Metformin is a drug widely used in the management of type 2 diabetes; it has been FDA approved for this use since 1994. However, there has been further research into the links between this medication and its potential effects on neurological conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

We have looked into this previously – please see our “Metformin – could it be the answer for MS sufferers?” blog for further information. This was based on a study funded by the UK MS Society in 2019 that showed links between myelin repair in rats when treated with Metformin, with nerve damage being reversed in a 3 month period. Now, a new study taking place in Australia (PLATYPUS) will open in January 2024 to adults aged between 25-70 who have either primary progressive MS or secondary progressive MS. This trial will use Metformin and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) across 2 groups to assess the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of metformin and alpha-lipoic acid in myelin repair (Metformin) and nerve protection (ALA). The third group will receive a placebo.

Further information: https://multiplesclerosisnewstoday.com/news-posts/2023/12/05/metformin-alpha-lipoic-acid-tested-progressive-ms-platypus/

We will of course report more on PLATYPUS results as we have them, but it’s interesting to look at Metformin as a whole as to how and why it could be beneficial in the treatment of MS and other neurological conditions.

Anti-inflammatory & Neuroprotective Properties

Metformin is known for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, and these characteristics have sparked interest in its potential benefits for various neurological disorders, including Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

MS is so named due to the multiple scars/lesions (sclerosis) that this disease causes in the brain and/or spinal cord. It is an autoimmune disease that leads to inflammation, demyelination, and neurological dysfunction. Sufferers of MS may experience a wide range of symptoms as a result of this scarring, including pain, mobility issues, vision problems, fatigue, muscle problems and many more – no one MS sufferer is the same as another. Sadly, there is no known cure for MS at this time and scientists do not yet currently have a concrete reason as to why MS develops (current thinking is MS is caused by a coronation of genetic and environmental factors).

Metformin by its nature has potent anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, which form 2 very strong reasons to continue with research into using it as a treatment for MS.

• Chronic inflammation is a contributing factor in the development and progression of multiple sclerosis, so the anti-inflammatory effects of Metformin might have a positive impact on the inflammatory processes associated with MS.
• Metformin has been studied for its potential neuroprotective effects; in the context of MS, these properties could potentially help protect nerve cells from damage and degeneration.
• Metformin may also modulate the immune system, potentially affecting the aberrant immune response seen in autoimmune conditions like MS.