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Metformin

Metformin

Metformin may be used off-label to minimize COVID-19 symptoms and reduce Long COVID risk.

Long COVID
Long COVID PreventionAcute COVID
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Pricing Example

RTHM Safety Assessment

Only charged if approved

$49

Pharmacy Cost

14-day supply + shipping

$5

Total for 14 days

With RTHM discount

$54

RTHM Safety
Assessment Fee

Paid every 90 days
(only charged if approved)

$49

Pharmacy
Cost

14-day supply + shipping, paid to the pharmacy

$5

Estimated total
for 14 days

With RTHM discount

$54

Minimize Acute COVID-19 Symptoms

Metformin offers antiviral properties that help reduce the severity of acute COVID-19 symptoms, lowering viral loads and minimizing complications.

Inflammation Reduction

Metformin exhibits anti-inflammatory effects, potentially mitigating systemic inflammation characteristic of acute COVID-19 and Long COVID.

Reduced Risk of Long COVID

Research shows that metformin reduces the risk of Long COVID by up to 53% when taken within the first week of infection.

Is Metformin right for me?

Metformin has been shown to help with:

  • Minimizing acute COVID-19 symptoms
  • Reducing viral load
  • Preventing Long COVID
  • Reducing inflammation

Patients experiencing acute COVID-19 or at risk of Long COVID may find metformin a safe and effective preventive treatment option.

Metformin has an excellent safety record but may cause mild side effects during the initial adjustment period, including:

  • Passing gas
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Heartburn
  • Headache
  • Loss of strength or energy
  • Low blood sugar
  • Muscle pain
  • Unpleasant metallic taste

Taking metformin with food can help mitigate these side effects.

You should not take metformin if you:

  • Have elevated lactic acid levels or a history of lactic acidosis.
  • Have severe kidney or liver disease.
  • Are taking insulin or have low blood sugar, as metformin may exacerbate these conditions.
  • Are undergoing radiologic procedures with contrast dye, as this may increase your risk of lactic acidosis.
  • Drink alcohol regularly, which may raise your risk of lactic acidosis.

Metformin operates through several mechanisms:

  • Gluconeogenesis Inhibition: Reduces glucose production in the liver.
  • Increased Insulin Sensitivity: Enhances cellular response to insulin.
  • Antiviral Properties: Reduces SARS-CoV-2 viral replication and load.
  • Anti-inflammatory Effects: Modulates systemic inflammation.
  • Gut Microbiota Modulation: Improves intestinal health and immune response.

These actions make metformin effective for diabetes management and a promising option for reducing the risk of Long COVID and minimizing acute COVID-19 symptoms.

Research Studies

Metformin demonstrated antiviral properties in a study where participants treated with metformin during acute COVID-19 experienced a fourfold reduction in viral load compared to the placebo group.

"Metformin and Antiviral Effects in Acute COVID-19"

View Study

Metformin exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that may mitigate systemic inflammation present in acute COVID-19 and Long COVID. These effects could reduce the severity of acute infections and the risk of Long COVID development.

"Metformin May Reduce Long COVID in Non-Diabetic Population"

View Study

Data presented at the 2024 Infectious Disease Week Annual Meeting revealed that metformin reduced the risk of Long COVID by 53% when prescribed within the first week of an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection.

"Metformin for Long COVID Prevention and Unveiling the potential pleiotropic effects of metformin in treating COVID-19: a comprehensive review"

View Study