Multiple Therapeutic Applications of Metformin Moving Beyond Its Anti-Diabetic Role: A Systematic Review

Metformin is a commonly used anti-diabetic drug due to its safety, low cost, and strong glucose-lowering effects. Recent research studies have identified novel molecular targets and pathways for metformin, thereby expanding its potential beyond the treatment of Type 2 diabetes.

This systematic review provides the latest updates on the therapeutic applications of metformin in multiple diseases. This systematic review follows the PRISMA guidelines, focusing on experimental studies systematic reviews and meta-analyses from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google scholar, the search terms ("Metformin"[MeSH] OR "Metformin") AND ("Cancer" OR "Cardiovascular Disease" OR "Neurodegenerative Disease" OR "Aging") AND ("Therapeutic Use" OR "Non-diabetic"). A comprehensive search yielded numerous studies, from which relevant and up-to-date papers were carefully selected.

The review highlights the multifaceted applications of metformin in various diseases. Evidence demonstrates its positive effects on cardiovascular diseases, obesity, different types of cancer, and liver and kidney disorders. These findings suggest that metformin acts through diverse molecular mechanisms, exerting benefits that extend beyond glycemic control.

Based on the current literature, metformin exhibits a broad spectrum of therapeutic benefits, extending beyond its primary use in diabetes management. Its role in treating multiple diseases has marked it as a multifaceted agent in modern medicine. Further research is warranted to fully explore its capabilities and optimize its use in different clinical settings.