Metformin Study and a Cardiac wake up call

[Guest guest]

Happy New Year to all!

Two months ago I posted that my endo Doctor talked me into getting into

a metformin/lifestyle research project at MGH in Boston. I was accepted

and went for my baseline workup last Tuesday. The CT cardiac scan

revealed that I had had a mild heart attack sometime in the last 12

months. I know I'm very overweight but my cholestrol and lipids were

only at the high side of the normal range and a heart attack was not

high on my priority list. Further tests confirmed the initial diagnosis

and I'm going for a stress test before they let me start the lifestyle

part of the study.

I'm writing to tell anyone in the Boston area that if you are

interested in the study they are still looking for subjects.

The lifestyle part of the study is very appealing but needs a high

level of commitment. MGH has private gym set up for 3 one hour sessions

aweek for cardiac workout and resistance training for a year. Not

everyone would get randomized to the lifestyle program but it is well

worth the try. If interested please contact Sara Dolan Looby through Dr

Grinspoon's office in the Neuroendochrine Center to see if you

qualify. Tel 617 726 7984

Even before I knew about my heart attack I was at my wits end about my

constant weight gain and this research study looked very appealing

although it will take a large commitment on my part to make the time

for the exercise program I know it will be worth it. Everyone working

in the study is super nice and very accomodating. It is worth looking

into.

My final word to all is to take the warnings about cardiac problems

posted on this site very seriously and don't think " it couldn't happen

to me " because it will.

Craig