Association between metformin and physical activity with glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Abstract Objective To examine the combined association between metformin use and physical activity on HbA1c in adults with type 2 diabetes. Research Design and Methods Adults with type 2 diabetes from NHANES continuous survey (1999‐2018, n = 6447) were classified as active and inactive based on self‐reported engagement in moderate‐to‐vigorous or vigorous physical activity (MVPA or VigPA) and metformin use over the last month. Results There was a significant negative main effect of metformin usage on HbA1c levels, independent of whether individuals engaged in modest levels of MVPA or VigPA. Moreover, there was a higher prevalence of metformin users with a HbA1c .05). Conclusions There appears to be independent benefits of metformin and regular physical activity on glucose control, but the impact of these two treatments are not necessarily additive. Based on this analyses, the benefit of physical activity on HbA1c levels in type 2 diabetes is likely more apparent in those not taking metformin, as compared to those who are.