Efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese classic prescriptions combined with metformin in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus: a Bayesian network meta-analysis
Abstract
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycemia. While biomedicine (e.g., metformin) serves as the first-line treatment, combination therapies involving botanical drugs are increasingly utilized. However, the comparative efficacy of different botanical formulations remains to be systematically evaluated.
Aim: This study aims to analyze randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of eight specific classical botanical drug formulas combined with metformin (Met) for T2DM, providing evidence to support integrated clinical management.
Methods: A Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed on RCTs sourced from PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, and Chinese databases. The taxonomic validation of all botanical drugs was conducted using MPNS. Outcomes including HbA1c, FPG, and lipid profiles were assessed using the SUCRA and GRADE methodology.
Results: Forty RCTs involving 3,088 patients were included. In terms of glycemic control, the combination of Huanglian Jiedu Decoction (HLJDD) and Met ranked highest for reducing FPG [MD = -1.46, 95% CrIs=(-2.24, -0.68)], while HLJDD, Zhibai Dihuang Decoction (ZBDHD), and Dachaihu Decoction (DCHD) combined with Met emerged as the most effective for reducing HbA1c. Notably, sensitivity analysis restricted to trials ≥8 weeks identified HLJDD [MD = -1.02, 95% CrIs=(-1.39, -0.66)] and ZBDHD [MD = -1.02, 95% CrIs=(-1.28, -0.76)] as…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 3,088 participants or records.
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