Metformin, a medication commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, has been the subject of research exploring its potential benefits in preventing long COVID.
Several studies have suggested that metformin could have potential in mitigating the risk and severity of long COVID. Metformin is known to have anti-inflammatory effects and can improve cellular energy metabolism, which are both relevant factors in COVID-19 and its long-term consequences. In addition, metformin has been shown to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are associated with the exaggerated immune response seen in severe COVID-19 cases.
A study published in the journal Frontiers in Immunology in 2021 proposed that metformin might reduce the risk of long COVID by targeting the mechanisms underlying persistent inflammation and immune dysregulation. The researchers highlighted the potential of metformin in reducing the risk of developing chronic symptoms after COVID-19 infection. However, it’s important to note that this study was based on theoretical considerations and did not involve clinical trials or direct investigation of long COVID patients.
Another study published in the journal Aging and Disease in 2021 explored the potential role of metformin in preventing post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, commonly referred to as long COVID. The authors suggested that metformin’s anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to regulate immune responses could potentially mitigate the risk of long COVID. However, further research, including clinical trials, is required to confirm these findings and evaluate metformin’s efficacy for this purpose.
While these initial studies suggest the potential benefits of metformin in preventing long COVID, it’s important to emphasize that further research is needed to establish its effectiveness. Clinical trials are essential to assess the safety and efficacy of metformin specifically for long COVID and to determine the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment.