Metformin
A diabetes medication that can support modest weight loss by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing liver sugar production.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Metformin is a diabetes medication that can also support modest weight loss. It works by reducing the amount of sugar your liver produces and improving how your body responds to insulin, which can help with appetite control.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Metformin is a biguanide antihyperglycaemic agent that decreases hepatic gluconeogenesis, increases peripheral insulin sensitivity, and enhances GLP-1 secretion. While not primarily a weight-loss drug, it is associated with modest weight reduction of 2–3 kg on average and is frequently used off-label for weight management in insulin-resistant patients.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
Metformin is one of the most studied and affordable medications for metabolic health. For patients with prediabetes or PCOS, it can support both metabolic improvement and weight management under the supervision of Dr Wang at Accord Medical.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.