Big development in medical science: This cheap and the most popular diabetes drug used worldwide could help fight colon cancer

A popular, inexpensive diabetes medication might have a strong new use. Scientists are now investigating a 20-cent wonder drug, metformin's potential to aid in the combat against colon cancer, and the early findings are encouraging.

This surprising turn of events may be a turning point, particularly since the drug is already widely used and fairly affordable. Experts are cautiously optimistic as the research continues.

Although not a cure on its own, initial research indicates that it can enhance other treatments, especially for hard-to-treat cancers. The drug's safety profile and low cost make it a good choice.

Researchers who gave presentations at last week's American Association for Cancer Research conference in Chicago are examining the interactions between metformin, the most widely used diabetes drug globally, and difficult-to-treat colon cancer cells. They are still in the early stages of their research, as per a report by Business Insider.

Holli Loomans-Kropp, a gastrointestinal cancer prevention researcher at The Ohio State University who is spearheading the ongoing study, claimed that metformin "seems like it could have a really interesting supplemental approach to therapy." "We're opening up some doors to what this could do, as quoted in a report by Business Insider.

How does metformin affect colon cancer cells?

According to earlier studies, colon cancer rates are lower among diabetics taking metformin, which may indicate that the medication is taking some preventative action against the development of cancer.

One of the first studies to examine whether metformin may actually combat colon cancer cells after the disease has progressed is this new one.

According to what Loomans-Kropp and her colleagues have observed thus far in cell-culture dishes, metformin may eventually prove to be a useful "supplement" to specific cancer treatment plans.

It could be used in conjunction with other treatments, but it wouldn't be strong enough to treat cancer on its own.

The drug's potential to treat a common type of colon cancer that is often difficult to treat due to a mutated KRAS gene excites Loomans-Kropp. Before human clinical trials can start, more animal testing is necessary, so her research is still in its early phases.

Why are researchers optimistic about metformin’s potential?

The fact that metformin is a medication that is already widely available and reasonably priced makes it a practical choice for treating colon cancer, according to Loomans-Kropp.

Millions of people around the world have studied and taken metformin, which is inexpensive as an off-patent generic medication that costs 10 to 20 cents per pill. Because it controls how the body uses energy and promotes autophagy, which enables the body to break down old and damaged cells, some scientists think it may have potential as an antiaging medication.

According to Loomans-Kropp, metformin may also prevent colon cancer cells from utilising energy for growth and development.

What’s next in the study before human trials begin?

Metformin as a disease prevention tool excites longitudinal researchers. Metformin may be a "suitable" option for cancer prevention, according to Dr. Nir Barzilai, a renowned longevity researcher who believes the medication may be helpful for healthy ageing.

Within a year, she can start testing metformin as a treatment for colon cancer in animals if these preliminary cancer cell results are positive.

FAQs

Does metformin cure colon cancer?
No, but it may supplement other treatments, particularly for aggressive forms of the disease.

Why is metformin being considered as a cancer treatment?
As it alters how cells use energy, it may slow cancer growth; additionally, it is inexpensive and already widely used.