Some diet pills are downright dangerous, but the drug industry has been striving to develop diet pills that are effective and safe.
One of the most prescribed diet drugs is metformin. It is sold under the trade names Avandamet, Glucophage XR, Riomet, Fortamet, Glumetza, Obimet, Dianben, Diabex, and Diaformin). It is used by 42 million people in the United States alone, and it is sold worldwide. But is metformin safe? Here’s what you need to know before taking this diet pill.
Benefits of Metformin
Metformin reduces blood sugar levels, and is used to treat type II diabetes. It is usually subscribed to people who are overweight and obese, because it is the only diabetic medication that does not lead to weight gain. Scientists are also studying whether it can be safely used to treat gestational diabetes; some studies show that babies of mothers who took Metformin (under close supervision by their doctors, of course!) were born healthier.
Some studies have also found that diabetics who take metformin enjoy a 25% lower risk for pancreatic cancer. There are also some signs that it can help control hypothyroidism, which can also lead to weight gain.
But does Metformin actually lead to weight loss? While it can help diabetics prevent weight gain, research has yet to prove if it can be useful for those who don’t have the condition. Even the other so-called benefits of Metformin—it was once used to polycystic ovary syndrome and was believed to boost fertility because of increased ovulation—have yet to be proven.
Metformin side effects and risks
Metformin should not be used by anyone who has kidney disease, lung disease or liver disease. It can interfere with kidney function, and can lead to serious complications like lactic acidosis. Like all prescription medication, it should be taken under the close supervision of a doctor, who will weigh your risk factors and monitor you for any possible kidney damage. While Metformin is considered to be a safe diet pill, it can be potentially fatal for anyone who has undiagnosed kidney and liver disease.
People who have used Metformin say that it seems to be easier to tolerate than other diet drugs, and people report less side effects. However, about 50% experience diarrhea, while about 25% experience nausea. Only about 12% have reported gassiness, indigestion, or abdominal discomfort. For diabetics—who know that any weight gain can significantly increase their health risks—Metformin can be a lifesaver.
Photo from mein-diabetes-blog.de