Metformin is a prescription drug used to treat type 2 diabetes. Published research shows that it also helps nondiabetics lose weight (Paolisso et al 1998) . Metformin reduces the release of glucose (sugar) stored in the liver as glycogen. This prevents blood glucose levels from rising too high, so the body does not need to produce as much insulin (Davidson et al 1997; Maggs 1997; Pugh 1997) . Metformin also prevents some of the detrimental effects associated with normal aging (Kiho et al 2005).

Phenformin, a similar drug, extended the life span of mice in a Russian study (Anisimov et al 2003).

In women, a common cause of obesity is polycystic ovary syndrome, which is characterized by high blood levels of insulin.

Metformin helps women with polycystic ovary syndrome lose weight (Velazquez et al 1997; Holte et al 1998; Mauras et al 1998; Morin-Papunen et al 1998; Nestler et al 1998a,b).

Metformin can be used with relative safety to lose weight (Mogul et al 2003). Consider consulting your physician about taking metformin. A typical dose is 500 mg three times a day, a few minutes before meals. Metformin is not recommended for individuals who have kidney disease, heart failure, or any medical condition that could make blood acidic (Bralow et al 2004). Consult your physician about the appropriateness of combining metformin with any of your medications. Nausea or diarrhea may occur when using metformin