Effect of Metformin Hydrochloride on Blood Sugar and Lipoprotein Metabolism in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitius Patients

Abstract

Metformin hydrochloride is known to decrease blood sugar levels by reducing insulin resistance and controlling glyconeogenesis in the liver. However, its action on serum lipid metabolism and prognostic factors in responsive and non-responsive cases are unclear. In order to ensure that metformin hydrochloride is used properly, we attempted to elucidate the effects of metformin hydrochloride on blood sugar and serum lipid metabolism, which are known risk factors of arteriosclerosis, and the background factors of responsive patients. Metformin hydrochloride was prescribed to 36 patients with type 2 diabetes, who were monitored for 6 months. HemoglobinA_1c (HbA_1c) decreased by 1.1% (P<0.01). In addition, though there were no significant changes in body weight or serum lipids, serum triglycerides (TG) decreased by 20 mg/dL. Looking at the drop in HbA_1c in relation to patient clinical backgrounds at the beginning of administration, a remarkable decrease in blood sugar level was observed in patients who had high HbA_1c, TG, and serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. The decrease in blood sugar was the same regardless of the duration of treatment with glibenclamide before administering metformin hydrochloride. Therefore, to ensure the proper use of metformin hydrochloride it is recommended that serum lipids be used as parameters.