Dave Asprey's Evolving View on Metformin
For a time, the renowned biohacker and founder of Bulletproof, Dave Asprey, did take metformin for its potential longevity benefits. However, he has publicly stated that he stopped using the drug on a regular basis after experiencing a common side effect: vitamin B12 deficiency. His experience highlights the complexities of taking off-label medications and has informed his current, more nuanced recommendation for those considering metformin.
While Asprey used metformin for around three years, his decision to stop reflects a core principle of biohacking: constantly monitoring one's own body and adjusting strategies based on the data and results. He now advises a different approach for those interested in the drug, suggesting infrequent use (two to three times a week) and specifically pairing it with methylated B12 to counteract the potential for deficiency. This adjustment underscores a move away from a daily, unmonitored protocol toward a more targeted, responsive strategy.
Metformin's Role in the Biohacking Community
Metformin, originally a diabetes medication, gained traction among biohackers and longevity enthusiasts due to its reported benefits in managing blood sugar and its potential to mimic the effects of caloric restriction. This interest, however, exists largely outside of its approved medical use, a practice known as “off-label” use.
The Longevity Science: Promising but Mixed
Research into metformin's anti-aging potential in healthy individuals is still ongoing and has produced mixed results. Some studies in animals and observational studies in diabetic patients have shown promising links to reduced age-related disease and increased lifespan. However, other analyses have yielded conflicting findings or shown that benefits for healthy individuals might be short-lived. The long-anticipated T.A.M.E. (Targeting Aging With Metformin) trial, which aims to study metformin's effects on healthy older adults, could provide more definitive answers but has faced delays.
Common Side Effects and Risks
While generally considered safe for its approved use, off-label metformin use carries risks. As Asprey discovered, vitamin B12 deficiency is a known side effect of long-term metformin use, which can lead to tiredness, breathlessness, and potential nerve damage. Other common side effects include gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea. More serious side effects, though rare, can also occur. Some longevity enthusiasts have also expressed concern that metformin might inhibit muscle protein synthesis, potentially counteracting the benefits of strength training for muscle mass as we age.
Dave Asprey's Alternative Biohacking Strategies
After moving away from daily metformin, Asprey has continued to promote a wide range of other longevity protocols centered around diet, lifestyle, and supplementation. These strategies emphasize metabolic health, inflammation reduction, and cellular repair, which are all areas that metformin was initially hoped to address.
Asprey's Longevity-Focused Habits
- Intermittent Fasting: Asprey is a major proponent of intermittent fasting, suggesting it can boost energy and help with weight management. He explores the science behind fasting and its benefits in his book Fast This Way.
- Specific Supplements: In place of or alongside other methods, Asprey focuses on specific supplements to support longevity. These include vitamin DAKE (a blend of vitamins D, A, K, and E), magnesium, and a broad-spectrum mineral blend.
- Metabolic Management: His overall approach prioritizes metabolic health and focuses on controlling blood sugar through diet, even without medication. The Bulletproof Diet is designed to keep blood sugar stable and reduce cravings.
Dave Asprey's Past vs. Present Stance on Metformin
| Aspect | Past Stance (c. 2016-2019) | Present Stance (Post-2019) |
|---|---|---|
| Metformin Use | Took daily for approximately three years. | No longer takes daily; recommends infrequent use (2-3 times/week). |
| Primary Goal | Leveraging metformin's reported longevity benefits. | Addressing metabolic health and longevity through a broader biohacking approach. |
| Reason for Change | Discontinued daily use due to developing a vitamin B12 deficiency. | Emphasis on addressing side effects; requires pairing metformin with methylated B12. |
| Protocol | Not publicly detailed, but implied to be regular daily intake. | A targeted approach, emphasizing other foundational biohacks like diet and supplementation first. |
Conclusion: Personalized Biohacking
In summary, Dave Asprey does not currently take metformin on a daily basis, and his personal experience with B12 deficiency led him to refine his recommendations. His journey with the drug serves as an important case study in the world of biohacking, demonstrating that a one-size-fits-all approach to longevity is often ineffective. For Asprey, the benefits of daily metformin were eventually outweighed by the side effects, prompting a shift in strategy. Today, his emphasis remains on broader, personalized biohacking protocols that prioritize metabolic health, tailored supplementation, and mindful lifestyle choices. Anyone considering off-label use of metformin should follow Asprey's example by closely monitoring their health and consulting with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss potential risks and benefits.
For more information on the science behind metformin and aging, see Harvard Health's article "Is metformin a wonder drug?".
