General Dosage
500-1500mg daily (prescription required — do not self-medicate)
Maximum dose: 2000mg/day (for diabetes; longevity doses typically lower at 500-1000mg)
Metformin (Longevity Context) Dosage Guide
Evidence:Emerging
·
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary — consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer
Dosage Recommendations
General recommendation: 500-1500mg daily (prescription required — do not self-medicate)
Timing: With dinner to reduce GI side effects and align with overnight metabolic processes; extended-release preferred • Take with food for best absorption.
Dosage by Condition
Longevity (off-label)
500-1000mg dailyEmerging
Type 2 diabetes (approved use)
500-2000mg dailyStrong
| Condition | Recommended Dose | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Longevity (off-label) | 500-1000mg daily | Emerging |
| Type 2 diabetes (approved use) | 500-2000mg daily | Strong |
Upper limit: 2000mg/day (for diabetes; longevity doses typically lower at 500-1000mg)
Timing & Absorption
With dinner to reduce GI side effects and align with overnight metabolic processes; extended-release preferred
Best taken with food for optimal absorption.
References
- ObservationalBannister CA, Holden SE, Jenkins-Jones S, et al. (2014). Can people with type 2 diabetes live longer than those without? A comparison of mortality in people initiated with metformin or sulphonylurea monotherapy and matched, non-diabetic controls. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism. DOI PubMed
- Meta-analysisGandini S, Puntoni M, Heckman-Stoddard BM, et al. (2014). Metformin and cancer risk and mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis taking into account biases and confounders. Cancer Prevention Research. DOI PubMed
- RCTKonopka AR, Laurin JL, Schoenberg HM, et al. (2019). Metformin inhibits mitochondrial adaptations to aerobic exercise training in older adults. Aging Cell. DOI PubMed