OSTEOARTHRITIS
Metformin for knee osteoarthritis in overweight and obese adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of efficacy, safety, and disease-modifying anti-inflammatory potential.
OrthoEvidence Journal (OE Journal) - ACE Report
Epub Ahead of Print
Inflammopharmacology. 2026 01-Apr;():. 10.1007/s10787-026-02218-1Study Summary
7 studies including 1257 adults with overweight or obesity and symptomatic knee osteoarthritis were included in this systematic review. Pooled outcomes included knee pain and gastrointestinal adverse events. Metformin-based interventions produced a moderate reduction in pain compared with placebo or standard care, although heterogeneity was substantial, and increased the risk of mild gastrointestinal adverse events. Overall, metformin appears promising for symptom control in metabolically complex knee osteoarthritis, but its potential disease-modifying effects require longer trials with structural outcomes.
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