Several large observational studies have suggested metformin has anti-tumor effects and may be beneficial as an adjunctive treatment option for breast cancer. This hypothesis was tested by a randomized clinical trial recently published. Listen to host Geoff Wall discuss if metformin is a miracle drug. 

The GameChanger 

Metformin can alter insulin signaling which is crucial for the development of certain types of cancer cells. Thus, in various observational and pre-clinical studies, metformin has been associated with better outcomes in breast cancer, usually in patients with diabetes. A recently published RCT found no benefit of taking adjunctive metformin in patients with breast cancer and no diabetes.  

Show Segments 

00:00 – Introductions 
01:19 – Metformin in the Treatment of Breast Cancer 
02:21 – Insulin Signaling in Tumor Cell Development  
06:54 – Effect of Metformin Vs Placebo on Invasive Disease-Free Survival in Patients with Breast Cancer: The MA.32 Randomized Clinical Trial 
17:09 – Connecting to Practice & Further Studies  
21:17 – The GameChanger 
21:55 – Closing Remarks 

Host 

Geoff Wall, PharmD, BCPS, FCCP, CGP
Professor of Pharmacy Practice, Drake University
Internal Medicine/Critical Care, UnityPoint Health


References and Resources 

Effect of Metformin vs Placebo on Invasive Disease–Free Survival in Patients With Breast Cancer: The MA.32 Randomized Clinical Trial


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CE Information
Learning Objectives 

Upon successful completion of this knowledge-based activity, participants should be able to: 

1. Describe the potential mechanism(s) of action of metformin as an anti-tumor agent 
2. Discuss the MA.32 study and role of metformin in breast cancer treatment 

 0.05 CEU/0.5 Hr
UAN: 0107-0000-22-248-H01-P
Initial release date: 7/18/22
Expiration date: 7/18/23
Additional CPE and CME details can be found here. 

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