Short-Term Metformin Use in Young, Healthy Adults: Impacts on Exercise Capacity
Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
Metformin is the most prescribed blood sugar (glucose)-lowering medication for patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Metformin stimulates glucose uptake in skeletal muscle similar to the effects of exercise, though, some studies report that metformin may decrease exercise capacity. The main question this study looks to answer is: • Does metformin alter exercise capacity? Participants will: * Complete 5 exercise tests on a stationary bike. * Undergo a body composition test. * Take metformin and placebo. * Complete food and symptom logs. The researchers hypothesize that: • Metformin will reduce aerobic capacity.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18-30 years old * Metformin-naïve * BMI \< 30 kg/m2 * Recreationally active (≥ 3 days/week of exercise) * Females must be premenopausal and report normal menstrual cycles * Willingness and ability to comply with scheduled visits and study procedures. Exclusion Criteria: * History of cardiometabolic disease, such as type 1 or type 2 diabetes * Smoking (must have quit at least 6 mos prior) * Use of medication that significantly alters glucose regulation (e.g., metformin, insulin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT-2 inhibitors, biguanides) * Severe liver or kidney disease, or medications to treat liver or kidney disease * Pregnant, breastfeeding, or plans to become pregnant during study period