Research advances on how metformin improves memory impairment in "chemobrain"
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Updated: Nov 2, 2025

Quantifying Cognitive Decrements Caused by Cranial Radiotherapy
Published on: October 18, 2011
Ahmad Alhowail1, Sridevi Chigurupati2
1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraidah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
Cognitive impairment caused by chemotherapy, referred to as "chemobrain," is observed in approximately 70% of cancer survivors. However, it is not completely understood how chemotherapy induces cognitive dysfunction, and clinical treatment strategies for this problem are lacking. Metformin, used as a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus, is reported to reduce the effects of chemobrain. Recently, several studies have examined the effect of metformin in rescuing chemobrain. This review discusses recent clinical/preclinical studies that addressed some mechanisms of chemobrain and evaluates the effect of metformin in rescuing chemobrain and its potential mechanisms of action.
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