Dementia affects more than 47 million people worldwide, a number that is expected to triple by the year 2050. The condition manifests as a decline in cognitive function, including memory loss, disorientation, and problems with communication.

Currently, there is no cure for dementia, but researchers are investigating possible treatments, one of which is a common drug called metformin.

What is Metformin?

Metformin is a medication that is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes. It assists in managing blood sugar levels by reducing glucose production in the liver and increasing insulin sensitivity.

The drug has been in use for over 60 years, and it is considered one of the safest and most effective drugs for diabetes. Apart from diabetes, metformin has been used for other indications, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome and gestational diabetes.

Studies Suggesting Metformin Could Treat Dementia

There is growing evidence that metformin could be effective in treating dementia.

A study published in 2018 by the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease showed that metformin promoted the growth of new brain cells and improved cognitive function in mice with Alzheimer’s-like symptoms. The mice caused by metformin had better memory and learning abilities than mice that didn’t receive metformin.

Another study published in the Annals of Neurology analyzed the connection between diabetes and dementia, and found that people with diabetes who took metformin had a lower risk of developing dementia compared to those who took other diabetes medications. Additional studies have shown that metformin might have neuroprotective properties, and it could prevent or delay the onset of dementia.

How Does Metformin Treat Dementia?

The exact mechanism by which metformin treats dementia is not yet fully understood. However, researchers believe that the drug might promote the growth of neurons in the brain, which could improve cognitive function.

Additionally, metformin might reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and insulin resistance, which are factors that contribute to the development of dementia.

Metformin’s ability to manage blood sugar levels might also play a role in treating dementia. High blood sugar levels can lead to damage in the blood vessels in the brain, which can cause cognitive decline.

By lowering blood sugar levels, metformin could reduce this damage and protect the brain from further damage.

Potential Side Effects of Metformin

While metformin is considered a safe medication for diabetes, it does have potential side effects that patients should be aware of. Some of the common side effects of metformin include:.

Stomach upset, such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
Muscle weakness or pains
Lactic acidosis, a rare but serious condition where lactic acid builds up in the bloodstream and can be life-threatening
Vitamin B12 deficiency, which can cause anemia, fatigue, and neuropathy

Conclusion

Dementia is a debilitating and incurable condition that affects over 47 million people worldwide. While there is no cure for dementia, researchers are investigating possible treatments, including the use of metformin, a common diabetes medication.

Studies have shown that metformin might promote the growth of brain cells, reduce inflammation, and delay the onset of dementia. However, it is important to note that metformin has potential side effects and should only be used under a doctor’s supervision. Additional studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of metformin in treating dementia.