Description

(100 mg/g Topical Formula for Insulin Resistance-Related Skin Conditions)

A Novel, Targeted Approach to Treating Insulin-Linked Dermatological Disorders

Metformin 10% Cream (100 mg/g) is a custom-compounded topical formulation designed to deliver localized anti-inflammatory, insulin-sensitizing, and skin-normalizing effects without systemic exposure. This 30-gram preparation provides clinicians and patients with a promising tool to manage skin disorders associated with insulin resistance, metabolic dysfunction, and inflammatory dermatoses, such as:

• Acanthosis Nigricans

• Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)-associated skin symptoms

• Cutaneous markers of hyperinsulinemia

Formulated to avoid gastrointestinal and systemic side effects commonly seen with oral metformin, this cream is suitable for topical use on affected areas and offers a more focused alternative for patients needing dermatologic and metabolic skin support.

Key Benefits

• Delivers metformin 10% (100 mg/g) directly to affected skin

• Helps reduce inflammation, keratinocyte overproliferation, and hyperpigmentation

• Designed for insulin resistance-linked skin issues such as acanthosis nigricans

• Useful in PCOS-related dermatologic symptoms including oily skin and irritation

• Avoids gastrointestinal side effects associated with oral metformin

• Compounded in a USP <795>-compliant pharmacy

• Supplied in a 30-gram tube or pump, ideal for daily targeted use

Mechanism of Action

Metformin, traditionally used as an oral antidiabetic medication, exhibits a broad spectrum of metabolic and dermatological actions when delivered topically:

• Activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway – improving cellular energy balance

• Reduces local insulin resistance in skin tissue

• Lowers inflammation and oxidative stress at the dermal level

• Decreases hyperkeratinization, which helps reduce thickening and darkness of skin

• Enhances barrier function and reduces sebaceous gland activity

When applied topically, metformin is minimally absorbed systemically, allowing for safer long-term use in patients with sensitive GI systems or multi-drug regimens.

Clinical Applications

This topical formulation is most commonly used for:

1. Acanthosis Nigricans

• Reduces skin thickening and pigmentation

• Targets areas like the neck, armpits, groin, and knuckles

2. PCOS-Associated Skin Changes

• Helps normalize oil production and reduce inflammation in sebaceous-rich areas

• Can assist with adjunctive therapy in facial hyperpigmentation, acne, and hirsutism-linked skin irritation

3. Hidradenitis Suppurativa

• Offers localized anti-inflammatory benefits when applied to recurring nodular regions

4. Metabolic Syndrome-Related Skin Issues

• Addresses cutaneous manifestations of chronic metabolic dysfunction

Patient Benefits

• Non-invasive, easy-to-apply topical formulation

• Safe for daily or maintenance use

• May complement oral therapy or serve as an alternative in sensitive patients

• Offers a non-steroidal approach to managing skin thickening and inflammation

• Suitable for patients seeking metabolic skin support without systemic load

Dosing and Application

• Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin over affected areas

• Use once or twice daily, as directed by a healthcare provider

• Massage gently until fully absorbed

• Avoid application to broken, bleeding, or infected skin

• Wash hands after application

Tolerability and Safety

Topical metformin is typically well tolerated. Possible side effects include:

• Mild redness, itching, or dryness at application site

• Transient burning sensation during initial applications

• Rare local allergic reactions

Systemic absorption is negligible in most patients, but those with sensitive skin should begin with once-daily use to assess tolerance.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to metformin or any excipients in the formulation

• Open wounds, ulcers, or active dermatitis at the application site

• Not for use in pregnant or breastfeeding individuals unless medically approved

Storage and Stability

• Store at 15–25°C (59–77°F)

• Keep away from direct light and moisture

• Do not freeze

• Keep out of reach of children

• For external use only

Who Should Consider This?

Metformin 10% Cream is suitable for:

• Patients with acanthosis nigricans due to obesity or insulin resistance

• Women with PCOS experiencing dermatological symptoms

• Individuals with sensitive GI systems who cannot tolerate oral metformin

• Providers managing cutaneous signs of metabolic dysfunction

• Patients requiring non-systemic adjuncts to hormonal or lifestyle therapies

Metformin 10% Cream – 30 Grams is a well-tolerated, evidence-informed solution for managing skin conditions related to insulin resistance and chronic inflammation. It allows for localized care that aligns with broader metabolic goals—supporting patients with precision, safety, and efficacy.