This diabetes drug may lower death risk in older people

Credit: Unsplash+

Delirium is a serious condition that causes sudden confusion and disorientation. It can happen due to various factors, including infections, surgery, or underlying health conditions.

Now, researchers from Stanford University and other institutions have found that the diabetes drug metformin may help lower the risk of delirium and even improve survival rates.

Metformin is a commonly prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes. In addition to controlling blood sugar levels, previous studies have suggested that it may also slow down age-related disorders, improve brain function, and reduce mortality risk.

This new research adds to the growing evidence that metformin has benefits beyond diabetes management.

To explore the link between metformin and delirium, scientists analyzed data from 1,404 patients. They divided the participants into two groups: one group had type 2 diabetes but did not take metformin, while the other group had type 2 diabetes and was taking the medication.

The results showed that patients who had been taking metformin had a lower chance of developing delirium compared to those who were not on the drug. Additionally, those taking metformin had a lower risk of death, suggesting that the medication might improve overall survival in people with diabetes.

While these findings are promising, more research is needed to understand exactly how metformin helps prevent delirium. It is always important for individuals with diabetes to consult their doctors about the best treatment options.

Managing blood sugar levels through a combination of medication, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity is key to reducing health complications.

This study highlights another potential benefit of metformin, suggesting that it could be used not just to manage diabetes but also to protect brain health in older adults. The research was conducted by Takehiko Yamanashi and colleagues and published in the journal Aging.

If you care about diabetes, please read studies about Vitamin D and type 2 diabetes, and to people with diabetes, some fruits are better than others.

For more health information, please see recent studies that low calorie diets may help reverse diabetes, and 5 vitamins that may prevent complication in diabetes.

Copyright © 2025 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.