Study Suggests Common Drug Mimics Benefits of Exercise

Scientists propose that a widely prescribed medication might offer some of the advantages typically associated with physical exercise, all without requiring actual workouts.

A recent study from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Centre revealed that metformin, a drug primarily used to treat diabetes, could replicate some biological effects of exercise for individuals unable to engage in intense physical activity.

According to the findings, this common diabetes medication likely stimulates the release of weight-regulating compounds in the body similar to those activated during exercise for those who are inactive.

Australia’s diabetes numbers are striking, with over 1.5 million people diagnosed, and metformin is frequently one of the initial medications recommended for those with Type 2 diabetes.

Metformin operates by lowering both long-acting and post-meal plasma glucose levels without prompting insulin secretion. It enhances insulin sensitivity in muscles, which helps increase glucose uptake, as noted by Diabetes Australia.

While metformin is typically prescribed when diet and exercise fail to adequately control blood sugar levels, the study suggests it may also provide advantages for patients suffering from other conditions.

For instance, men with prostate cancer—who often face treatment-induced limitations to exercise—were found to have increased levels of a molecule associated with calorie burning and weight loss after taking metformin.

“From a clinical viewpoint, it was notable to observe a metabolic signal that parallels what we usually connect with intense physical activity,” remarked oncologist Dr. Marijo Bilusic. “For patients whose conditions restrict physical activity, such an effect could hold significant value.”

Although regular exercise is advised during cancer treatment, if fatigue or illness renders it impossible, metformin might activate certain biological signals within the body.

Dr. Bilusic posited that the study clarifies how this prevalent drug may bolster metabolic health amid prostate cancer treatment, providing a meaningful outcome for both patients and healthcare providers.

The molecule N-lactoyl-phenylalanine, or Lac-Phe, tends to spike in the body post-intense exercise and is linked to benefits like appetite control and calorie burning.

Prior research has connected Lac-Phe to weight loss and diminished appetite as well.

Interestingly, scientists have also noted elevated Lac-Phe levels in individuals taking metformin, even without engaging in any form of exercise.

This study specifically concentrated on patients with prostate cancer, a group often grappling with weight gain, poor blood sugar control, and heightened heart disease risk due to hormone therapy.

Hormone therapy reduces or blocks testosterone production, which can encourage cancer growth.

Blood samples taken from 29 participants showed that those on metformin exhibited Lac-Phe levels similar to individuals undergoing vigorous exercise.

This observation held true even though patients were not exercising at the time of the blood tests, and the effect endured after they commenced hormone therapy.

Researchers noted that Lac-Phe may reflect the body’s management of weight, calories, and blood sugar during treatment.

Furthermore, patients receiving metformin while undergoing other cancer therapies also demonstrated increased Lac-Phe levels.

“What’s encouraging about this research is that it emphasizes cancer care goes beyond merely targeting tumors; it’s also about holistically supporting the patient,” commented Priyamvada Rai, a professor of radiation oncology at the Miller School.

“By deepening our understanding of how treatments influence metabolism, we can start identifying strategies to help patients maintain their strength and quality of life throughout their treatment journey.”