A recent study involving 1,565 youths with bipolar disorder has demonstrated that the drug metformin can effectively prevent weight gain in patients treated with second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs). Conducted by researchers from the University of Cincinnati and Northwell Health, the study aimed to address the significant side effects of SGAs, which often include elevated appetite and weight gain, leading to non-adherence to medication among patients. Metformin, typically used for Type 2 diabetes, showed modest but significant effectiveness in weight management during the six-month follow-up, although it had limited impact on metabolic syndrome.
The study employed a pragmatic design and enrolled a diverse range of participants across 60 clinics, providing real-world applicability. Alongside a lifestyle intervention promoting healthy eating and exercise, half of the participants received metformin. Results indicated that while metformin did not significantly address metabolic syndrome, it helped reduce uncontrolled appetite, facilitating better adherence to lifestyle changes. The project received support from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and actively involved patient and caregiver feedback throughout its course, ensuring a patient-centered approach. Further research is required to explore interventions targeting metabolic syndrome in this population.
