Diabetes Drug Metformin May Mimic Exercise Benefits for Prostate Cancer Patients

New research suggests metformin could help manage metabolic side effects of cancer treatment.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 5:30am

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray image showing the intricate internal structure of a human prostate gland, with glowing lines and shapes representing the organ's metabolic pathways.An X-ray view reveals the complex metabolic processes within the prostate gland that may be influenced by diabetes drugs like metformin.Today in Miami

A study from the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center found that the diabetes drug metformin may help mimic some of the metabolic benefits of exercise, even in prostate cancer patients whose physical activity is limited. The research focuses on a molecule called N-lactoyl-phenylalanine (Lac-Phe) that is naturally produced during exercise and linked to appetite regulation and weight control. Interestingly, researchers observed elevated Lac-Phe levels in patients taking metformin, suggesting the drug may be activating a pathway typically associated with exercise.

Why it matters

Cancer treatments, especially hormone therapy for prostate cancer, can significantly disrupt a patient's metabolism, leading to weight gain, insulin resistance, and increased cardiovascular risk. These metabolic changes not only impact quality of life but can also influence treatment outcomes. Researchers are increasingly focused on finding ways to mitigate these effects, and the potential of metformin to provide metabolic support is an important new avenue of exploration.

The details

The study found that metformin raised levels of the metabolite Lac-Phe, even without increased physical activity. This suggests the drug may be activating pathways typically associated with exercise, potentially offering metabolic benefits for patients whose activity is limited. Researchers also observed elevated Lac-Phe levels in patients receiving other metabolic therapies, hinting that the effect may not be specific to metformin but rather a general metabolic response.

  • The study was conducted by researchers at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.

The players

Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

A cancer research and treatment center located in Miami, Florida.

Priyamvada Rai

A researcher at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center who emphasizes that cancer care should support the whole patient, not just target the tumor.

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What they’re saying

“Cancer care isn't solely about targeting tumors; it's about supporting the whole patient. By understanding how treatments affect metabolism, clinicians can identify ways to aid patients maintain strength, resilience, and quality of life throughout their care.”

— Priyamvada Rai, Researcher, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

What’s next

Researchers plan to further explore the potential of metformin and other metabolic interventions to support cancer patients, including investigating their applications in a broader range of cancer types and treatments.

The takeaway

This research highlights the growing importance of addressing the metabolic impacts of cancer care, not just the direct effects on tumors. By leveraging existing drugs like metformin, clinicians may be able to help prostate cancer patients and others maintain better overall health and quality of life during their treatment.