Metformin, a widely prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes, may offer an additional benefit by reducing the risk of Long COVID in individuals with diabetes. A recent study, supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and published in Diabetes Care, indicates that metformin use is associated with a 13% to 21% lower incidence of Long COVID or death within six months of contracting COVID-19.
The research team, led by Stephen Johnson from the University of Minnesota, analyzed electronic health records of nearly 76,000 adults with type 2 diabetes who were taking metformin. These individuals were compared to a control group of over 13,000 diabetes patients using other anti-diabetes medications. The primary outcome measured was the diagnosis of Long COVID or death within six months post-COVID-19 infection.
The findings suggest a significant association between metformin use and a reduced risk of Long COVID. While the exact mechanisms behind this protective effect remain unclear, researchers hypothesize that metformin may exert its influence by reducing inflammation, decreasing viral load, and suppressing the formation of disease-related proteins, according to a news release from the NIH.
Prior Evidence
This study bolsters previous findings from an NIH-supported clinical trial in 2023, which demonstrated that metformin treatment reduced Long COVID risk by approximately 40% in overweight or obese adults, most of whom did not have diabetes. The current research extends these observations to a specific population of individuals with type 2 diabetes, reinforcing the potential of metformin as a preventive measure against Long COVID.
Implications and Considerations
Long COVID, characterized by a diverse range of symptoms including fatigue, cognitive dysfunction (brain fog), and chest pain, affects millions of individuals and can persist for extended periods. Given the significant burden of Long COVID, identifying potential preventive strategies is crucial. This study suggests that metformin, a globally accessible and low-cost medication, may offer a valuable tool in mitigating the long-term consequences of COVID-19, particularly in vulnerable populations such as those with type 2 diabetes.
It is important to note that metformin can have side effects and should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the mechanisms of action and to determine the optimal use of metformin in Long COVID prevention.
