Can meformin (diabetes drug) help to alleviate weight gain side effects of atypical antipsychotics?

12 Feb 2011

Short quick answer is unfortunately no... in my humble opinion.

12 Feb 2011

As per my last response re metformin. I do not believe that this drug has the capabilities of lessening the chance of diabetes either type 1 or type 2 neither will it curb your weight as in the majority of cases weight loss is solely up to the individuals own efforts and whilst some drugs help some people I would not generalise and say this drug does this and that drug does that especially when it comes to weight gain or loss

James

12 Feb 2011

Hey sideffects,

Common side effect of metformin is possible weight gain. It has some interaction with antipsychotics as the antipsychotic can decrease the effectiveness of the metformin resulting in hyperglycemia, glucose intolerance, new-onset diabetes mellitus, and/or exacerbation of already existent diabetes. Close monitoring of the patient's glycemic control is necessary when using these medicines together.

So my answer to your questions is no, it will not alleviate weight gain and may well affect glucose blood levels.

Laurie