Nicolette: 0:01

Welcome to the Health Pulse, your go-to source for quick, actionable insights on health, wellness and diagnostics. Whether you're looking to optimize your well-being or stay informed about the latest in medical testing, we've got you covered. Join us as we break down key health topics in just minutes. Let's dive in.

Mark: 0:24

Okay, get ready to dive deep. Today we're tackling metformin. It's a medication a lot of people are curious about, and we're here to give you the knowledge, to have smart conversations with your doctor about it, not to replace their advice, obviously.

Elizabeth: 0:39

That's key. It's all about empowering you to be an active participant in your health journey, and metformin is a great example of a medication where knowledge is power. It's all about empowering you to be an active participant in your health journey, and metformin is a great example of a medication where knowledge is power. It has a surprisingly wide range of effects.

Mark: 0:52

Yeah, it's not just a one-trick pony, is it? And there's so much information and sometimes misinformation floating around out there so we thought we'd sort of cut through the noise. What do you say? We start with that big worry I see everywhere online online that metformin is bad for your kidneys.

Elizabeth: 1:08

Oh, absolutely, that's a valid concern and one we should definitely address. The thing is, understanding how metformin actually works in the body is kind of crucial to dispelling that fear.

Mark: 1:16

Right, because it's not like metformin is just randomly attacking your kidneys right Right?

Elizabeth: 1:20

Not at all. While it's true that the kidneys are the main organs that process and eliminate metformin from your system, the medication itself doesn't directly harm them.

Mark: 1:29

So it's more about careful monitoring and dosage, especially for people who might already have some kidney issues.

Elizabeth: 1:35

Exactly, you know, if you think about it, if your kidneys aren't functioning at their peak, it's kind of like having a slower filter, right?

Mark: 1:43

Yeah, I get that the metformin might build up a bit more if things aren't working perfectly.

Elizabeth: 1:48

Exactly, and that's where careful dosage adjustments come in, especially if you have any pre-existing kidney conditions. Regular checkups with your doctor are key to making sure your metformin levels are where they should be.

Mark: 1:59

Okay, that makes a lot of sense. So for most people with healthy kidneys, metformin is actually pretty safe to take.

Elizabeth: 2:05

Precisely, and regular monitoring by your doctor allows them to catch any potential issues early on and adjust your dosage if needed. It's all about being proactive.

Mark: 2:15

I feel like we're already putting some minds at ease. Okay, so another thing I see all the time online are claims that metformin is like this miracle weight loss drug. What's the truth there?

Elizabeth: 2:26

You know, it's interesting because, while it is true that some people experience modest weight changes while taking metformin, it's not because the medication directly causes weight loss. It's a bit more nuanced than that.

Mark: 2:37

So how come some people report those weight fluctuations then?

Elizabeth: 2:40

The reason likely comes down to metformin's effect on insulin sensitivity. You see, when your cells become more responsive to insulin, you might see a slight decrease in appetite or changes in how your body uses energy, but it's not a guaranteed weight loss solution.

Mark: 2:56

So it's like an indirect effect. Metformin is doing its job, helping with blood sugar control, yeah, and then sometimes there's a side benefit of weight changes.

Elizabeth: 3:04

You got it. If your primary goal is weight loss, relying solely on metformin is kind of like expecting a hammer to build an entire house. It's one tool, but you need a more comprehensive approach.

Mark: 3:14

Diet exercise. You know the usual suspects. Okay, myth busted. Now let's talk about something I know people worry about those stomach issues Diarrhea, nausea those are real things.

Elizabeth: 3:27

Absolutely. Those are among the most common side effects people experience, especially when they first start taking metformin. The good news is they often tend to be temporary.

Mark: 3:36

So as your body adjusts, the side effects usually lessen.

Elizabeth: 3:39

Right. But for those who just can't seem to shake those stomach issues, there are things you can do.

Mark: 3:45

Like what Spill the beans.

Elizabeth: 3:46

Well. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it can help your body acclimate more gently. Also, taking metformin with food can make a world of difference, and some people find that the extended release version is easier on their stomachs. It's about finding what works best for you individually.

Mark: 4:04

So it's not one size fits all.

Elizabeth: 4:06

Not at all. And again, communication with your doctor is key here. They can help you adjust your treatment plan to minimize those side effects.

Mark: 4:13

Okay, that's good to know. Now, what about long-term use? I mean, if someone needs to be on metformin for years, is that safe? I think a lot of people worry about that.

Elizabeth: 4:21

That's a really common question and the answer is thankfully reassuring. Metformin has a very well-established safety record for long-term use, especially when monitored appropriately.

Mark: 4:31

Whew, that's good to hear, but I have also heard something about B12 levels being affected. What's that about?

Elizabeth: 4:38

Right, that's something to be aware of. Long-term metformin use can sometimes interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12, but it's usually easily managed.

Mark: 4:47

So how do you manage it?

Elizabeth: 4:48

Well, your doctor will likely do periodic blood tests to check your B12 levels and if they're low, you can simply take a B12 supplement.

Mark: 4:56

Easy peasy. So regular checkups aren't just about kidney function, they're about keeping an eye on those B12 levels too.

Elizabeth: 5:02

Exactly, it's all about preventative maintenance.

Mark: 5:04

Makes sense. Okay, so we've debunked some myths, we've talked about side effects and we've reassured people that long-term use can be safe. Now let's get down to the nitty gritty. How does metformin actually work? How does it tackle blood sugar?

Elizabeth: 5:20

I love this part. It's like peeling back the layers of an onion you know, revealing these intricate mechanisms.

Mark: 5:26

I love that analogy. So give us the play by play. What's metformin doing in there?

Elizabeth: 5:29

Metformin is quite the multitasker. It works on several levels to regulate blood sugar. First, it targets the liver, reducing the amount of glucose it produces. Imagine turning down the faucet on sugar production.

Mark: 5:42

So less sugar flooding into the bloodstream. Got it, what else?

Elizabeth: 5:45

It also enhances your body's sensitivity to insulin, which is like the key that unlocks the door for glucose to enter your cells.

Mark: 5:52

Ah, so it's helping the insulin do its job better. I like that.

Elizabeth: 5:55

Right With metformin. Those keys work more effectively, allowing cells to take up glucose from the blood more efficiently. And then there's the third mechanism.

Mark: 6:04

Oh, there's more. Hit me with it.

Elizabeth: 6:06

It also acts like a speed bump in your gut, slowing down the absorption of carbohydrates.

Mark: 6:10

Interesting. So it's preventing those blood sugar spikes after meals.

Elizabeth: 6:17

Exactly.

Mark: 6:17

It creates a smoother ride for your blood sugar levels. So it's a triple threat to high blood sugar less sugar from the liver, better insulin response and slower carb absorption. It's amazing.

Elizabeth: 6:27

It's a pretty versatile medication and it's especially interesting how its effects on insulin actually change depending on how much insulin is present in the body.

Mark: 6:35

Oh really, I didn't know that. Tell me more.

Elizabeth: 6:38

For instance, at lower insulin levels, what we call basal levels. Metformin primarily focuses on reducing the breakdown of fat for energy and increasing how quickly your body clears glucose from the bloodstream.

Mark: 6:52

So it's shifting the body's fuel source away from fats and towards glucose.

Elizabeth: 6:55

in that scenario, Exactly, but at higher insulin levels metformin's impact on glucose uptake isn't as pronounced, so its role kind of shifts gears depending on the insulin environment.

Mark: 7:06

Fascinating. Okay, this ties back to what we were talking about earlier with kidney health right.

Elizabeth: 7:10

Yes, it's not the metformin itself that's harmful to kidneys, but rather the uncontrolled diabetes.

Mark: 7:15

So high blood sugar over time is the real culprit, and managing your blood sugar through medication, lifestyle changes and all that good stuff is key to protecting your kidneys.

Elizabeth: 7:25

You nailed it. It's all about a holistic approach.

Mark: 7:27

All right, that makes perfect sense. Now I know no medication is completely without side effects. We talked about the stomach issues, but what are some of the more uncommon but serious side effects we should be aware of with metformin?

Elizabeth: 7:39

Well, there are a couple of rare but serious ones to keep in mind. One is lactic acidosis, which is a condition that can be life-threatening. It's extremely rare, though, and typically only occurs in people with severe kidney or liver disease or those who misuse alcohol.

Mark: 7:56

That sounds serious. What should people watch out for? Like?

Elizabeth: 7:59

what are the red flags? Symptoms can include things like weakness, unusual muscle pain, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, feeling cold, dizziness or an irregular heartbeat. If you experience any of these while taking metformin, seek immediate medical attention.

Mark: 8:14

Okay, good to know. So if you have any of those pre-existing conditions we talked about kidney or liver problems it's extra important to talk to your doctor about whether metformin is right for you.

Elizabeth: 8:24

Exactly, open communication is so important. And then the other potential issue, which we touched on earlier, is vitamin B12 deficiency, but, as we discussed, this is usually a long-term effect and easily monitored and treated.

Mark: 8:38

Those regular blood tests are a lifesaver. Okay, so we've covered a lot about the potential downsides. Now I'm ready for some good news. What are some of the cool benefits of metformin?

Elizabeth: 8:50

I'm happy to delve into the positives. Beyond its blood sugar lowering abilities, metformin has been linked to some other remarkable benefits All right, I'm all ears.

Mark: 8:58

Tell me everything.

Elizabeth: 8:59

Well for one it seems to have a really positive impact on heart health. Studies have shown it can improve cholesterol levels.

Mark: 9:05

So lowering that bad cholesterol, the LDL right.

Elizabeth: 9:08

You got it. And some research even suggests that metformin can lower LDL cholesterol by 10% or more, which is a big deal, Wow that's significant.

Mark: 9:16

I mean, heart disease is a major concern for people with diabetes, so that's really encouraging. Anything else, what other benefits are researchers exploring?

Elizabeth: 9:23

There's some fascinating research going on right now investigating metformin's potential anti-cancer effects.

Mark: 9:31

Anti- cancer.

Elizabeth: 9:31

Now that's intriguing. Yeah, it's still early days, but some studies suggest metformin might help lower the risk of certain cancers like colorectal and breast cancer. It seems to have the ability to interfere with cancer cell growth and development.

Mark: 9:44

That's amazing. So it might not only prevent cancer, but potentially even help fight it.

Elizabeth: 9:49

That's the idea. It's like it's going in there and taking on those rogue cells.

Mark: 9:53

This is incredible. Are there any specific types of cancer they're focusing on?

Elizabeth: 9:57

Researchers are particularly interested in its potential role in colorectal cancer. There have been several studies showing that metformin users have a lower incidence of this type of cancer, which is really promising.

Mark: 10:08

Wow, that's huge. Colorectal cancer is a serious concern, so any potential preventative measures are definitely welcome.

Elizabeth: 10:15

I agree, and it's not just limited to colorectal cancer. Researchers are looking into its potential impact on other types of cancer too, including breast, prostate and pancreatic cancer.

Mark: 10:25

It sounds like metformin could really be a game changer in the fight against cancer. What else is on the horizon? What are researchers excited about?

Elizabeth: 10:33

One area that's generating a lot of buzz is metformin's potential to protect the brain. You know, as we age, our brains become more vulnerable to damage and decline, which can lead to conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Mark: 10:46

Yeah, Neurodegenerative diseases are a huge worry for a lot of people and there aren't many effective treatments out there right now. So how does metformin fit into all of this?

Elizabeth: 10:55

Well, some researchers believe that metformin might have neuroprotective properties. In other words, it could potentially shield brain cells from damage and slow down the progression of these diseases.

Mark: 11:06

So it's not a cure, but it might be able to delay or even prevent these really difficult conditions.

Elizabeth: 11:12

Exactly. It's about preserving quality of life for as long as possible.

Mark: 11:16

That's pretty amazing. Is there much evidence to support this?

Elizabeth: 11:19

There have been several studies, both in animals and humans, that suggest a link between metformin use and a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. While we're still in the early stages of research, the results are definitely encouraging.

Mark: 11:32

It's mind-blowing to think that a medication designed to manage blood sugar could have such a profound impact on brain health.

Elizabeth: 11:40

I know it really speaks to how interconnected our bodies are right.

Mark: 11:43

It makes you wonder what else we might discover about metformin in the future. It's like we're just scratching the surface.

Elizabeth: 11:48

Exactly. There's always more to learn.

Mark: 11:50

Okay. So with all these potential benefits beyond blood sugar control, it's tempting to think why not just give metformin to everyone? But I know it's not that simple.

Elizabeth: 12:01

Right, it's definitely not a one-size-fits-all solution. We already talked about who should avoid metformin, and it's important to remember that any medication can come with potential side effects.

Mark: 12:11

That's a good reminder, which brings us back to that crucial point have open and honest conversations with your doctor.

Elizabeth: 12:18

Absolutely. They are the best resource for understanding the potential benefits and risks of any meditation, including metformin.

Mark: 12:25

They can help you weigh the pros and cons and figure out if metformin is the right choice for you.

Elizabeth: 12:30

Exactly, it's all about personalized medicine.

Mark: 12:33

And I think it's really important to emphasize that this whole deep dive is about empowering you with information, not replacing the advice of a medical professional.

Elizabeth: 12:41

That's right. We're here to help you become more informed and engaged in your health care, but ultimately, your doctor is your partner in making those important decisions.

Mark: 12:50

Well said, so stay tuned. We've got lots more to discuss about. Metformin can be super beneficial for a lot of people, but let's look at the other side of the coin. When is metformin not a good idea? What are some red flags that someone might not be a good candidate for this medication?

Elizabeth: 13:26

That's a really important question. There are definitely some conditions that can make taking metformin risky. The biggest one, as we touched on earlier, is severe kidney or liver disease.

Mark: 13:36

So for people with those conditions is it basically a no-go.

Elizabeth: 13:39

Pretty much, yeah, because, remember, metformin is processed by the kidneys and liver, so if those organs aren't functioning well, the medication can build up in the system and cause serious complications.

Mark: 13:50

Got it. So what about people who have had that rare but serious side effect lactic acidosis?

Elizabeth: 13:56

Yeah, in those cases, metformin is usually not recommended either. The risk is just too high. It's really important to be open with your doctor about any history of lactic acidosis so they can figure out the safest and most effective treatment plan for you.

Mark: 14:10

So being honest with your doctor is key. Are there any other red flags people should be aware of?

Elizabeth: 14:15

Heavy alcohol use is another one. Alcohol can actually mess with how metformin is processed in the body, which can increase the risk of you guessed it lactic acidosis.

Mark: 14:25

So moderation is key, especially when it comes to mixing alcohol and medication.

Elizabeth: 14:29

Absolutely. Even moderate alcohol use can have interactions with certain meds, so it's always best to have a conversation with your doctor about it. They can give you personalized advice based on your individual health and what other medications you're taking.

Mark: 14:41

Makes sense. So we've got kidney and liver issues, past lactic acidosis and heavy alcohol use. Anything else to add to the metformin caution list?

Elizabeth: 14:50

Oh, definitely. It's also crucial to be aware of potential interactions with other medications. Some drugs can affect how metformin works, and vice versa.

Mark: 15:00

Right. So you've got to be upfront with your doctor about all the medications you're taking, even over-the-counter stuff and supplements, which I think a lot of people forget about.

Elizabeth: 15:08

It's easy to overlook those, but even things like herbal supplements or over-the-counter pain relievers can have interactions with prescription medications. Giving your doctor a complete list of everything you're taking, including dosages, really helps them assess any potential problems and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

Mark: 15:27

It's all about communication and being an active participant in your own health care right.

Elizabeth: 15:31

Exactly. Your doctor is your partner, but you're the expert on your own body. Being informed and engaged helps you have more productive conversations and make the best decisions about your health helps you have more productive conversations and make the best decisions about your health.

Mark: 15:46

You know it's funny. We started this deep dive talking about all the conflicting information online about metformin and how overwhelming that can be for people.

Elizabeth: 15:50

It's totally understandable to feel bombarded, especially when it comes to health information. It's like trying to navigate a maze, blindfolded sometimes.

Mark: 15:58

But I think we're doing a pretty good job here of sifting through all that clutter and giving you, the listener, the straight facts based on science and what the experts are saying, wouldn't you agree?

Elizabeth: 16:10

Oh, absolutely. We've tackled common myths, We've explained how metformin works and we've talked about both the potential benefits and risks.

Mark: 16:18

And I think most importantly, we've really stressed the importance of being open and honest with your doctor. They're the ones who can put all these pieces together and help you make the best decisions for your individual needs.

Elizabeth: 16:29

Totally no podcast can replace the expertise and guidance of a health care professional.

Mark: 16:34

Right. We're here to provide information, to empower you, not to tell you what to do.

Elizabeth: 16:39

Exactly, it's about equipping you to have more meaningful conversations with your doctor and be a more active participant in your health care.

Mark: 16:46

Okay, I think we've covered a lot of crucial information about who might not be a good fit for metformin. Now I want to circle back to some of that promising research we touched on before. Let's delve deeper into some of the cool potential benefits of metformin that go beyond just managing blood sugar. Are you ready for that?

Elizabeth: 17:03

Absolutely. I'm happy to explore those further. I think this is where things get really interesting. We already talked about metformin's impact on heart health, but some studies suggest it might go even beyond improving cholesterol levels.

Mark: 17:16

Oh, I'm intrigued. Tell me more.

Elizabeth: 17:19

There's emerging evidence that metformin might also reduce inflammation in the blood vessels, which, as you know, is a big contributor to so it's like a double whammy against heart problems improving cholesterol and reducing inflammation.

Mark: 17:32

That's incredible.

Elizabeth: 17:32

Yeah, it's a really promising area of research and if these findings are confirmed by larger studies, it could have huge implications for preventing and managing heart disease, especially for people with diabetes.

Mark: 17:43

That's definitely something to be hopeful about. What about that anti-cancer potential we were talking about earlier? Can you elaborate on that a bit?

Elizabeth: 17:51

Sure, we mentioned that some studies have linked metformin use to a lower risk of certain cancers. We're still figuring out exactly how it works, but some researchers think it might be because metformin can actually suppress the growth of cancer cells or maybe even cause them to self-destruct.

Mark: 18:06

So it's not just preventing cancer, but possibly even helping to fight it off.

Elizabeth: 18:11

That's the theory. It's like metformin is stepping into the boxing ring and going head to head with those rogue cells.

Mark: 18:16

That's amazing. Are there any specific types of cancer they're focusing on with this research?

Elizabeth: 18:21

They're particularly interested in metformin's potential role in preventing and treating colorectal cancer. There have been several studies with pretty positive results suggesting that people who take metformin have a lower incidence of this type of cancer.

Mark: 18:35

Well, that's huge. Colorectal cancer is a major concern, so any potential ways to prevent it are definitely a good thing. This research is really encouraging.

Elizabeth: 18:43

I agree, and it's not just colorectal cancer. Researchers are also looking at its potential impact on other types of cancer, like breast cancer. Researchers are also looking at its potential impact on other types of cancer, like breast cancer, prostate cancer and pancreatic cancer. It's a wide-ranging area of research and the early findings are really interesting.

Mark: 18:58

It sounds like metformin could be a real game-changer in the fight against cancer. Are there any other areas of research that you're particularly excited about?

Elizabeth: 19:06

One that I find fascinating is the potential for metformin to actually protect the brain. As we get older, our brains naturally become more vulnerable to damage and decline, which can unfortunately lead to conditions like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Mark: 19:21

Yeah, neurodegenerative diseases are a huge worry for a lot of people and right now there aren't many effective treatments available. So where does metformin come in?

Elizabeth: 19:29

Well, some researchers believe that metformin might actually have neuroprotective properties, meaning it could potentially shield brain cells from damage and slow down how quickly those diseases progress.

Mark: 19:40

So it's not a cure, but it might help delay or even prevent those debilitating conditions. That's still a huge step in the right direction.

Elizabeth: 19:48

Absolutely. It's about giving people more time and helping them maintain their quality of life for as long as possible.

Mark: 19:55

What kind of evidence is out there to back up these claims?

Elizabeth: 19:58

There have been several studies, both in animals and humans, that seem to show a link between taking metformin and having a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. It's still early days in terms of research, but the findings are pretty promising.

Mark: 20:13

It's pretty incredible to think that a medication originally created to manage blood sugar could have such a big impact on brain health.

Elizabeth: 20:19

I know right. It really highlights how interconnected our bodies are and how medications can sometimes have these really far-reaching effects.

Mark: 20:28

It definitely makes you wonder what else we might discover about metformin in the future. It feels like we're just beginning to understand its full potential.

Elizabeth: 20:35

Absolutely. There's always more to learn.

Mark: 20:36

Okay, with all these possible benefits beyond blood sugar control, it's tempting to think well, why not just give metformin to everyone? But of course it's not that simple.

Elizabeth: 20:46

Yeah, you're right, it's definitely not a one-size-fits-all kind of thing. We already talked about who shouldn't take metformin, and it's important to keep in mind that every medication, every single one, comes with potential side effects.

Mark: 21:00

That's a really good point and it just emphasizes how crucial it is to have those open and honest conversations with your doctor.

Elizabeth: 21:07

For sure they are your best resource when it comes to understanding the potential benefits and risks of any medication, including metformin.

Mark: 21:15

They can help you figure out what's right for you and your specific needs.

Elizabeth: 21:18

Exactly. It's about personalized medicine, you know, tailoring the treatment to fit the individual.

Mark: 21:25

And I think we need to say this again this deep dive is all about empowering you with information, not telling you what to do or replacing the advice of a doctor.

Elizabeth: 21:34

We want you to be more informed and involved in your own health care, but at the end of the day, your doctor is your partner in making those big decisions.

Mark: 21:41

OK, I think we've covered some really valuable information about the potential benefits of metformin that go beyond just blood sugar. So, as we move into the final part of our deep dive, what are some of the key takeaways you want our listeners to remember about these benefits?

Elizabeth: 21:56

I think the most important thing to remember is that metformin is way more than just a diabetes drug. It's a medication with a whole bunch of potential benefits that extend beyond blood sugar control.

Mark: 22:07

Right. We've talked about its potential to protect the heart, fight cancer and even shield the brain from damage.

Elizabeth: 22:13

And while a lot of the research is still in progress, the early findings are super promising and give us a peek into the future of medicine.

Mark: 22:21

It is exciting to think about the possibilities, but it's also important to approach all this information with a healthy dose of caution.

Elizabeth: 22:27

Absolutely. It's crucial to keep in mind that not everyone will experience these extra benefits and some people might have side effects.

Mark: 22:34

So, again, it all comes back to those open and honest conversations with your doctor. They can guide you through this and help you make the best decisions for your unique situation.

Elizabeth: 22:44

And remember, this is just the start of your journey of learning about metformin. Stay curious, keep learning and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Mark: 22:53

Well, we've really covered a ton of information about metformin in this deep dive, from busting those common myths to understanding its potential beyond blood sugar. It's been quite a journey, wouldn't you say.

Elizabeth: 23:03

It really has, and it just goes to show how much there is to learn about this medication, even for people who think they already know a lot about it.

Mark: 23:11

You're so right. Before we wrap things up, I'd love to kind of crystallize the key takeaways for our listeners. What are the most important things you want them to remember about metformin?

Elizabeth: 23:21

I think first and foremost, I'd want to really hammer home the point that metformin does not inherently damage your kidneys. That's a huge misconception that we need to get rid of.

Mark: 23:30

Absolutely. Metformin itself isn't the bad guy here. It's those consistently high blood sugar levels, the uncontrolled diabetes, that actually lead to kidney damage over time.

Elizabeth: 23:40

Exactly, and that's why those regular checkups and dosage adjustments are so crucial, especially for anyone who already has some kidney concerns.

Mark: 23:48

It's about being proactive right, Taking care of both your diabetes and your overall health. What else would you say is a really important takeaway?

Elizabeth: 23:57

I'd want to emphasize that, while some people might experience modest weight changes while taking metformin, it's really not a magic weight loss drug.

Mark: 24:05

Right, it's not a quick fix for shedding pounds.

Elizabeth: 24:06

Exactly. Any weight changes are likely due to improved insulin sensitivity, not a direct effect of the metformin itself.

Mark: 24:15

So if weight loss is your goal, you've got to focus on those lifestyle changes too, like a healthy diet, exercise and managing stress.

Elizabeth: 24:23

It's all about taking a holistic approach, understanding that multiple factors play a role in weight.

Mark: 24:28

Okay, what else should our listeners keep in mind?

Elizabeth: 24:31

Don't suffer in silence if you're experiencing those common side effects like stomach upset, especially when you're first starting metformin. There are things you can do to manage those.

Mark: 24:40

Talk to your doctor. They might adjust your dose, suggest taking it with food or even recommend trying the extended release version. There are definitely solutions out there.

Elizabeth: 24:49

And finally, I just want to reiterate that metformin has a very strong safety record for long-term use, especially when it's monitored appropriately.

Mark: 24:58

Yeah, that's good to hear for people who might be on it for years. But, as you said, those regular checkups are still important.

Elizabeth: 25:04

Oh, absolutely. They're not just about kidney function either. Remember we talked about how long-term metformin use can sometimes affect those B12 levels.

Mark: 25:13

Right. Those routine blood tests are essential. It's like getting a tune-up for your health to make sure everything's in tip-top shape.

Elizabeth: 25:20

Perfect analogy.

Mark: 25:21

Well, I think we've given our listeners some really valuable information about metformin. Hopefully we've helped them replace some of that fear with knowledge.

Elizabeth: 25:29

That's what we aim for.

Mark: 25:30

Knowledge is power replace some of that fear with knowledge. That's what we aim for. Knowledge is power. As we wrap up this deep dive, what really strikes me is the incredible potential of metformin, especially all those benefits that go beyond blood sugar control.

Elizabeth: 25:41

It is pretty amazing when you think about it. The research in areas like heart health, cancer and even brain health is super exciting.

Mark: 25:48

It really feels like we're just starting to uncover everything this medication is capable of.

Elizabeth: 25:53

That's the beauty of science, isn't it? There's always more to learn and discover.

Mark: 25:58

And that sense of wonder and possibility is something I really hope our listeners take away from this deep dive. Metformin is so much more than just a pill. It's a window into understanding how complex our bodies are and how medicine can really make a difference in our lives in ways we might not expect.

Elizabeth: 26:16

I love that, and I'd add that the journey of discovery doesn't stop here. It's so important for everyone to stay curious, keep learning and never be afraid to ask questions.

Mark: 26:26

Absolutely Arming yourself with knowledge is truly the best way to advocate for your own health and well-being.

Elizabeth: 26:31

Well said, and remember your doctor is your partner in this. Don't hesitate to reach out to them with any questions or concerns you might have.

Mark: 26:39

On that note, I think we've reached the end of our Metformin deep dive. Thank you so much for joining us today.

Elizabeth: 26:54

We hope you feel more informed and empowered to take charge of your health.

Nicolette: 26:56

It's been a pleasure exploring this fascinating topic with you and we look forward to having you join us again for another deep dive soon. Thanks for tuning into the Health Pulse. If you found this episode helpful, don't forget to subscribe and share it with someone who might benefit. For more health insights and diagnostics, visit us online at wwwquicklabmobilecom. No-transcript.