Metformin reduced the incidence of intermediate age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by 37% over five years in people with Type 2 diabetes, according to a 2026 observational study.
Researchers analyzed more than 2,500 participants aged 50 or older from the Individualised Screening for Diabetic Retinopathy study. All had Type 2 diabetes and gradable fundus photographs.
Those prescribed metformin showed a substantially lower risk of intermediate AMD, aligning with the drug’s known biological mechanisms. While univariate analysis suggested a benefit for late AMD, the effect did not hold after adjusting for age and sex. No link was found for early AMD.
The study lacked data on dosage, duration, and adherence. It relied on color fundus photography instead of optical coherence tomography, limiting sensitivity. Results are not generalizable beyond diabetic populations.
Experts urge further research into metformin’s role in preventing AMD progression before vision loss occurs, which could reduce patient burden and healthcare costs.