A healthy, active lifestyle can help ward off some age-related illnesses; however, biological processes will continue to happen on a cellular level no matter how many times we exercise or whether or not we eat organic food. Metformin, a drug that's been used to treat diabetes since the Middle Ages, has demonstrated anti-aging benefits that target the biological processes associated with aging.
Metformin has been used extensively since the 1950s. This drug is derived from natural compounds in the French lilac plant. It is an FDA approved drug and first-line treatment against Type II diabetes. It has an outstanding safety record and is one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the world, used as a monotherapy or in combination with insulin or other anti-hyperglycemic agents. Metformin is also listed on the World Health Organization's Model List of Essential Medicines as one of the most effective, safe, and cost-effective therapies.
In addition to being an effective treatment for diabetes and having an anti-hyperglycemic effect, Metformin modulates several fundamental pathways that are disrupted during aging and with chronic disease. Research has proposed that Metformin should be repurposed to treat aging as a whole and age-related diseases like cognitive decline, cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. Metformin is also able to activate longevity pathways as well as reduce the risk of macrovascular disease.
The drug has been studied for years, primarily in regards to its use when treating diabetes. However, more recently research has started to look at the multiple Metformin anti aging benefits.
Metformin and Anti-Aging Research
Studies have demonstrated anti-aging benefits when taking Metformin. In 2019, a study looked at Metformin use and exercise. The study compared two groups; one that took Metformin and exercised and one that did not take Metformin and exercised. The results found that those taking Metformin built less muscle mass than those who were not taking it. Another study was conducted a year later with similar results. Although those taking Metformin still gained muscle, they did not gain as much. This was specific to bulk, not strength, as each gram of Metformin muscle was more efficient than those who did not take it.
A recent study published in Aging found that when taken, Metformin may alter age-associated deficits and ultimately improve muscle function. This study called The Metformin to Augment Strength Training Effective Response in Seniors (MASTERS) Trial was a randomized, double-blind, and controlled trial. It compared the effects of Metformin to a placebo for a 14-week period of progressive resistance exercise training (PRT).
The participants consisted of healthy men and women over the age of 65. They were then randomly assigned the placebo or Metformin for 14 weeks. For seven days, the participants taking Metformin were titrated up to the target dose receiving 850mg. After this week, they were given two tablets a day (1700 mg) for the remaining 13 weeks.
For 14 weeks, these participants completed their PRT under the supervision of trained personnel. In order to determine the effects of Metformin, vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were taken before the trial began, 2 weeks into the trial, and again 3 days after the trial was finished. These same biopsies were compared to those of young individuals matched for BMI.
The results found training-induced transcriptional changes in skeletal muscle - Metformin had altered skeletal muscle adaptations at the transcriptomic level. The results were also consistent with the previous study and observed a decrease in physical gains. Despite the decrease in gains, researchers discovered that gene sets that are differentially regulated by training and Metformin might promote health benefits.
The special effect on the muscle transcriptomic response may alter age-associated deficits in muscle metabolism, ultimately improving muscle function. Those taking the drug had increased the expression of genes responsible for modulating aging-relevant pathways. This included cellular senescence and autophagy. This study demonstrated that in the case of older-adults, taking Metformin with exercise is healthier than not taking it. This study had identified yet another anti-aging benefit of Metformin.
Metformin works on a cellular level. Every organism has a balance of anabolic and catabolic processes. Anabolic processes generate energy, where catabolic processes use that energy. When energy intake is low, and cells aren't able to keep up with demand, this balance becomes especially important. To avoid crisis, biological austerity measures are implemented. In doing so, limited resources are relocated from growth and reproduction to survival and self-preservation. When in this state, orgasms have shown resistance to age-onset pathologies.
Metformin is able to recreate this effect by reducing metabolic reactions, which slows down the conversion of macronutrients to energy. This means there is less ATP produced, and when there is less ATP production, an enzyme called AMPK is activated. AMPK senses when a cell has low energy levels and then will activate pathways that implement austerity measures. This, in turn, promotes several energy production benefits including mTOR1 inhibition, decreased IGF-1 signaling, reduction in the accumulation of oxidative damage, and slowing the rate of DNA damage.
This drug targets a number of age-related mechanisms and has protective effects against age-related diseases. As one of the safest prescription medications, this drug is accessible for most of the population. Typically, those looking to start taking Metformin will begin with a smaller dose and then ramp up under the guidance of a doctor. Americans are able to purchase Metformin online from an online telemedicine clinic like AgelessRx.com. After completing an online questionnaire, a doctor will review your medical history and health background to determine if you are a suitable candidate. If you are, you will receive a prescription, and Metformin will be delivered to your home.
The recent study published in Aging is further proof of the incredible anti-aging benefits of Metformin. Many individuals who take the drug have noticed an improvement in energy levels as well as weight loss. This is a promising discovery for older adults looking to feel good and maintain their health into their older years. Considering the safety record and history of this drug, it's worth trying!
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