The impact of metformin on weight and metabolic parameters in patients with obesity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors' conclusion
In conclusion, MTF was associated with a modest weight reduction in obese nondiabetic patients.
Study context
- Population
- Adults without DM, mean body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25 kg/m², with or without nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of at least 3 months49 trials
- Comparison
- Metformin (MTF) vs placebo/control, lifestyle modification (LSM) or FDA-approved anti-obesity drug
- Outcome
- BMI
Methodological detailsrandom-effects model, prespecified subgroup analyses, RCTs were of low quality; large variability in expression of outcome measures
- Random-effects model
- Prespecified subgroup analyses
- RCTs were of low quality; large variability in expression of outcome measures
Pooled result
As reported in the abstract
MD, kg/m2 (CI)P value
MTFvs Placebo/controldoses 500 to 2550 mg/day
−0.56(−0.74 to −0.37)
P < 0.0001Orlistatvs MTFfavouring orlistat; MTF 1000-1700 mg/day
−3.17(−5.88 to −0.47)
Percentage change in BMI (CI)
MTFvs Placebo/controldose 1700 mg/day
−2.53%(−2.90 to −2.17)
Further pooled results
Insulin parameters
- MTF improved insulin parameters vs placebo/control; no effect vs LSM
Liver parameters in NAFLD
- A few small trials showed heterogenous effects of MTF vs placebo/control
Original publication
The impact of metformin on weight and metabolic parameters in patients with obesity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials. Diabetes Obes Metab. Published 11 March 2024. doi:10.
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