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Contraindications to metformin therapy among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

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Abstract

Objective

The biguanide, metformin, is a commonly prescribed oral antihyperglycemic agent. However, there are several clinical conditions that are considered as contraindications to the use of metformin among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence and nature of contraindications to metformin therapy among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Method

A retrospective study of the medical files of diabetic patients available at Alwosta clinic, north Palestine was carried out. Information about disease and medication profile of the patients was retrieved and analyzed using SPSS during the study period in 2004/2005. Focus was on metformin users who have contraindications to metfromin therapy.

Main outcome measure

Presence and number of contraindications to metformin therapy.

Results

Two hundred and seventy-two type 2 diabetic patients were identified. One hundred and twenty four of those diabetic patients were metformin users. Approximately, 60% of patients in the metformin group had a least one contraindication. Congestive heart failure and renal impairment were the most quantitatively present contraindications.

Conclusion

Contraindications to metformin therapy are common among type 2 diabetic patients and mostly disregarded. Patients have to be critically assessed before starting therapy and in case of metformin prescribing; dose should be adjusted based on the presence of risk factors for metformin adverse effects.

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Acknowledgement

The author is very grateful for the Palestinian Ministry of Health for all the support that they have given in order to complete this project. The author would like also to specially thank Dr. Ola Aker for her help in the clinics.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Clinical Pharmacy Graduate Program, An-Najah National University, P.O. Box 7,707, Nablus, Palestine

    Waleed M. Sweileh

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  1. Waleed M. Sweileh
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Correspondence to Waleed M. Sweileh.

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Sweileh, W.M. Contraindications to metformin therapy among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Pharm World Sci 29, 587–592 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11096-007-9095-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11096-007-9095-1

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