Does Metformin Lower or Increase Testosterone?

If you have diabetes, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of metformin. This medication is very popular, especially among aging men. Known mainly for treating type 2 diabetes, metformin has many benefits beyond just controlling blood sugar. But are metformin and testosterone connected?

At Victory Men’s Health, our clients frequently discuss their medication routines with us. When we learn they’re taking metformin, it catches our attention, particularly if they’re seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) or weight loss. Addressing these issues is both an art and a science, requiring the expertise of medical professionals who specialize in men’s health.

Whether you’re wondering “Does metformin lower or increase testosterone” or “Is metformin beneficial to non-diabetics” — you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll dive into how metformin affects testosterone levels and why it should be just one part of your overall health plan. 

Let’s Talk About Metformin

Metformin is an oral medication that’s been around for decades and is one of the most widely prescribed medications globally.

What Does Metformin Do?

It works by decreasing glucose production in the liver and improving the body’s sensitivity to insulin. This helps lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes—but metformin’s benefits don’t stop there. 

Research has shown that metformin offers several potential benefits beyond its primary use of blood sugar control, making it an intriguing option for various health concerns:

• Anti-Aging Properties: Metformin may extend your lifespan and improve healthspan by activating an enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which enhances cellular function, reduces oxidative stress, decreases inflammation, and improves mitochondrial function. Studies also show that metformin may offer neuroprotection (lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s) and cardioprotective properties.
  
• Weight Management: By improving insulin sensitivity, reducing appetite, and lowering blood sugar levels, metformin can support healthy eating habits, aid in maintaining a healthy weight, and mitigate obesity-related complications. Metformin has also been known to have a positive effect on the gut microbiome by increasing the abundance of the probiotic Akkermancia muciniphilia.
  
• Cancer Risk Reduction: Studies suggest that metformin may lower the risk of certain cancers, such as breast, colorectal, pancreatic, and prostate cancers, by lowering insulin and glucose levels, inhibiting the mTOR pathway, and reducing inflammation.

Metformin and Testosterone: What’s the Connection?

Understanding the connection between metformin and testosterone is crucial for men concerned about their hormone levels. Testosterone, an essential hormone for men, influences various aspects of your health, including muscle mass, bone density, mood, and libido. Low testosterone levels can lead to issues such as fatigue, depression, and erectile dysfunction. 

So, how does metformin interact with testosterone? Let’s take a look.

1. Improving Insulin Sensitivity and Hormonal Balance

By reducing insulin resistance, metformin helps regulate blood sugar levels, which can have a big impact on your hormone balance. Insulin resistance is often associated with a cluster of metabolic issues, including low testosterone levels. 

Through improved insulin sensitivity, metformin can indirectly support healthier testosterone levels. If you are on TRT and experiencing side effects or are still not where you want to be, insulin resistance might be a contributing factor to consider. Improving your metabolic health is a large part of the approach to optimizing your health and TRT alone may not cut it for some individuals.

2. Weight Loss and Testosterone Levels

Obesity and excess body fat are closely linked to lower testosterone levels. Metformin aids in weight management by reducing appetite and improving insulin sensitivity. Studies have shown that weight reduction in overweight or obese men can lead to increased testosterone levels, as fat cells produce an enzyme called aromatase. By reducing body fat, metformin can help lower the activity of this enzyme (aromatase) and preserve your testosterone levels.

3. Direct Effects on Testosterone Production

Some studies suggest that metformin could directly influence the production of testosterone by the testes. For example, a study on men with type 2 diabetes found that those who took metformin had higher levels of testosterone compared to those who did not. This effect could be attributed to improved insulin sensitivity and better overall metabolic health, which support the endocrine system’s function, including testosterone production.

In supporting the function of your endocrine system, metformin may indirectly support testosterone production. While improving your testosterone to a small degree may not result in symptom improvement, getting your health back on track will be beneficial regardless.

So, does metformin lower or increase testosterone?

The answer isn’t black and white. 

Some studies suggest that metformin can help improve testosterone levels, especially in men who are overweight or struggle with insulin resistance.

This is because metformin helps improve insulin sensitivity, which can positively impact hormone balance.

However, some short-term studies indicate that metformin could lower testosterone levels. This could be due to its effect on reducing overall body weight and fat mass, as excessive/rapid weight loss or changes in your metabolic health can sometimes lead to a temporary drop in testosterone levels. 

With this in mind, it’s essential for men taking medications like metformin to work closely with a men’s health specialist to monitor both their weight loss progress and testosterone levels to ensure optimal health outcomes. If you’re already on TRT and are insulin-resistant, metformin will likely be a positive addition to your regime. 

Does Metformin Cause Erectile Dysfunction (ED)?

Another important aspect to consider is the potential impact of metformin on your erectile function. Erectile dysfunction is a common concern among men, especially as they age. The good news is that metformin does not cause any sexual health/ED side effects. In fact, by improving insulin sensitivity and helping manage blood sugar levels, metformin could positively affect erectile function, particularly in men with diabetes.

It’s worth noting that ED is often influenced by many factors, such as psychological, hormonal, and vascular health. So, while taking metformin itself is not likely to cause ED, it’s essential to address all potential underlying causes to effectively manage and treat the underlying condition.

Is Taking Metformin Worth It If You Have ED?

If you’re struggling with erectile dysfunction, taking metformin may be a good option to consider. Metformin helps manage blood sugar levels, which protects vascular health and nerve function—both crucial for normal erectile function. Additionally, metformin aids in weight management, offers anti-aging benefits, and may reduce the risk of certain cancers. 

At Victory Men’s Health, we can treat ED through various methods, and incorporating metformin into your health regimen allows you to simultaneously address your blood sugar management and other health concerns. 

You don’t have to choose between managing your blood sugar and treating ED—metformin can help with both.

Metformin and Testosterone: Just One Piece of the Puzzle

While metformin offers several potential benefits, it’s important to view it as just one part of a comprehensive approach to your health. At Victory Men’s Health, we believe in personalized care tailored to your unique needs and goals.

We understand that optimizing your health involves looking at the big picture—your hormone levels, nutritional status, physical fitness, and mental well-being. Our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way, providing you with the tools and support you need to achieve optimal health.

For men looking to maintain their vitality and well-being as they age, metformin could be a valuable tool to keep in the arsenal. 

However, it’s important to remember that it’s not a magic bullet. A healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep is crucial.

FAQs: Metformin and Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

1. Can metformin help with erectile dysfunction?

Metformin primarily helps manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, which can indirectly benefit erectile function. By improving insulin sensitivity and reducing blood sugar levels, metformin supports vascular health and nerve function, both crucial for normal erectile function.

2. Does metformin cause ED?

There is no strong evidence to suggest that metformin causes ED. In fact, by improving your overall metabolic health and reducing risk factors associated with ED, metformin may help improve erectile function, particularly in men with diabetes.

3. How does managing blood sugar affect ED?

High blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, leading to complications such as erectile dysfunction. By effectively managing your blood sugar, metformin can help to prevent this damage, which can improve or prevent ED symptoms.

4. Are there additional benefits of taking metformin for men with ED?

Yes, metformin offers several additional benefits:

• Weight Management: Helps aid in weight loss or preventing weight gain.
• Anti-aging Properties: Reduces inflammation, improves cellular function, and protects against age-related diseases.
• Cancer Risk Reduction: May lower the risk of certain cancers.

5. Should I take metformin if I have ED but not diabetes?

Metformin is primarily prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes, not as a form of treatment for ED. There are much more effective treatments for ED. We can help with that!

6. Can metformin be part of a comprehensive ED treatment plan?

Absolutely. At Victory Men’s Health, we offer a variety of treatments for ED, including hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, and psychological support. Metformin can be part of a comprehensive health strategy, especially if managing blood sugar is relevant to your overall health. If you’re interested in taking metformin, we are happy to advise you on whether you should discuss this medication with your primary care physician based on your unique needs.

To explore other treatments for ED, schedule an initial visit with us. For $99, you’ll receive a confidential consultation, comprehensive lab work, PSA testing, testosterone assessment, body composition analysis, and a customized treatment plan. We accept HSA, FSA, and Care Credit cards. 

Take the Next Step with Victory Men’s Health

As you explore the potential benefits of metformin beyond blood sugar control and its effects on testosterone, it’s essential to have the right guidance and support. Our team offers personalized care to address your unique health concerns, whether you’re curious about metformin’s impact on testosterone levels or seeking solutions for erectile dysfunction.

We believe in taking a holistic approach to men’s health, considering factors like hormone levels, nutritional status, physical fitness, and mental well-being to tailor a treatment plan that’s right for you.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward optimizing your health with Victory Men’s Health.