Metformin use refers to the ongoing or past use of metformin, an oral medication commonly prescribed as a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes and sometimes for prediabetes, insulin resistance, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Metformin works primarily by reducing hepatic glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity, which helps lower blood sugar levels without causing significant weight gain or hypoglycemia in most patients. From an underwriting perspective, metformin use is often viewed as a marker of glucose metabolism issues, but it can also indicate proactive medical management and early intervention. Carriers evaluate the underlying diagnosis, A1C levels, duration of treatment, presence of complications, and associated conditions such as obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia when assessing risk. In well-controlled cases with no complications, metformin use alone may still qualify for favorable insurance offers.

In practice, metformin use appears on applications and prescription checks, prompting underwriters to ask whether the medication is being taken for diabetes, prediabetes, or another indication. Producers often need to clarify diagnosis, duration of therapy, dosage, and recent lab results with the client or their physician. If metformin use is associated with well-controlled type 2 diabetes and strong follow-up care, some carriers may offer standard or mildly rated terms, especially when there are no signs of kidney, eye, or cardiovascular complications. When used for prediabetes or PCOS in an otherwise healthy client, the underwriting impact may be minimal once documentation confirms normal A1C and absence of end-organ damage. Advisors can help by obtaining current lab reports and a short physician statement describing stability and treatment goals. Transparent documentation of metformin use helps avoid misunderstandings and supports more accurate, potentially more favorable, underwriting decisions.