Can people without diabetes take metformin to lose weight

People without diabetes are generally not recommended to take metformin to lose weight. Metformin is a prescription drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Its weight loss effect is limited and there may be adverse reactions.

Metformin reduces blood sugar by inhibiting liver glycogen output and improving insulin sensitivity, which may be accompanied by moderate weight loss in some obese diabetes patients. However, the insulin level in non diabetes population is normal, and the mechanism of drug action does not match the weight loss demand. The incidence of common gastrointestinal reactions such as diarrhea and nausea is high, and long-term use may interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12. The effect of weight loss varies from person to person. Most studies show that the average weight loss of non diabetes people does not exceed 5%, and it is easy to rebound after drug withdrawal. A very small number of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome may use metformin as a short-term metabolic regulator under the guidance of a doctor, but strict monitoring of liver and kidney function is necessary. Self medication without evaluation may lead to serious complications such as lactic acidosis, especially for those at risk of heart and kidney dysfunction, alcohol abuse, or dehydration.

Dietary adjustments and exercise interventions should be prioritized for healthy weight loss. It is recommended to control total calorie intake daily, increase the proportion of whole grains and fruits and vegetables, and engage in 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise per week. If medication intervention is needed, you can consult a doctor to choose nationally approved legal weight loss drugs and avoid using hypoglycemic drugs without authorization.