Double-blind evaluation of efficacy and tolerability of metformin in NIDDM

Abstract

Objective: To test the efficacy and tolerability of metformin.

Research design and methods: An 8-mo double-blind placebo-controlled parallel-group trial was performed at University hospital diabetic clinics on 60 patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) treated by diet alone. Metformin was administered and built up to a maximum dosage of 1 g three times daily.

Results: Mean HbA1 fell from 11.7 +/- 0.4 to 10.3 +/- 0.4% (means +/- SE) on metformin but rose from 11.8 +/- 0.4 to 13.3 +/- 0.4% on placebo (P less than 0.001). Final mean fasting blood glucose was 5.1 mM lower with metformin than placebo (P less than 0.001). No other biochemical variable differed significantly, and weight did not change. A favorable glycemic response was not restricted to the obese. The mean final dosage of metformin was 1.7 +/- 0.1 g and was well tolerated.

Conclusions: Metformin achieved a 23% lower mean HbA1 than placebo without weight gain or significant unwanted effects.