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Diabetes Drug Halves Long Covid Risk
4 Feb
Summary
- Early metformin use reduces long Covid risk by up to 50%.
- COVID-OUT and ACTIV-6 trials confirm metformin's preventive benefits.
- Metformin is safe but not for those with severe kidney/liver issues.
Long Covid, characterized by persistent fatigue, brain fog, and breathing difficulties, affects millions globally for months or years post-infection. Recent findings suggest that metformin, a widely used type 2 diabetes medication, can significantly lower the risk of developing these prolonged symptoms. When started early during an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, metformin has been shown in clinical trials to reduce the likelihood of clinician-diagnosed long Covid by approximately 40% to 50%.
The COVID-OUT trial indicated a 41% reduction in long Covid risk with metformin, with even greater benefits when initiated within three days of symptom onset. Further bolstering these findings, the ACTIV-6 trial reported about 50% lower rates of long Covid among metformin recipients. These consistent results from multiple studies highlight metformin's potential as a preventive measure against long Covid.
Metformin is generally well-tolerated, with common side effects including gastrointestinal upset. However, it is contraindicated for individuals with severe kidney or liver disease due to the risk of lactic acidosis. Current evidence supports its use for prevention rather than treatment of established long Covid symptoms, with benefits diminishing if taken weeks or months after the initial illness. Healthcare professionals advise against self-medication, emphasizing consultation for personalized recommendations.
