Could a common diabetes drug ease leg pain for millions?

NCT ID NCT05132439

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether metformin, a standard diabetes drug, can improve walking ability in people with peripheral artery disease (PAD) who experience leg pain during activity. Researchers will give 200 Veterans either metformin or a placebo for several months and measure changes in walking distance. The goal is to find a safe, effective treatment for a condition that currently has few options.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Metformin (extended-release)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could provide a safe, affordable treatment to help people with PAD walk farther and have less leg pain.

What could go wrong

This is still an early-stage test in a specific group (Veterans), and metformin may not improve walking more than a placebo. Side effects like stomach upset are possible.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

atherosclerosis intermittent vascular claudication peripheral arterial disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System University Drive Division, Pittsburgh, PA

    RECRUITING

    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15240, United States

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••