A new study, led by clinicians and researchers at the Clinic, has been published in this month’s issue of Molecular Genetics and Metabolism. Managing weight with Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD) is a delicate balancing act, as traditional dieting can often trigger a dangerous metabolic crisis.
This landmark 52-week study followed nine adults with MSUD to see if metformin, a common diabetes medication, could help them slim down safely. The results were encouraging: participants lost an average of 2.8% of their body weight without causing their leucine levels to spike. Most people tolerated the medication well, and many felt more empowered in managing their health—some even felt confident enough to try new foods. By proving that weight loss is possible without risking a medical emergency, this study paves the way for future research into even more effective treatments like GLP-1s.
To learn more, visit the journal’s website HERE.