Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

There is good evidence supporting more extensive use of metformin in type 2 diabetes, in reducing morbidity and mortality. The evidence for a real problem from metformin-induced lactic acidosis is weak, and the risks of alternative agents are often overlooked. We have examined the available data regarding metformin that might cause concern in patients with kidney disease, and find it to be extremely limited. There is no good data on which to offer guidance, but it seems likely that metformin can be used in patients with GFR 60-90 ml/min but at reduced dose at lower levels of GFR, and can probably be safely used at GFRs from 30-60 ml/min but with the same caution as with any renally excreted drug. The risks (often overlooked) and benefits of alternative hypoglycaemic agents should be considered carefully. The overall evidence that metformin causes major harm is poor.

Original publication

DOI

10.1007/s11255-008-9371-6

Type

Journal article

Journal

Int Urol Nephrol

Publication Date

2008

Volume

40

Pages

411 - 417

Keywords

Acidosis, Lactic, Animals, Contraindications, Creatinine, Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2, Diabetic Angiopathies, Diabetic Nephropathies, Glomerular Filtration Rate, Humans, Hypoglycemic Agents, Kidney, Liver, Metformin