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Metformin vs GLP-1 for Weight and Diabetes

Carson @ Eden
May 27, 2025

Last Updated:

Weight Loss
10 min read

Comparing metformin vs GLP-1 for weight managemetn and diabetes? Explore key differences in benefits, side effects, and how to choose the right approach with your licensed healthcare provider.

Key takeaways
  • Metformin improves insulin sensitivity, while GLP-1 mimics a gut hormone to regulate appetite
  • GLP-1 leads to greater weight loss and cardiovascular benefits, while metformin is often first-line and affordable ¹
  • Both can cause GI side effects, though GLP-1’s may be more prominent early on
  • The right treatment depends on your goals, risk profile, and provider assessment

If you’re managing type 2 diabetes or pursuing medical weight loss, you’ve likely encountered metformin and GLP-1. Both medications are approved for blood sugar control, but they differ significantly in how they affect appetite, insulin, and weight loss.


This guide compares metformin vs GLP-1 across mechanism, effectiveness, side effects, and how licensed medical providers choose between them based on individual health needs.

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What Is Metformin?

Metformin is a biguanide, considered the first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes. It works by:

  • Suppressing hepatic glucose production
  • Improving peripheral insulin sensitivity
  • Lowering fasting and post-meal glucose levels

It’s widely used due to its affordability, safety record, and oral dosing ¹.

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Metformin vs GLP-1: Key Comparison

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Feature Metformin GLP-1
Class Biguanide GLP-1 (receptor agonist)
FDA Approval Type 2 diabetes Type 2 diabetes, chronic weight management
Weight Loss Potential Modest (2–5 lbs) Significant (up to 15%)¹
Dosing Daily oral Weekly injection or daily oral
GI Side Effects Nausea, diarrhea Nausea, vomiting, constipation
Cardiovascular Benefit Modest Strongly supported²
Cost (No Insurance)* $5–$20/month $900–$1300/month
Pregnancy Use Often continued Not recommended

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*At the time of publishing, pricing may vary according to location and manufacturer pricing.

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Benefits of GLP-1

  1. Superior Weight Management
    In trials, GLP-1 patients lost up to 15% of body weight, particularly when paired with diet and movement plans ¹.
  2. Cardiometabolic Protection
    GLP-1 significantly reduced major cardiovascular events in patients with and without diabetes ²⁴.
  3. Appetite Control
    It helps regulate hunger by acting on brain satiety centers, making healthy eating easier.

‍

Benefits of Metformin

  1. Reliable Glucose Control
    Effective at lowering A1C and fasting glucose, especially in newly diagnosed patients ¹.
  2. Cost-Effective
    Generic availability makes it one of the most affordable diabetes medications.
  3. Versatile Use
    Commonly prescribed for conditions beyond type 2 diabetes, including PCOS, weight management, and longevity-related research, when deemed appropriate by a licensed healthcare provider.

‍

Downsides of GLP-1

  • Higher cost without insurance
  • Mostly injectable (oral form available)
  • Side effects: nausea, vomiting, constipation
  • Rare risks: pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, thyroid C-cell tumors in animals ¹

‍

Downsides of Metformin

  • Common early GI issues: bloating, diarrhea
  • May reduce vitamin B12 levels over time
  • Rare risk of lactic acidosis in patients with poor kidney function

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Can Metformin and GLP-1 Be Used Together?

Yes, and often are. Providers may combine both to:

  • Improve glycemic control
  • Support synergistic weight loss
  • Address multiple metabolic pathways

This combo has been shown to offer additive cardiovascular and glycemic benefits ²⁴.

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Which Option May Be Right for You?

‍

Consider Metformin If You: Consider GLP-1 If You:
Are newly diagnosed with diabetes Have obesity or high cardiovascular risk
Prefer a low-cost oral pill Want stronger weight loss and appetite control
Want a medication with long history Have tried metformin and need more comprehensive care

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Some patients start with metformin and add GLP-1 later, while others begin with GLP-1 therapy based on weight or cardiovascular needs ¹².

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How Eden Can Help

Eden connects patients with licensed medical providers for FDA-approved GLP-1 treatments. Our model includes:

  • Online health assessments
  • Clinician-led treatment planning
  • Transparent, flat-rate pricing
  • Ongoing support for dosing, side effects, and nutrition

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Final Thoughts

When comparing metformin vs GLP-1, the best choice depends on your metabolic goals, risk profile, and licensed medical provider guidance. Both drugs support blood sugar management, but GLP-1 may provide greater weight management and cardiovascular protection.


If you're unsure where to start, Eden offers the expert guidance you need to make informed decisions.

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Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take both together?

Yes, they target different pathways and are often used in combination ².

Which causes more weight loss?

GLP-1. Studies show up to 15% weight loss vs 2–5 lbs with metformin ¹³.

Are they safe long-term?

Yes, with provider monitoring. Both have strong safety data, though different side effect profiles ¹.

Do I still need to eat well and exercise?

Yes. Both are most effective when combined with healthy lifestyle choices.

How can I get started with GLP-1?

Visit tryeden.com to begin your consultation.

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References

  1. Goldenberg, R., & Steen, O. (2019). GLP-1: Review and Place in Therapy for Adults With Type 2 Diabetes. Canadian Journal of Diabetes, 43(2), 136–145. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.JCJD.2018.05.008‍
  2. Husain, M., Consoli, A., De Remigis, A., Meyer, A. S. P., Rasmussen, S. K., & Bain, S. (2022). GLP-1 reduces cardiovascular events regardless of metformin use: a post hoc subgroup analysis of SUSTAIN 6 and PIONEER 6. Cardiovascular Diabetology, 21(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12933-022-01489-6 
  1. Armstrong, M. J., Okanoue, T., Palle, M. S., Sejling, A., Tawfik, M., & Roden, M. (2024). Similar weight loss with GLP-1 regardless of diabetes and cardiometabolic risk parameters in individuals with metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease: Post hoc analysis of three randomised controlled trials. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 27(2), 710–718. https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.16065 
  2. Lǐ, Y., Lv, C., Cao, L., Sun, L., & Ma, Y. (2024). GLP-1 and major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with and without DM: a systematic review and meta-analysis. https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5687083/v1