Update on metformin for osteoarthritis treatment

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease among middle-aged and elderly individuals. Metabolic syndrome (Met S), a group of clinical conditions characterized by abnormal metabolic processes, includes obesity as one of its primary risk factors. Recent studies have demonstrated a significant association between metabolic syndrome and osteoarthritis. Metformin, a classical hypoglycemic agent, is commonly prescribed for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who do not achieve adequate control through diet and physical activity alone. Metformin has gradually gained attention in the treatment of OA due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic function-enhancing properties. This review summarizes the latest research on metformin by examining recent clinical and animal studies, systematically analyzing its mechanisms, and assessing its clinical potential in treating OA.