Metformin treatment: Pediatric weight management experience
Recommended Citation
Hashim R, Ariza AJ, Binns HJ, Mangarelli C, Quadri M. Metformin Treatment: Pediatric Weight Management Experience. Clin Pediatr (Phila). Published online January 16, 2026. doi:10.1177/00099228251411619
Abstract
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.
Type
Article
PubMed ID
41546151
Affiliations
Advocate Children's Hospital, Park Ridge