TDNet Discover

Background: Metformin is a widely used drug in the realm of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) for controlling blood glucose levels. More recently though, researchers have begun studying its use in other facets. Diseases being currently studied include malignancy, neurovascular disease, and cardiovascular disease.2 Purpose: The purpose of this research is to illuminate the value of metformin in patients with conditions other than Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Methods: The independent researchers of this Evidenced Based Clinical Review (EBCR) searched various sources over the course of several months. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were set and upon article discovery, the ‘Critical Appraisal Skills Programme’ (CASP) assessment tool was used to finalize articles.3 Results: The search ended with the discovery of 3 quality articles that examined a total of 1,981,768 subjects, including both diabetics and non-diabetics.4,5,6 The cancer survival outcomes article found that prostate and colorectal cancers most benefited from the addition of metformin when compared to a placebo.4 The dementia and cognitive impairment article displayed that in individuals with T2DM, the consumption of metformin depleted the risk of developing dementia and cognitive issues.5 The coronary artery disease article displayed decreased mortality in patients with heart failure when metformin was added, and overall showed that those taking metformin typically have fewer cardiovascular events.6 3 Conclusion: Overall, the findings of this EBCR point to multiple benefits that the addition of metformin can make to common disease processes. Prostate and colorectal malignancies, cardiovascular events, and negative cognitive changes are just a few of the atypical ailments that could greatly benefit from the addition of metformin. Further research on this medication and its “off-label” uses could change how it is viewed and used in the future of medicine.