Diabetes Drug Metformin Directly Impacts Brain Function, New Research Reveals
Houston, TX – after six decades of widespread use for managing type 2 diabetes, teh common drug metformin has been found to directly affect brain function, according to a study published in science Advances. Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that direct brain injections of metformin lowered blood glucose in mice, suggesting the brain plays a crucial role in the drug’s effectiveness – a mechanism previously unknown. This finding could revolutionize our understanding of metformin and open doors to optimizing its use, and potentially expanding its applications beyond diabetes.
For years,metformin has been understood to work primarily by reducing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity. However, this new research indicates the brain responds to significantly lower concentrations of the drug than the liver or intestines, suggesting a potent and previously unrecognized neurological pathway. “This discovery changes how we think about metformin,” explains researcher Dr. Fukuda. ”Its not just working in the liver or the gut, it’s also acting in the brain.”
metformin is a safe, long-lasting, and affordable medication widely prescribed to manage the symptoms of type 2 diabetes. The study builds on existing research hinting at broader benefits of the drug, including potential to slow brain aging and improve lifespan. Understanding how metformin interacts with the brain could lead to strategies for boosting its potency and exploring its use in treating other conditions.
The research, published November 2025, highlights the need for human studies to confirm these findings and unlock the full potential of this widely-used medication.
