What are the reasons for weight loss caused by metformin?

Metformin is commonly available in tablet form. Generally, the main reasons metformin causes weight loss include suppressing appetite, reducing intestinal absorption, improving insulin resistance, alleviating gastrointestinal reactions, and assisting in the treatment of obesity-related diseases. If weight loss is excessive or accompanied by discomfort, it is recommended to promptly visit a正规 hospital to adjust the treatment plan. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Appetite Suppression

Metformin acts on the central nervous system, decreasing the excitability of the appetite center and reducing food intake, which can easily lead to weight loss with long-term use. It is important to maintain regular meals, ensure adequate intake of protein and dietary fiber, and avoid malnutrition caused by reduced appetite.

2. Reduced Intestinal Absorption

The medication inhibits the absorption of nutrients such as glucose and fat in the intestines, reducing the amount of energy obtained by the body, thereby leading to weight loss. Blood glucose and lipid levels should be regularly monitored under a physician's guidance to avoid metabolic disorders caused by insufficient nutrient absorption.

3. Improved Insulin Resistance

In patients with insulin resistance, metformin enhances cellular sensitivity to insulin, thereby lowering insulin levels in the body. A high insulin state easily leads to fat accumulation; when insulin levels decrease, fat breakdown increases, resulting in weight loss. Combining moderate exercise, such as brisk walking or swimming, 3-5 times per week for 30 minutes each time, can enhance the effectiveness of improved insulin sensitivity.

4. Alleviating Gastrointestinal Reactions

Some patients may experience gastrointestinal reactions such as nausea, diarrhea, and bloating after taking metformin, leading to reduced food intake and indirect weight loss. Under medical guidance, the timing or dosage of medication can be adjusted to reduce gastrointestinal irritation. If symptoms are significant, switching to a metformin extended-release formulation may help reduce the incidence of gastrointestinal side effects.

5. Adjunctive Treatment for Obesity-Related Diseases

For patients with comorbid obesity-related type 2 diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome, metformin can reduce fat accumulation by regulating metabolism while treating the primary condition, resulting in weight loss. Patients with type 2 diabetes should regularly monitor blood glucose levels and may combine metformin with other medications such as gliclazide tablets or acarbose tablets under medical guidance to control blood sugar and prevent weight loss from affecting glucose stability.

In daily life, it is important to track weight changes by weighing at the same time each week. If weight loss exceeds 5% monthly, prompt medical attention is needed. Maintain a balanced diet without excessive dieting, follow a regular sleep schedule to avoid exacerbating weight fluctuations due to metabolic disturbances, and attend regular follow-up appointments to adjust medication plans according to physical condition.