Metformin is mostly used to treat type 2 diabetes, but it may also have additional potential advantages. According to a recent study from King’s College London, this medicine may improve the treatment of gum disease for people of all ages, not only diabetics. The study also implies that metformin might help reduce bone loss caused by periodontal disease and aging. Â
Gum disease, often known by its colloquial term, is an infection of the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. Without treatment, it can result in jaw bone loss and ultimately tooth loss. According to studies, those who have gum disease are more likely to develop heart disease, dementia, diabetes, and breathing problems. Â
Dr. Vitor Neves and his colleagues set out to examine the efficacy of metformin in the treatment of gum disease. Researchers were intrigued by the possible preventive benefits of anti-inflammatory characteristics against diseases such as cardiovascular disease, liver disease, and several forms of cancer. Metformin has been demonstrated in studies to lower the incidence of age-related disorders; hence, it is being considered as a potential ‘anti-aging’ treatment. Â
The research included both rodent models and human trials. Metformin significantly delayed bone loss linked with periodontal disease and aging in a mouse model. Twenty people with gum disease but no diabetes took part in a research trial, and the results revealed that metformin improved the efficiency of treatment for the ailment. The medicine may be able to manage sugar and inflammation even when bacterial loads are high. Â
Metformin, according to Dr. Neves, may benefit persons with gum disease. Better glucose homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory management were identified as areas of advancement linked to a healthy old age. He also emphasized that good dental hygiene may not be the sole way to avoid gum disease. These discoveries, while encouraging, are still in the early phases of inquiry.
Dr. Purnima Kumar, a representative for the American Dental Association, stated that the majority of the findings came from animal research. Given that the proposed administration of metformin is off-label, she emphasized the importance of more study in larger populations. Dr. Kumar maintained that excellent dental hygiene is essential for overall health and championed the concept of the mouth as a microcosm of the body. Â
Metformin appears to be effective in treating gum disease and promoting healthy aging, although further study is needed to confirm these findings. New information on the far-reaching impacts of gum disease is revealed, and the findings improve the possibilities for therapeutic breakthroughs. Â
Journal Reference Â
Neves, V. C., Satie Okajima, L., Elbahtety, E., Joseph, S., Daly, J., Menon, A., … Ide, M. (2023). Journal of Translational Medicine, 21(1). doi:10.1186/s12967-023-04456-1Â
