HER2 Support Group Forums - View Single Post - Metformin: Taking away the candy for cancer?

jml · 08-07-2010, 08:20 AM

I am on Metformin, prescribed originally for Insulin Resistance after my 1st year of treatment, when I was experiencing symptoms. Those have all resolved, though I continue on Metformin off label.
My onc used to question whether or not I should continue on it, but in light of the most recent research re: Metformin & BC, she supports my continued us.
Also, it's very important that anyone taking Metformin d/c use 36 hrs before and after ANY scans - PET or CT. I've even noticed that they're now asking patients to sign a form consenting NOT to used there meds within this range of time. My understanding is the the combo of the contrast & drug is very hard on kidneys.
I wonder how many oncs out there would be willing to start their onc patients on Metformin off-label. It's still such a new concept. From my own experience I'm constantly explaining to folks that I'm NOT diabetic, but WAS insulin resistant, but NOW take the drug for BC...most people just glaze over when I start to explain.
I do feel fortunate to have access to the drug.

08-07-2010, 08:20 AM	#7
jml Senior Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Posts: 415	Re: Metformin: Taking away the candy for cancer? I am on Metformin, prescribed originally for Insulin Resistance after my 1st year of treatment, when I was experiencing symptoms. Those have all resolved, though I continue on Metformin off label. My onc used to question whether or not I should continue on it, but in light of the most recent research re: Metformin & BC, she supports my continued us. Also, it's very important that anyone taking Metformin d/c use 36 hrs before and after ANY scans - PET or CT. I've even noticed that they're now asking patients to sign a form consenting NOT to used there meds within this range of time. My understanding is the the combo of the contrast & drug is very hard on kidneys. I wonder how many oncs out there would be willing to start their onc patients on Metformin off-label. It's still such a new concept. From my own experience I'm constantly explaining to folks that I'm NOT diabetic, but WAS insulin resistant, but NOW take the drug for BC...most people just glaze over when I start to explain. I do feel fortunate to have access to the drug.