experience include:
Gastrointestinal Issues:
The side effects of metformin include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal discomfort which are the most frequently reported. Most of these metformin 500 mg side effects are temporary and disappear after a few weeks of using the medication.
Metallic Taste:
Some of the users have complained of a metallic taste in the mouth when they are using metformin, although this is usually a rare and short-lived effect.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency:
Metformin has been reported to reduce vitamin B12 levels when taken for a long time and this results in fatigue, weakness and neurological complications. It is recommended that if one is on metformin for an extended period, he or she should have his or her vitamin B12 levels checked.
Lactic Acidosis:
However, lactic acidosis is a very rare, but potentially fatal side effect of metformin. This is characterized by the accumulation of lactic acid in the blood and if not well handled, it can be fatal. Some of the signs are muscle aches, breathing issues, headaches, and nausea. This disease is more common in people with kidney or liver diseases.
Weight Changes:
Some people may lose weight when they are on metformin while others may not experience any change in their weight at all. Weight fluctuations may be due to better glycemic control, decreased food intake, or other factors such as diet and exercise.
Metformin Side Effects in Women
Metformin is used by women, especially those with PCOS, to treat symptoms of insulin resistance and to lose weight. The drug may also help in fertility in women with PCOS by helping in the regulation of ovulation in non-obese women. Nevertheless, side effects of metformin in women are almost the same as those in men. Some of the side effects associated with the use of this drug are gastrointestinal upset, vitamin B12 deficiency, and rarely dizziness. Women should also know that metformin causes changes in the menstrual cycle as the body adapts to hormonal shifts. Women with PCOS should always seek advice from their doctor regarding the side effects and benefits of any medication.
Tips for Maximizing Weight Loss on Metformin
If you and your healthcare provider have decided that metformin is the right choice for you, there are ways to maximize its weight loss potential:
Eat a Balanced Diet:
Metformin should be taken together with a low calorie diet that is composed of whole grain products, lean meats, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Exercise Regularly:
Exercise is important in weight loss, therefore, one should engage in moderate exercise for at least 150 minutes in a week.
Monitor Your Progress:
It is important to monitor your weight, diet, and exercise regime to check whether you are improving. It may require you to change your lifestyle for the better in order to get the best results.
Consult Your Doctor:
It is advisable to visit your doctor often to check on your progress and to rule out any severe side effects.
Conclusion
Metformin is a useful drug in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and enhancing the action of insulin. It can also help in weight loss for some people although the impact may not be very significant. Metformin weight loss is usually most successful when used in conjunction with other weight loss strategies such as diet and exercise. However, as with any drug, there are side effects that are associated with the drug and they should be taken into consideration. Thus, with the help of your doctor and proper decision-making, you can take metformin for managing your health.
