Scientists warn about common diabetes drug metformin

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Researchers from the University of Waterloo have highlighted a critical caution for doctors using metformin, a diabetes drug increasingly being explored as a treatment for cancer.

While metformin shows potential in certain cancer cases, it can have unintended effects in others, underscoring the need for personalized treatment approaches.

Metformin has long been prescribed to manage diabetes, helping regulate blood sugar levels. In recent years, its potential in cancer therapy has garnered attention. Early studies suggest it may slow tumor growth by targeting cancer cell metabolism.

However, this new research emphasizes that metformin’s effects are not universal and may vary depending on the type of cancer and the individual patient’s characteristics.

The study found that in some cancers, metformin might protect tumor cells rather than fight them. This counterproductive effect occurs because metformin can shield cancer cells from stress, allowing them to survive and potentially thrive.

As a result, doctors must carefully assess whether metformin is the right choice for a particular patient.

To better understand these complexities, the researchers used computer-simulated models that mimic how metformin interacts with cancer cells.

These virtual experiments allow scientists to explore the drug’s effects on different types of tumors and patient profiles before testing it on real patients.

The approach accelerates clinical research and provides valuable insights for doctors, helping reduce trial-and-error in treatments.

The findings underscore the importance of precision medicine, an approach to healthcare that tailors treatments to each individual.

Factors like a patient’s age, gender, genetics, and even subtle biological differences can influence how a drug works. This means no single treatment, including metformin, will be effective for all patients or all cancers.

Doctors need to move beyond a one-size-fits-all mindset when prescribing treatments like metformin. For some patients, it could offer significant benefits, while for others, it might pose risks. Evaluating the patient’s unique circumstances is essential to ensure the best outcomes.

The research, published in BioMed Central Cancer and led by Mehrshad Sadria, highlights how advancements in technology and precision medicine can help refine cancer treatments.

While metformin’s role in oncology remains promising, its use must be guided by careful analysis and personalized care.

This study serves as a reminder that medicine is rarely straightforward, and treatments must be adapted to suit individual needs. With further research and careful application, metformin may become a valuable tool in cancer care—when used with the right patients for the right cancers.

If you care about diabetes, please read studies that MIND diet may reduce risk of vision loss disease, and Vitamin D could benefit people with diabetic neuropathic pain.

For more information about diabetes, please see recent studies that Vitamin E could help reduce blood sugar and insulin resistance in diabetes, and results showing eating eggs in a healthy diet may reduce risks of diabetes, high blood pressure.

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