Haack and other participants in the clinical trial received a biopsy to confirm the presence of an oral lesion. They also provided blood and saliva samples and underwent a physical exam. Each participant received a regular dose of metformin for 12 weeks under the direction of clinicians. When their trial period was complete, participants had another biopsy and follow-up appointment.
The results of the study will help clinicians better understand whether metformin can prevent the progression of oral cancers and save patients from more aggressive treatment, such as surgery and other cancer treatments.
“With severe dysplasia, people will often receive surgery to excise the lesion,” says Dr. Laronde. “It’s important to find treatments while someone is still pre-cancerous to prevent further harm.”
Metformin has been used to treat patients with diabetes for over 50 years, and recent research shows that it can also prevent certain types of cancer, such as prostate and colon cancers. Clinical trials like this one provide new insights into and potential applications for repurposing this safe and effective prescription drug.
“It was so easy to participate in the trial,” says Haack, “and knowing that I might be helping to advance treatments for other patients is incredibly rewarding.”
Haack will soon be studying towards a master of business degree and is an avid volunteer with the SPCA and Vancouver Pride Society. He says if the opportunity presents itself again, he would gladly participate in another clinical trial.
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