Did you see the study about Metformin causing birth defects when used by men?
Metformin is a medication used to treat Type 2 Diabetes. It works by helping to control blood sugar levels. It is also used in some cases to help prevent Type 2 Diabetes from developing. Metformin is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects may occur. These include diarrhea, nausea, and headaches.
Although Metformin is an effective treatment for Type 2 Diabetes, there are some risks associated with its use. One such risk is an increased risk of birth defects. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of Metformin before you take it.
Here is an article about what Metformin is, if you are new to this medication.
A recent study found men taking Metformin three months before conception may be at an increased risk of birth defects in their child1https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M21-4389. This is a significant finding, as it raises awareness for potential dangers associated with this medication. Metformin is a very common drug, and its safety is often taken for granted.
This study underscores the importance of taking caution when using any medication.
New study shows that men who take Metformin have 40% higher chance of having an abnormal birth for the next generation.
This is according to the above referenced study with data from over 1.4 million births in Denmark2https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M21-4389. While the absolute risk is still low – less than one percent – this finding could have important implications for couples who are planning to conceive.
Diabetes of all types can affect sperm quality and male fertility. So, the researchers compared the rates of birth defects in the babies of men who took Metformin to those who took blood thinners. This was done to ensure that a Type 2 Diabetes diagnosis didn’t contribute to the increased risk of birth defects.
The major issue however is that the study found that “Preconception paternal Metformin treatment is associated with major birth defects, particularly genital birth defects in boys.”3https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M21-4389.
Despite years of research, scientists have not been able to find a clear connection between birth defects and paternal exposure to diabetes medications, except for Metformin.
More research is needed to confirm these findings. Digging deeper can also help understand how Metformin might increase the risk of birth abnormalities. If you are currently taking medication, speak with your healthcare provider about the potential risks. Some medications can cause birth defects or other complications. So, it is vital that you are informed before making any decisions.
Her tragic family history of Type 2 Diabetes, and her own diagnosis of prediabetes in 2021 caused her to research more deeply, leading to a passion in educating people on how to hopefully put this disease into remission.
