Metformin treatment for type 2 diabetes in pregnancy?

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    23 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Metformin lowers blood glucose by reducing hepatic glucose output, increasing insulin sensitivity and enhancing peripheral glucose uptake. Metformin is widely used in women with Type 2 diabetes of child-bearing age, many of whom become pregnant. Studies to date in Type 2 diabetes in pregnancy, gestational diabetes and polycystic ovarian syndrome are reassuring. Metformin is not considered teratogenic. There is sufficient evidence that metformin is safe used throughout pregnancy, with no worsening of obstetric or perinatal outcomes. Women may benefit from the lesser weight gain. The long-term risks to the offspring remain inadequately researched, with no evidence of harm up to 2 years, and no suggestions of later complications in countries using metformin for many years. Metformin is recommended for use in pregnancies complicated by Type 2 diabetes, but women should be informed of the evidence regarding its associated risks and benefits to enable an informed choice over its use.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)625-634
    Number of pages10
    JournalBest Practice and Research: Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
    Volume24
    Issue number4
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2010

    Keywords

    • diabetes
    • non-insulin-dependent diabetes
    • pregnancy

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