Metformin & Weight Loss:
Metformin belongs to the biguanide class of drugs.
In PCOS, it is often used off-label to address metabolic issues like insulin resistance.
It helps our body to use insulin effectively, which lowers blood sugar levels.
Lower insulin level in turn reduces the androgen levels and cure symptoms like belly fat, irregular periods, acne, and hair loss.
Metformin reduces fat production in the liver, which is often linked to increased visceral fat (fat around organs like the liver and stomach) in people with insulin resistance or PCOS. This helps in maintaining lean body mass. Studies have shown that Metformin users lost more abdominal fat than total body weight.
Metformin also reduces appetite and cravings, which helps in decreasing calorie intake and contributes to overall fat loss, including visceral fat. Now let’s talk about metformin dosage for PCOS weight loss.
Metformin Dosage for PCOS Weight Loss:
The usual starting dose is 500 mg/day, taken with meals to reduce side effects.
Dosage is gradually increased every 1–2 weeks to a maintenance dose of 1,500–2,000 mg/day (split into 2–3 doses).
The maximum daily dose for adults is 2.5 g (2,500 mg) and for adolescents, it is 2g/per day, based on clinical safety limits.
Precautions: Start with a low dose and increase it gradually. In the first week, take one dose of 500 mg daily. In the second week, take two doses per day, and in the third week, increase to three doses per day. Always take it with food. Taking Metformin with food slows its absorption, which reduces gastrointestinal side effects. Also, maintain your hydration, and drink at least 7-8 glasses of water daily to manage side effects like diarrhea. Always consult with the doctor before use.
Lifestyle + Metformin = Best Results:
Consume low-glycemic index foods, whole grains, proteins, and healthy fats. A healthy lifestyle helps in improving the efficiency of metformin. If you don’t make healthy changes in your diet, then metformin will not work.
Must Read: Foods to Avoid When Taking Metformin for PCOS
Side Effects of Metformin:
Metformin is generally well-tolerated, but it’s important to be aware of potential side effects.
Many individuals experience digestive disturbances, especially when starting metformin. These can include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Abdominal discomfort
- Loss of appetite
Some people report a metallic taste in the mouth.
Metformin can also cause Lactic Acidosis. This is a rare but serious condition that causes the buildup of lactic acid in the blood. Symptoms include: Muscle pain or cramping, difficulty breathing, unusual fatigue, and abdominal pain. Individuals with kidney or liver impairment are at higher risk.
Long-term use of metformin can also cause a deficiency of vitamin B12.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is metformin dosage for weight loss in non-diabetics?
The starting dosage for weight loss in non-diabetics is 500mg/per day. Dosage is gradually increased every 1–2 weeks to 1,500–2,500 mg/day. Research indicates that metformin can lead to weight loss in non-diabetic individuals, with average reductions of around 5.8 kg over six months.
What happens when I start taking metformin for PCOS?
When you start taking metformin for PCOS, it can help improve insulin sensitivity, which may lead to weight loss, more regular menstrual cycles, and ovulation. This improvement can enhance fertility and reduce symptoms like excessive hair growth and acne.
Can metformin reduce belly fat?
Metformin can help in weight loss and reduce visceral fat, including abdominal fat, particularly in individuals with insulin resistance or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Its effectiveness is enhanced when combined with a hypo-caloric diet and regular exercise.
What is the biggest side effect of metformin?
The biggest & common side effects of metformin are gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhea, nausea, and bloating.
What is the best time to take metformin for weight loss?
Metformin can be taken at any time of the day, but it is highly recommended to take it with morning or evening meals to prevent gastrointestinal issues.