Metformin: is it time to expand the indications?

Metformin: is it time to expand the indications?

A.F. Verbovoy, N.I. Verbovaya, T.V. Lomonova, Yu.A. Dolgikh

Samara State Medical University, Samara

Metformin is known as an antidiabetic drug since the middle of the last century. It is widely used in clinical practice concerning the treatment of carbohydrate metabolism disorders. The effect of this drug is due to its impact on insulin resistance, which is a key link in the type 2 diabetes mellitus pathogenesis. However, in the last two decades, there have begun to appear researches demonstrating its effect on many body systems. The article presents data concerning the possible expansion of indications for metformin prescription. Metformin has been shown to have a positive effect in Huntington’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease, and to improve cognitive function in stroke patients. The anti-inflammatory effect of this drug, its ability to protect blood vessels from inflammation and oxidative stress are described. Metformin also has a beneficial impact in cardiovascular pathology, has an anti-a therogenic mechanism of action, and reduces the risks of micro- and macrovascular complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Separately, metformin efficacy in various types of cancer should be noted. The article shows its ability to block the progression of various tumors. The question concerning the metformin impact on the aging process is discussed.

Keywords: metformin, biguanides, type 2 diabetes mellitus, Huntington’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, inflammation, oxidative stress, cardiovascular system, microvascular complications, oncology, aging.

For citation: Verbovoy A.F., Verbovaya N.I., Lomonova T.V., Dolgikh Yu.A. Metformin: is it time to expand the indications? RMJ. 2021;2:37–41.