Metformin use in non-diabetic youth with obesity may improve weight status and reduce comorbidities. This retrospective review of 161 youth with obesity prescribed lifestyle changes and metformin in a pediatric weight management (PWM) program aims to evaluate patient-reported experiences of metformin use and assess the association between metformin use and changes in weight status. The 3 groups (metformin taken ≥6 months, metformin taken <6 months, and metformin ordered not taken) had similar weight status at the start of the evaluation. Youth taking metformin ≥6 months started metformin at an earlier visit and more often had prediabetes and a parent with diabetes. Overall, 57.1% improved weight status (metformin taken ≥6 months, 69.0%; metformin taken <6 months, 59.4%; and metformin ordered not taken, 32.4%; P < .002). Among those who had taken metformin (n = 127), 35.4% reported side effects that did not vary by group status. This study provides perspective on metformin use for pediatric obesity care.
Hashim et al. (Fri,) studied this question.