A narrative review of metformin in pregnancy: Navigating benefit and uncertainty
Abstract
Metformin is well-established as a treatment for type 2 diabetes in non-pregnant individuals. The low cost, acceptability and broad tolerability of metformin have also made it an attractive option for research into the treatment of other conditions associated with insulin resistance. Despite almost 50 years of clinical experience with the use of metformin to treat diabetes in pregnancy, many questions remain regarding its precise effectiveness in different maternal subgroups, as well as potential short-term and long-term effects on the offspring. In this narrative review, we present the current evidence for the use of metformin during pregnancy in various maternal subgroups, including women living with overweight and obesity, women at risk of gestational diabetes, women diagnosed with gestational diabetes and women with pregestational diabetes, including type 2 diabetes. Our specific focus is on the impact of metformin on short-term maternal, fetal and neonatal outcomes. We also consider the evidence for other emerging indications for metformin in pregnancy, such as the prevention and management of pre-eclampsia. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: This article looks at research on how metformin use in pregnancy affects mothers and newborns in the short term. Doctors have prescribed metformin since the 1970s for the treatment of diabetes in pregnancy. Despite years of use, there are still questions about how safe and effective metformin is for mothers and their children. Metformin taken…
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