Benefit of Adding Metformin with A GLP-1

By: Scottsdale Weight Loss Center

Published: June 29, 2024

Call for a Consultation

emergency kit including a glucagon syringe

How to Preserve Muscle During Weight Loss with Protein

Jul 1, 2026

When most people try to lose weight, they watch one number: the scale. But not all weight loss is...

Please Don’t Drink Your Calories if You’re Focused on Weight Loss

Apr 28, 2026

Liquid calories are fluids consumed as part of your daily diet that often go unnoticed and...

Rock Climbing: Lose Weight on the Wall

Apr 28, 2026

If your weight loss efforts have hit a wall, why not climb it? Rock climbing is becoming an...

Weight Watchers vs. Medical Weight Loss Programs in Scottsdale: Comparing the Results

Apr 28, 2026

Many residents in Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Glendale struggle with weight loss plateaus despite...

Arizona Medical Weight Loss Programs vs Online Programs: Which One Provides the Best Results?

Mar 25, 2026

The weight loss landscape has shifted significantly with the rise of digital health platforms....

Is Brown Rice Healthier Than White Rice?

Feb 27, 2026

Is brown rice better than white rice? Intuitively, one would think that brown rice is much...

« Older Entries

Return To Blog

Combining GLP-1 agonists (such as liraglutide, semaglutide and tirzepatide) with metformin can offer several benefits for weight loss, especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes or obesity:

Synergistic Effects: GLP-1 agonists and metformin work through different mechanisms to lower blood sugar levels and promote weight loss. Combining them can have synergistic effects, enhancing their individual benefits.
Appetite Suppression: GLP-1 agonists are known to reduce appetite and promote feelings of fullness, which can lead to decreased food intake and subsequent weight loss. Metformin can also contribute to appetite suppression.
Glucose Control: Both GLP-1 agonists and metformin help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood glucose levels. Better glucose control can prevent excessive hunger and cravings, aiding in weight loss efforts.
Fat Metabolism: GLP-1 agonists and metformin may influence lipid metabolism, promoting the breakdown of fat stores and inhibiting fat accumulation. This can contribute to overall weight loss and improvements in body composition. Metformin may inhibit the process of lipogenesis (creation of fat cells) and may also increase the body’s ability to burn fat for energy.
Cardiovascular Benefits: Both GLP-1 agonists and metformin have been shown to have cardiovascular benefits beyond their effects on weight loss, including reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Combining these medications may provide additional cardiovascular protection. In addition, metformin has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which are often elevated in people with obesity, positively contributing to overall cardiovascular health.
Improved gut microbiota: There is recent evidence that suggests that metformin may also positively impact the composition of gut bacteria, which can have implications for weight regulation and metabolic health.
Long-term Weight Maintenance: Studies suggest that the combination of GLP-1 agonists and metformin may help individuals achieve sustainable weight loss and prevent weight regain over the long term, especially when used in conjunction with lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise.

Overall, the combination of GLP-1 agonists and metformin can be a powerful therapeutic strategy for achieving weight loss and improving metabolic health in individuals with type 2 diabetes or obesity. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual needs and medical history.

References

Paloma Rodriguez, MD, Kevin M. Pantalone, DO, ECNU, FACE, Marcio L. Griebeler, MD and Bartolome Burguera, MD, PhD., Should I consider metformin therapy for weight loss in patients with obesity but without diabetes? Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine September 2023, 90 (9) 545-548; DOI: https://doi.org/10.3949/ccjm.90a.22096

Popoviciu MS, Păduraru L, Yahya G, Metwally K, Cavalu S. Emerging Role of GLP-1 Agonists in Obesity: A Comprehensive Review of Randomised Controlled Trials. Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Jun 21;24(13):10449. doi: 10.3390/ijms241310449. PMID: 37445623; PMCID: PMC10341852.

nick weight loss before and after scottsdale weight loss center

Nick's Story

"I wish I would have come here first. We spend all our time reacting to the next great weight loss tip or program. It might work for a while, but does not last and we end up yo-yoing from one fad to the next – as we gain more weight." Read More

gina weight loss before and after scottsdale weight loss center

Lost 44.5 lbs

"I had no trouble adhering to the meals and they really helped catapult my progress! The classes were so beneficial to me because they helped change my thinking about how I viewed health, nutrition, and fitness.

I will always have my relationship with Scottsdale Weight Loss Center. They truly helped me change my life forever." Read More

lauren weight loss before and after scottsdale weight loss center

Lost 60 lbs

"Dr. Ziltzer and everyone who I have come in contact with at the Scottsdale Weight Loss office have been so encouraging and I look forward to seeing them each week. It is now a year and 2 months later since I started. I am down 60 lbs., which is the average amount a 9-year-old weighs, it is crazy to think I lost a whole person! I feel amazing, I hit my goal weight in November 2021 just before Thanksgiving. Nothing on my body hurts anymore..." Read More

chuck h weight loss before and after scottsdale weight loss center

Lost 66 lbs

"The best thing I did was call the Scottsdale Weight Loss Center. I have a lot more energy, I'm not hungry, and it feels great.

You can take it from me that this is a program that produces results. The staff is always positive, supportive, and never judgmental.

Your visits always result in positive reinforcement, no matter if you had a good week or a bad week." Read More

emily weight loss before and after scottsdale weight loss center

Lost 101 lbs

"Here I am at the lowest I have been since high school weighing in at 155lbs. I have lost 101 lbs, BMI of 39 when I started, to 21.6, and of course at body fat % of 47.1 to 26.5%. I told myself by my 30th birthday I wanted to be confident in the way I look and I owe it all to SWLC. The entire staff is so welcoming and they are rooting for you just as much as you are rooting for yourself...." Read More

Reviews

      Excellent rating  
 Based on 420 reviews 
    
  
 
 
     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Diana is the Best!!
     
   Sara M 
 4 days ago
 
 
 
 
   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great place 30 lbs.and counting thank you
And now it is over 40 lbs. and counting thank you great job
     
   John J 
 21 days ago
 
 
 
 
   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best of the best - Dr. Z !!
     
   Mar S 
 25 days ago
 
 
 
 
   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The Biltmore location is top notch! Everyone there is so very friendly, professional and makes the experience so personal and easy. Highly recommend!
     
   Sue M 
 27 days ago
 
 
 
 
   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This practice is everything you would want from a physician office. Professional and knowledgeable staff and caring providers 10 stars!!!!
     
   Lisa Y 
 33 days ago
 
 
 
 
   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Everything perfect
     
   Andi K 
 39 days ago
 
 
 
 
   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I landed at Scottsdale Weight Loss 13 years ago and lost 50 pounds….regained 10 and then lost them again, plus another 20.  It is a great program, and all the professionals are amazing and caring.
     
   Mj W 
 45 days ago
 
 
 
 
   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. SWL has been a God send to me! Dr. Guzman & staff especially Lilia & Bianca! They’re so supportive & professional I have lost approx 50 pounds over the year at my own pace.
     
   Donna L 
 47 days ago
 
 
 
 
   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr Robert Ziltzer! He helped me reach my ideal weight and more importantly maintain it for over 2 years. He has also helped me keep my blood pressure exactly where my internist wanted it. Dr Ziltzer is not only exceptional in weight management but also a truly gifted internet’s. His knowledge, kindness, and dedication are remarkable. I am deeply grateful for his care and recommend him whole heartedly!
     
   Merle S 
 70 days ago
 
 
 
 
   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The staff at the Phoenix office are great! My experience with Dr deGuzman has been wonderful. Miriam has always been very helpful and makes the office visits pleasant and personal. The medical assistants have always been professional and great to help meet my goals.
     
   Paula S 
 73 days ago
 
 
 
 
   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I really felt comfortable with Kristen at my initial appointment.  Everyone at the center was caring and friendly, from Bianca, at the front desk, to Lily, who is the MA.  Kristen listened to my frustrations and prior disappointments about what has not worked, and is confident that she can help me achieve my goals of weight loss.  I am looking forward and excited to see the success I will attain.
     
   Joyce K 
 80 days ago
 
 
 
 
   Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing staff and great program!  Feeling great!
     
   Brian H 
 84 days ago
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
   Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more