Latest news with #metformin
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.
Medical News Today
23-06-2025
- Health
- Medical News Today
Rapamycin may extend lifespan as effectively as dietary restrictions
Research is ongoing about potential strategies to prolong life. A meta-analysis found that the drug rapamycin prolongs life in several vertebrate appeared to prolong life at a level similar to dietary restrictions. How to prolong life is a key area of scientific research. Experts are interested in medications that have the potential to boost longevity.A recent meta-analysis published in Aging Cell explored how rapamycin and metformin influenced longevity among several results confirmed that dietary restriction appears to prolong life and that rapamycin offers similar benefits. Researchers also found that metformin did not seem to prolong life. More research is required to see how rapamycin might help boost longevity in people. Rapamycin: Does it increase lifespan?In this paper, researchers note that decreasing food intake without malnourishment appears to prolong life but that this strategy is difficult for people to stick to. Thus, looking into possible medications that produce similar effects is an area of research. The two medications that were the focus of this analysis were rapamycin and metformin. According to the National Cancer Institute, rapamycin has a few functions, such as being an immunosuppressant and antibiotic, and it can help people who get helps with type 2 diabetes management. This analysis involved a systematic literature search to find relevant data. The final analysis included data from 167 papers looking at eight total vertebrate species, seeking to see how both medications affected longevity and how they compared to dietary extracted information on average and median lifespan from the papers. For this analysis, the two types of dietary restriction were caloric reduction and fasting, and researchers also sought to see if the results differed based on the sex of the animals involved. The data came from animals like mice, rats, turquoise killifish, and rhesus macaques. Overall, there were more males studied than females. There was also the most data on dietary restriction, and the most common type of dietary restriction was decreasing the number of calories. Regarding dietary restriction, the findings suggested great variation regarding the effects. Overall, researchers found that dietary restriction and rapamycin had a similar impact and appeared to contribute to prolonged life. Metformin appeared to only have a minimal impact on life from one metformin model, there appeared to be no consistent differences between male and female animals regarding longevity. Study author Zahida Sultanova, PhD, a Leverhulme Early Career Research Fellow with the University of East Anglia, in the United Kingdom summarized the key findings of the study to Medical News Today: 'We checked whether the two best-known 'diet-mimic' drugs increase lifespan similar to eating less in animals. By pooling data from 167 studies, we found that rapamycin is almost as reliable as eating less for increasing lifespan, whereas metformin is not. In other words, a compound that was extracted from soil bacteria 50 years ago seems able to copy many of the biological effects of a permanent diet, at least in lab animals.'Do the same benefits apply to people?This research analyzed animal data but did not include data about people. Additionally, most of these studies involved these animals in a laboratory setting and only looked at a small number of meta-analysis was also the work of only three researchers, sometimes with only one researcher doing a component of the work, which could have impacted the had the least amount of data on metformin, so more research about this medication might be helpful. They also operated under the assumption that if a paper did not specify male or female subjects, it was a mixed group, which could have been incorrect. The authors further note that the 'results were sensitive to how lifespan was reported.' Researchers also acknowledge strong publication bias and a lot of heterogeneity. Additionally, the type of measure used in study reporting affected results. In one measurement, the impact on life extension disappeared for the most part, the authors did not find a consistent difference in results based on the sex of the animals. They explain this could be because of 'differences in taxonomic groups studied […] and the calculated effect size.' Sultanova noted the following cautions regarding the findings: 'This study includes a high number of scientific studies conducted on different organisms such as mice, fish and monkeys. However, survival results in humans are not included because these drugs were not tested in humans for lifespan extension. Even if they are, the studies will take a long time considering the length of human lifespan. So, we do not recommend people to take rapamycin before the results of human trials consistently show that there are no side effects.'Why is it hard to study rapamycin in humans?Researchers suggest the need for research involving other species in natural and laboratory settings. They also note the need to understand the difference in impact for 'different strains of the same species exposed to the same treatment.'Future research can further focus on the differences between rapamycin and metformin and why they impact lifespan differently. More research into the differences in rapamycin's results in males and females could be helpful as well. More research can be done to see if rapamycin can promote prolonged life in people, but there may be some challenges in this Ali, MD, a board-certified general surgeon, bariatric surgeon, and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, who was not involved in the study, told MNT that it 'shows the contribution of the immune system to lifespan, as rapamycin is an immunosuppressive medication.'According to him: 'The most logical next step is to explore the findings in humans; however, this would be a difficult study to design as rapamycin is a medication used in specific cancers and organ transplant and has significant side effects.'Despite this, the results show a potential benefit of rapamycin that warrants more explained that: 'Clinically, that puts rapamycin (and the mTOR pathway it targets) at the front of the queue for future anti-ageing therapies in humans. The compound had already been used for organ-transplant patients, so medical professionals understand its potential side effects.''The next step is waiting for the results of ongoing human trials that test lower and intermittent doses of rapamycin and refining the compound to 'rapalog' versions that keep the benefits while omitting side-effects such as immune suppression,' she told us.'Another important next step would be developing drugs that are similar in structure and function to rapamycin but without the side-effects. Scientists have already started refining rapamycin and producing the so-called rapalogs,' Sultanova noted.
