Metformin and lifestyle changes were not linked to lung function
In a 19-year trial follow-up of 1,888 adults originally at risk for diabetes, lung function and respiratory symptoms did not differ by original treatment group.
Placebo-controlled
Limit: All participants were offered lifestyle intervention and metformin continuation was open-label during follow-up
Edited by Boris Djordjevic · AgingResearch.News
In a long-term follow-up of a randomized trial, researchers evaluated 1,888 adults originally at risk for diabetes. At follow-up, their average age was 68.2 years, and 70% were female. The Diabetes Prevention Program had randomized 3,234 adults to metformin, a lifestyle intervention or placebo for three years. Afterward, 88% enrolled in an outcomes study that offered lifestyle intervention to all and open-label continuation of metformin. Researchers performed spirometry, a breathing test that measures lung function, approximately 19 and 22 years after randomization.
At follow-up, 58% of participants had diabetes. Original randomization group was not associated with lung function measures in unadjusted or adjusted analyses. Rates of airway obstruction, restrictive breathing patterns, impaired spirometry and respiratory symptoms also did not differ by original group.
Why it matters
Metformin and physical activity have been suggested as beneficial for chronic lung disease. This follow-up addressed whether assignment to metformin or lifestyle intervention was linked to respiratory health in older adults.
Caveats
During the long-term follow-up, all participants were offered lifestyle intervention; metformin continuation was open-label. Participants entered the original trial at elevated risk for diabetes, so the findings may not apply to people at lower risk.
Metformin is part of Bryan Johnson's Blueprint and David Sinclair's daily regimen in Lifespan
The paper
Brigham and Women's Hospital; Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Respiratory Medicine, Aug 4, 2026
Presented at ADA Scientific Sessions 2026 as an abstract
