Repurposing an Old Drug: A Study on the Potential Pharmacological Effects of Metformin

Abstract

Serving as a conventional first-line agent against type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), metformin has been fully verified for its safety and efficacy, but its potential pharmacological effects have been continuously explored in recent years. In contrast to the lengthy cycle and high expenses of de novo drug R&D, “old drugs for new uses” has become an efficient path to explore the new value of drugs. Combining the progress of relevant domestic and foreign research in recent years, this article systematically summarizes various potential pharmacological effects of metformin, such as hypoglycemic, anti-aging and anti-tumor effects, and elaborates on its mechanism of action. This research result provides a reference basis for the subsequent in-depth research and clinical transformation of this drug, and has significant academic value.