Can Glucophage Be Used for Weight Loss?

Glucophage, a brand name of the drug metformin is a medication prescribed by a physician to help reduce weight as a result of health problems like diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome and insulin resistance.

Statistics

Approximately 70 to 80 million Americans have insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome, which may involve obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, cardiovascular problems or polycystic ovarian syndrome, according to WebMD.com.

Conditions

Patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes often struggle with weight problems. Glucophage may be prescribed to help regulate insulin levels in the body.

Purpose

Glucophage can lower the glucose level while increasing insulin sensitivity, which alters hunger and may lower the tendency to overeat. One of the side effects of taking Glucophage may be weight loss, although it is not a primary benefit.

Function

Glucophage is believed to work by decreasing the absorption of carbohydrates through the intestines, reducing the liver’s production of glucose and increasing the muscle cells sensitivity to insulin. As a hormone, insulin delivers glucose to cells throughout the body so that it can be stored or burned for energy. In some cases, insulin builds up inside the body.

Considerations

Glucophage may help patients lose more weight, especially with a low-carbohydrate diet and regular exercise. Glucophage helps move glucose throughout the body and lowers insulin levels. High levels of glucose in the blood can contribute to obesity, cardiovascular problems, diabetes and other health issues.

Side Effects

Unfortunately, Glucophage does have several side effects, including nausea, upsetting the stomach and diarrhea.

References

• WebMD: Insulin Resistance and Diabetes
• WebMD: Glucophage Oral
• Diabetes Monitor: Metformin Questions and Answers