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

A Systematic Review

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15605/jafes.040.02.10

Keywords:

multiple therapeutic uses, metformin, cancer, obesity, cardiovascular disease, anti-aging effect

Abstract

Introduction. Introduction. 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.
Methodology. 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 u-pto-date papers were carefully selected.
Results. 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.
Conclusion. 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. 

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Author Biographies

Asif Jan, District Headquarter Hospital (DHQH)

Clinical pharmacist, District Headquarter Hospital (DHQH), Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Department of Pharmacy, University of Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Aftab Ullah, University of Peshawar

Department of Pharmacy, University of Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Department of Pharmacy, Abasyn University Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Syed Shaukat Ali, Abdul Wali Khan University

Research Assistant, Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Rani Akbar, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Research Assistant, Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Bushra Waheed, University of Swabi, Anbar, Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Department of Pharmacy, University of Swabi, Anbar, Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

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2025-11-18

How to Cite

Jan, A., Ullah, A., Ali, S. S., Akbar, R., & Waheed, B. (2025). Multiple Therapeutic Applications of Metformin Moving Beyond Its Anti-Diabetic Role:: A Systematic Review. Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies, 40(2), 148–157. https://doi.org/10.15605/jafes.040.02.10

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*Review Articles