Metformin For Bodybuilding: Can It Be Used For Muscle Growth?

In this article, we will take a close look at Metformin, a widely used oral antidiabetic medication. We will explore its uses beyond diabetes management, including its potential benefits in various diseases such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, gestational diabetes, and even cancer prevention. We will also find out whether Metformin can benefit bodybuilding.

Author - Nithishwer Mouroug Anand

Nithish is a computational biochemist at the University of Oxford working on alchemical methods for protein-drug interactions.

Nithishwer used MediSearch to find sources for this blog.

MediSearch gives instant answers to medical questions based on 30 million scientific articles.

What is Metformin?

Metformin is a widely used oral antidiabetic medication, often prescribed as the first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes [1]. Metformin mainly works by reducing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues, thereby countering insulin resistance [2, 3, 4].

Uses of Metformin

As we discussed, Metformin has been used for over 60 years primarily to manage type 2 diabetes due to its ability to decrease plasma glucose levels [5, 6]. However, its uses extend beyond diabetes management.

Treating PCOS

One of the established uses of Metformin is in the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It helps improve insulin sensitivity, often impaired in individuals with PCOS [7].

Gestational diabetes

Metformin is also used in the management of diabetes during pregnancy, known as gestational diabetes. It helps control blood glucose levels, reducing the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery [7].

Preventing diabetes progression

In the context of prediabetes, Metformin is used to prevent the progression of type 2 diabetes. It helps maintain normal blood glucose levels and improves insulin sensitivity. Metformin is also used as an adjunct therapy in type 1 diabetes, where it may help reduce the required insulin dose [7, 8].

Cancer prevention

Emerging research suggests potential uses of Metformin in the prevention and treatment of various types of cancer, including breast, endometrial, bone, colorectal, and melanoma [5, 9].

Neuroprotective effects

In the realm of neurodegenerative diseases, Metformin shows potential therapeutic benefits for mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. It has been shown to improve mental function and reduce the incidence of dementia [10].

Treating various disease

Metformin has also been studied for its potential benefits in cardiovascular, renal, and infectious diseases like tuberculosis (TB) and COVID-19 [10].

However, it's important to note that while these potential uses are promising, more extensive studies are needed to confirm these additional benefits [11].