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Metformin-associated lactic acidosis

Orban JC, Ghaddab A, Chatti O, Ichai C

Annales francaises d'anesthesie et de reanimation, 2006

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aims of this review are to precise the pathophysiological mechanisms leading to biguanide-associated lactic acidosis, to give elements of diagnosis, and to underline the precautionary conditions for prescribing these drugs by an improvement in physicians and patient's education.

DATA SOURCES: A PubMed database research in English and French language reports published until December 2005. The keywords were: lactic acidosis, metformin, biguanide, diabetes mellitus.

DATA EXTRACTION: Data in selected articles were reviewed, clinical and basic science research relevant informations were extracted.

DATA SYNTHESIS: Metformin, which is an oral antidiabetic agent, is the only one biguanide available in France. It acts by enhancing the sensitivity to insulin by a decrease in the hepatic glucose production and an increase in its peripheral use. In term of glycemic control, it has the same efficiency than the other hypoglycemic agents. It represents the treatment of choice for overweight type 2 diabetic patients because of its beneficial effects on the weight loss and on the cardiovascular complications. The incidence of metformin-associated lactic acidosis is very low when contra-indications and appropriate rules for prescribing this drug are respected. The relationship between metformin and lactic acidosis remains largely controversial. In practical, we can distinguish three situations which have different prognosis. In the first case, metformin seems to be responsible…

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