In a nutshell
This study examined the effect of metformin (Glucophage) on control of blood glucose levels (glycemic control) in overweight and obese young people with type 1 diabetes. It determined that metformin lead to slight improvements in HbA1c levels (average blood glucose over the last 3 months).
Some background
Overweight or obese young people with T1D tend to have poor glycemic control. Insulin resistance may be a cause. Insulin resistance means that the body stops responding to insulin.
Metformin increases insulin sensitivity in the liver, decreasing the amount of glucose that the liver makes. It is a standard treatment option for type 2 diabetes. The role of metformin in improving glycemic control in overweight or obese young people with T1D is unclear.
Methods & findings
28 overweight or obese young people with T1D took part in this study. 15 patients were randomly assigned to treatment with metformin. 13 received a placebo (drug with no active effect). The participants were examined every 3 months for 9 months of treatment.
Small improvements in HbA1c levels were seen compared to the placebo group. HbA1c levels were 0.4% lower in the metformin group than the placebo group. Participants in the metformin group needed less long-acting insulin than the placebo group during the study. No significant differences in fasting blood glucose levels or side effects (including hypoglycemia) were found between the two groups.
The bottom line
The study concluded that metformin may improve glycemic control in patient overweight or obese young people with T1D.
The fine print
This study only examined a small number of people. This could affect accuracy. Physical activity and diet were not measured, but may have affected glycemic control. Furthermore, the study was funded by a company that manufactures drugs to treat diabetes.
What’s next?
Discuss the use of metformin with your physician.
Published By :
PLOS ONE
Date :
Sep 14, 2015
