Impact of oral anti-diabetics on glycemia and weight in T2DM

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Created On: 27/11/2025

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between various antidiabetic medications and weight variations in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through a prospective cohort analysis.

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Key take away

Metformin 500 mg significantly reduces both blood glucose and body weight in T2DM, while voglibose 0.2 mg improves glycemic control. Targeted drug selection and adherence are critical for optimizing metabolic outcomes.

Background

Method

A total of 392 adults with T2DM and a body mass index (BMI) below 30 kg/m² were enrolled. All the participants’ demographics, medical history, weight, BMI, blood glucose levels, and details of their oral diabetic medications (type, dose, frequency, and duration) were recorded. Medication adherence was assessed by employing the validated medication adherence rating scale.

Participants attended monthly follow-ups over 6 months, during which weight and blood glucose levels were measured, medication adherence was reviewed, and any changes in treatment were documented. Weight fluctuations and blood glucose outcomes were analyzed, with a ≥5% change in weight considered clinically significant. Statistical analysis was performed to examine the impact of each medication, adjusting for potential confounding factors.

Result

Both metformin 500 mg and voglibose 0.2 mg were significantly linked with changes in general random blood sugar (GRBS) levels, while metformin 500 mg also exhibited a strong correlation with weight reduction. A slight, clinically insignificant weight gain was noted with glimepiride 1 mg and 2 mg. In contrast, mild weight loss was noted with sitagliptin 100 mg, teneligliptin 20 mg, vildagliptin 50 mg, and voglibose 0.2 mg; however, these changes were not clinically meaningful.

Conclusion

Metformin 500 mg achieved dual benefits by improving glycemic control and reducing body weight, while voglibose 0.2 mg selectively targeted GRBS reduction.