Study shows diabetes drug reduces early puberty risk for girls

BARCELONA, Spain A drug normally used for treating diabetes can also reduce the risk of early puberty in girls, according to a Spanish study presented at the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting on Monday.

A study at the University of Barcelona examined 38 girls who had developed pubic hair before age 8, a sign of early puberty, as well as showing other signs. The girls who received the drug metformin began puberty and menstruation later than the ones who didn’t.

Early puberty in girls increases the risk of short adult height, breast cancer and infertility.

Metformin is the active ingredient in Glucophage, developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb, and several generic drugs. It is used to treat type 2 diabetes.