Association of metformin treatment with changes in metal dynamics in individuals with type 2 diabetes
Authors' conclusion
Metformin use was associated with reduced serum levels of copper and iron, as well as with increased serum zinc levels. These changes in metal dynamics may be related to the pharmacological effects of this widely administered drug.
Study context
- Population
- Individuals with T2D treated or not treated with metformin for at least 6 monthsanalysed
- Participants
- 189 individuals
- Exposure
- Metformin users vs non-users
- Metformin usersn = 93
- Non-usersn = 96reference
- Outcome
- Difference in serum copper concentration between metformin users and non-users
Main finding
As reported in the abstract
P < 0.001
Observational data: associations, not effects.
Secondary outcomes
Serum iron · significantly lower with metformin
P = 0.02
Serum zinc · higher with metformin
P = 0.01
Serum homocysteine · significantly higher with metformin
P = 0.03
Vitamin B12 · significantly lower with metformin
P < 0.001
Copper- and iron-related parameters
- Parameters in metformin users consistent with latent deficiencies of these metals
Multiple regression: metformin use as independent predictor of serum copper and iron
µmol/L
- Serum copper, B (p<0.001)
- −1.54
- Serum iron, B (p=0.004)
- −2.49
Original publication
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