Metformin reduces COVID-19 risk: real-time meta analysis of 107 studies

Significantly lower risk is seen for mortality, ventilation, ICU admission, hospitalization, progression, recovery, and viral clearance. 71 studies from 65 independent teams in 22 countries show significant benefit.

Meta analysis using the most serious outcome reported shows 32% [28‑35%] lower risk. Results are similar for Randomized Controlled Trials, higher quality studies, and peer-reviewed studies.

Results are very robust — in exclusion sensitivity analysis 85 of 107 studies must be excluded to avoid finding statistically significant efficacy in pooled analysis.

Control Metformin

Most studies analyze existing use with diabetic patients. Prophylaxis results typically include continuing use after infection and hospitalization, and greater benefit is seen for more serious outcomes. The TOGETHER RCT shows 27% lower mortality. While not statistically significant, p = 0.53, this is consistent with the mortality results from all studies, 37% [33‑41%].

No treatment is 100% effective. Protocols combine safe and effective options with individual risk/benefit analysis and monitoring. Other treatments are more effective. All data and sources to reproduce this analysis are in the appendix.

23 other meta analyses show significant improvements with metformin for mortality1-22, hospitalization7,13, progression1, and severity8,9,13.

23 meta analyses show significant improvements with metformin for mortality1-22, hospitalization7,13, progression1, and severity8,9,13.