Metformin use in adolescents

Abstract

There are no studies evaluating whether metformin prevents or delays the onset of diabetes in adolescents who are obese. In adults, metformin is as effective as lifestyle interventions in preventing increases in A1C and fasting glucose levels, but it is less effective in preventing or delaying the onset of overt type 2 diabetes. Metformin use reduces body mass index (BMI) for up to six months in adolescents who are obese (Strength of Recommendation [SOR]: C, based on disease-oriented randomized controlled trials [RCTs]) and reduces insulin resistance, the prevalence and severity of steatosis, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. (SOR: C, based on disease-oriented RCTs.)