Latest news with #metformin
Daily Mail
7 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Ozempic found to be better than approved therapies at slashing risk of disease affecting 7M Americans
Weight-loss GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic could be an effective safeguard against dementia in diabetes patients and help prolong lifespan, a study suggests. Diabetes has long been linked to dementia, with an increased risk of around 70 percent, due to high blood sugar levels that can damage vessels supplying blood to the brain, blocking the flow of oxygen. Traditionally, metformin has been used as a first line therapy for diabetes due to its established safety profile and cost-effectiveness, costing less than $25 per month for a typical dose. And recent studies found that it also helped to improve cognition and lower dementia or Alzheimer's risk in people with type 2 diabetes. However, the medication, prescribed 80 million times in the US annually, is known to cause a variety of side effects, including diarrhea, stomach ache and loss of appetite. Vitamin B12 deficiency is also a common side effect of taking metformin in higher doses or for long periods, with tiredness, muscle weakness, mouth ulcers and vision problems being among chief complaints. Now, a new study led by Taiwan-based Professor Szu Yuan Wu and published in the open access journal BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care, suggests GLP-1 receptor agonists might be a more effective remedy to safeguard against dementia than metformin by up to 25 percent. These type of drugs were also associated with lower death rates than metformin. GLP-1s - which mimic the effects of the hormone that stimulates insulin release, suppressing glucagon, and slowing stomach emptying - also have a range of other benefits including significant weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and potential cardiovascular benefits. But they too come with negative side effects, including vomiting, mood changes and vision problems. The researchers believe the new findings could help shape future clinical guidelines for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, especially with GLP-1 medication costs decreasing due to market competition. In the new study, the researchers drew on anonymized electronic health records from a global health research network (Trinetx) spanning the period 2004 to 2024 to track the development of dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes. The patients had been treated with either GLP-1s or metformin (there were 87,229 patients in each group with an average age of 58) for at least six consecutive months. From the data, the researchers found that GLP-1 drugs were associated with a significantly lower (10 percent) risk of developing dementia, overall, with an incidence of about 2.5 percent compared with an incidence of nearly five percent for metformin. And specifically, taking this type of drug was associated with a 12 percent lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, and a 25 percent lower risk of developing other non-vascular dementias than metformin use. Further in-depth analyses showed that these positive effects were evident across all age groups, but with the strongest effect among people over 60, women, and those of White ethnicity. Risk of death from any cause was also lower. Nearly five percent of those treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists died compared with nearly nine percent of those treated with metformin. With metformin, the researchers note that the benefits primarily derive through a variety of metabolic processes that impact the entire body. These include reducing glucose production in the liver, increasing insulin sensitivity, and influencing gut health. Meanwhile, GLP-1 receptor agonists exert direct effects on the central nervous system by crossing the blood-brain barrier. This allows them to act on GLP-1 receptors within the brain, influencing various functions. Therefore, this could make them a more effective solution than metformin, especially when it comes to dementia. This is an observational study, and as such, no firm conclusions can be drawn about cause and effect. And the researchers point out that the tracking period, while sufficient for observing dementia outcomes, may not fully capture long-term cognitive effects, especially given the progressive nature of Alzheimer's disease. They conclude: 'Given the severe societal, familial, and economic burden of diabetes-related dementia, these findings raise important considerations about the role of GLP-1 [receptor agonists] as first-line therapies in [type 2 diabetes] management. 'While further long-term studies are warranted to validate these results, integrating GLP-1 [receptor agonists] as primary therapeutic agents may represent a paradigm shift in preventing the cognitive complications of diabetes. 'Both medications demonstrate neuroprotective properties, such as reducing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, improving insulin sensitivity, and enhancing cerebrovascular health, which likely contribute to their benefits in overall dementia.'
Medscape
03-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Can Metformin Prevent Severe Morning Sickness?
TOPLINE: Daily metformin use in the month before pregnancy is associated with more than 70% reduction in risk for hyperemesis gravidarum in first pregnancies. The protective effect persists in second pregnancies with 82% lower risk, even after accounting for the high recurrence risk, while cannabis use and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors increase risk. METHODOLOGY: Researchers analyzed data from 5414 participants who reported on daily medication and substance use in the month prior to pregnancy and level of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Participants were recruited through the Hyperemesis Gravidarum Education and Research Foundation social media sites from January 2023 to September 2024. Analysis included logistic regression to estimate crude and multivariate associations between use of 32 common substances and severe nausea and vomiting of pregnancy/hyperemesis gravidarum. Final multivariate models incorporated tobacco use and maternal age, while number and type of additional drugs used and race/ethnicity showed minimal influence. TAKEAWAY: Prepregnancy metformin use was associated with more than 70% reduction in risk for hyperemesis gravidarum (adjusted relative risk [aRR], 0.29; 95% CI, 0.12-0.71; P = .007). Tobacco use showed significant reduction in risk (aRR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.30-0.86; P = .011), while selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were linked to increased risk (aRR, 2.41; 95% CI, 1.33-4.38; P = .004). Metformin use before a second pregnancy was associated with 82% lower risk for severe nausea and vomiting/hyperemesis gravidarum (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.18; 95% CI, 0.06-0.59; P = .005), even after adjusting for an 86% recurrence risk. Cannabis use (aOR, 3.48; 95% CI, 1.80-6.75; P < .001) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (aOR, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.12-3.04; P = .016) before a second pregnancy were associated with increased risk. IN PRACTICE: 'Metformin, which is routinely used pre- and post-conception, may be a safe and affordable treatment to offer patients with a prior history of hyperemesis gravidarum to decrease the chance of recurrence. Clinical trials are warranted to investigate metformin use prior to pregnancy to lower hyperemesis gravidarum risk, thereby mitigating the associated adverse maternal and offspring outcomes,' wrote the authors of the study. SOURCE: The study was led by Neelu Sharma, Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California in Los Angeles. It was published online in American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. LIMITATIONS: The hyperemesis gravidarum-enriched approach to participant recruitment may have introduced selection bias, as individuals with multiple occurrences may have been more likely to participate. However, the authors noted that similar recurrence rates were reported in previous prospective studies. Additionally, the indication, timing, and dosage for each medication or substance was unknown. While conditions commonly treated with metformin like diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome have been associated with increased risk for hyperemesis gravidarum, any confounding by indication would bias results upward rather than explain the observed inverse associations. DISCLOSURES: Marlena S. Fejzo disclosed being a consultant for NGM Biosciences, receiving stock and fee for service. The remaining coauthors reported having no conflicts of interest. This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.
Health Line
02-07-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Can Diabetes Cause a Metallic Taste in the Mouth?
A metallic mouth taste may be due to medication or oral hygiene issues. It can also be an early sign of diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body doesn't make enough insulin or use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that allows sugar to enter the body's cells, where it's then used for energy. When the body doesn't make enough or use insulin properly, sugar builds up in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar. Unmanaged diabetes or high blood sugar can cause a range of problems, such as nerve damage and kidney damage. However, these aren't the only side effects of diabetes. Some people with the condition may also develop a metallic taste in their mouths. Most common causes There are a few causes of a metallic taste in the mouth related to diabetes. Use of metformin Metformin is an oral medication commonly prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes. It reduces the amount of glucose (blood sugar) produced by the liver, helping lower blood sugar levels to a safe range. However, while metformin can stabilize blood sugar — thereby reducing the risk of serious diabetes complications — some people who take this medication complain of a metallic taste in their mouths. The reason isn't quite clear, but this taste disturbance is likely due to the prescription drug excreting into saliva. Often, the taste disturbance is temporary, with your natural taste returning after 1 to 2 weeks. Parageusia Parageusia is a taste disorder that can occur alongside diabetes. It's also known to cause a metallic taste in the mouth. However, what's the connection between parageusia and diabetes? Simply put, your central nervous system (CNS) affects how your brain perceives taste, and it's possible that unmanaged diabetes can affect your nervous system. Prolonged high blood sugar slowly damages the nerves in your body. This can include the nerves in the: eyes feet legs arms mouth Parageusia occurs when injury or damage to the CNS distorts taste and smell. Taste disturbances, such as a metallic taste in the mouth, develop when the nerves that affect taste become damaged. Oral health issues Oral health issues are another common cause of a metallic taste in the mouth. Many people think that diabetes only affects blood sugar. However, too much sugar in your blood can also cause problems with your mouth. Periodontal disease High blood sugar also increases the sugar level in your saliva. And if your saliva contains more sugar, you're at a higher risk for cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis. The latter two can cause a metallic taste in the mouth. Diabetic tongue Diabetic tongue is another oral health problem that can cause a metallic taste in the mouth. This occurs when a combination of excess sugar in your saliva and a dry mouth triggers oral thrush. Thrush develops when a naturally occurring fungus starts to grow out of control. It can affect the gums, tongue, and roof of the mouth. Will the metallic taste go away? A metallic taste in your mouth due to diabetes might improve over time. It all depends on the underlying issue. If you take the drug metformin, a metallic taste should subside after a few weeks once your body adjusts to the medication. If the taste disturbance doesn't improve, you are advised to speak with a medical professional. Adjusting your dosage or finding an alternative drug might improve your taste. If a metallic taste is due to sugar in the saliva, managing your diabetes can also help improve your taste. Additionally, if you develop an infection due to dental hygiene issues, consulting a dentist and treating the infection might improve your taste. If taste disturbance occurs due to nerve damage, the severity of nerve damage may determine whether your taste returns to what it was. Ways to reduce the taste Even if you adjust your medication, improve your oral hygiene, and take steps to control your blood sugar, a metallic taste in your mouth might not improve immediately. As you wait for your condition to improve, here are a few tips to help your food taste better: Use different herbs and spices when preparing meals to add additional flavor. Drink plenty of water or chew sugarless gum. This might improve a dry mouth and lessen the metallic taste in your mouth. When you're eating, use non-metallic utensils, which can help reduce a metallic taste. Treat colds, sinus infections, and allergies, which are conditions that can worsen a metallic taste. Eat your food cold. Some foods taste better at a lower temperature. When to talk with a professional Speak with a doctor if a metallic taste in your mouth does not improve after a couple of weeks. It's important that you don't ignore this taste disturbance, as it can indicate problems with blood sugar management. If you haven't been diagnosed with diabetes, yet you notice a metallic taste in your mouth, it's also recommended that you consult a medical professional. This taste disturbance is sometimes an early sign of diabetes.
South China Morning Post
30-06-2025
- Health
- South China Morning Post
Age-related hearing loss linked to protein deficiency, study finds
Scientists have discovered a key mechanism behind age-related hearing loss , and they say a common oral medication could delay its progression. In a study of crab-eating macaques, the team from China and the United States found that a gradual deficiency in a protein vital to receptor cells in the ear was a characteristic of cochlear ageing in primates. The researchers also found that it was possible to slow down age-related hearing loss in the monkeys by using a common diabetes medication called metformin, which they said had potential as a clinical treatment for the condition. 'Our study provides an in-depth characterisation of cellular and molecular ageing patterns in primate cochleae at an unprecedented single-cell resolution,' the team said in a paper published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Aging on June 20. 'These findings lay the foundation for the development of new treatments for presbycusis and provide the possibility of personalised medicine,' said study author Wang Si, a professor at the Capital Medical University-affiliated Xuanwu Hospital in Beijing.
Health Line
25-06-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Herbs and Supplements for Diabetes
Eating a well-rounded diet is essential for managing diabetes. However, certain supplements and herbs may provide additional benefits. In the past, type 2 diabetes was often referred to as adult-onset diabetes, but it's becoming increasingly common in children. This form of diabetes is caused when your body either resists insulin or does not produce enough. The result is high blood sugar levels, which can damage your organs and cause other complications. There is no cure. However, many people can manage their blood glucose levels with diet, exercise, and medication. Some of these medications include: insulin therapy metformin (Glucophage, Glumetza, others) sulfonylureas meglitinides A nutritious, balanced diet, physical activity, and maintaining a moderate weight are the first and sometimes the most important parts of diabetes treatment. But when those are not enough to maintain your blood sugar levels, a doctor can decide which medications will work best for you. Along with these treatments, people with diabetes have tried numerous herbs and supplements to improve their diabetes. Some of these alternative treatments are said to help: manage blood sugar levels reduce resistance to insulin prevent diabetes-related complications Some supplements have shown promise in animal studies, but there is currently only limited evidence that they have the above-mentioned benefits in humans. Using supplements for diabetes It's always best to let the foods you eat provide your vitamins and minerals. However, more and more people are turning to alternative medicine and supplements. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, few supplements have enough evidence to support their use to prevent or treat diabetes. Supplements should not be used to replace standard diabetes treatment. Doing so can put your health at risk. It's important to talk with a healthcare professional before using any supplements. Some of these products can interfere with other treatments and medications. Just because a product is natural does not mean it's safe to use. The following supplements have shown promise in improving blood sugar management and other diabetes-related complications. Cinnamon Chinese medicine has used cinnamon for medicinal purposes for hundreds of years. Numerous studies have determined its effect on blood glucose levels. A 2019 research review suggests that cinnamon helps lower fasting blood glucose levels. More studies are being done, but cinnamon is showing promise for helping treat diabetes. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH), 'Cinnamon should not be used in place of conventional medical care or to delay seeking care if you have health problems.' The NIH states this is particularly true for those living with diabetes. Chromium Chromium is an essential trace element used in the metabolism of carbohydrates. However, research on its use for diabetes treatment is limited. A 2020 review of literature involving 28 trials suggests chromium supplements may help reduce fasting glucose levels in those with type 2 diabetes. Vitamin B1 Vitamin B1 is also known as thiamine. Many people with diabetes are thiamine deficient. This may contribute to some diabetes complications. Increasing evidence also links low thiamine to heart disease and blood vessel damage. Thiamine is water-soluble. However, benfotiamine, a supplemental form of thiamine, is lipid-soluble. It more easily penetrates cell membranes. Some research suggests that benfotiamine can prevent diabetic complications. However, other studies have not shown any positive effects. Alpha-lipoic acid Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a potent antioxidant. Research suggests it may: reduce oxidative stress improve vision improve neuropathic symptoms decrease fasting plasma glucose (FPG) However, more research is needed. Furthermore, ALA must be taken with caution, as it can potentially lower blood sugar levels to dangerous levels. Bitter melon Bitter melon is used to treat diabetes-related conditions in regions such as Asia, South America, and others. However, human data on bitter melon have been limited. Research conducted in 2020 suggests that bitter melon helped lower glucose levels in people living with type 2 diabetes. However, this study was fairly small. More research is needed before a definitive conclusion can be made. Green tea Green tea contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants. The main antioxidant in green tea is known as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Laboratory studies have suggested that EGCG may have numerous health benefits, including: lower cardiovascular disease risk improved glucose management better insulin activity Resveratrol Resveratrol is a chemical found in wine and grapes. In animal models, it helps prevent high blood sugar. Animal studies have also shown that it can reduce oxidative stress, but human data is limited. It's too soon to know if supplementation helps with diabetes. Magnesium Magnesium is an essential nutrient found in many foods. Research suggests supplemental magnesium may improve glucose levels in those living with diabetes. It may also improve insulin sensitivity in those at risk. Eating foods rich in magnesium is always a good idea. But talk with a healthcare professional before taking magnesium supplements. Too much can be dangerous and lead to side effects like nausea and diarrhea. Frequently asked questions Below are some frequently asked questions about herbs and supplements for diabetes. What supplements may help with diabetes? Supplements like cinnamon, chromium, vitamin B1 (benfotiamine form), alpha-lipoic acid, bitter melon, green tea, resveratrol, and magnesium may be beneficial for those living with diabetes. But it's important to talk with your healthcare professional before adding any supplements to your routine. Supplements like cinnamon, chromium, vitamin B1 (benfotiamine form), alpha-lipoic acid, bitter melon, green tea, resveratrol, and magnesium may be beneficial for those living with diabetes. But it's important to talk with your healthcare professional before adding any supplements to your routine. Are there any natural remedies for diabetes? Many people have found success with lifestyle modifications and natural remedies to manage diabetes. Eating a nutritious, balanced diet, exercising regularly, reducing stress levels, and supplementing with certain vitamins and minerals may all be helpful. Always talk with a healthcare professional before making changes to your diabetes treatment plan. Many people have found success with lifestyle modifications and natural remedies to manage diabetes. Eating a nutritious, balanced diet, exercising regularly, reducing stress levels, and supplementing with certain vitamins and minerals may all be helpful. Always talk with a healthcare professional before making changes to your diabetes treatment plan. Are there any over-the-counter treatments for diabetes? Diabetes is a complex condition and cannot be treated with over-the-counter medications. It's important to work with a healthcare professional on an individualized treatment plan. However, certain vitamins, minerals, and supplements may help support diabetes management. Diabetes is a complex condition and cannot be treated with over-the-counter medications. It's important to work with a healthcare professional on an individualized treatment plan. However, certain vitamins, minerals, and supplements may help support diabetes management. Outlook Supplements may have the potential to help manage diabetes. Talk with your healthcare professional before taking any supplements, as some have the potential to interact with other medications or cause side effects. Additionally, do not substitute supplements for medications without a doctor's approval. Keep in mind that more research is needed to understand the potential benefits of these and other supplements on diabetes management.
