Effect of metformin on patients with impaired glucose tolerance

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Abstract
Aims To evaluate the effect of metformin on glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity and rate of conversion diabetes in people with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). Methods Seventy subjects with IGT were randomized under double‐blind conditions to receive either placebo (n = 37) or metformin (n = 33) at a dosage of 250 mg three times daily for a duration of 12 months. Glycaemic control, plasma insulin and other biochemical indexes were assessed before and after 3, 6 and 12 months. Results At 12 months the conversion rate to diabetes was 16.2% in the placebo group compared to 3.0% for the metformin group (P = 0.011). Of subjects treated with metformin for 12 months, 84.9% became normoglycaemic compared to 51.4% of those receiving the placebo. Significant improvements in fasting glucose, glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity were found at 12 months and at intermediate clinic assessments. Conclusions Metformin can improve glucose metabolism in IGT patients and may be a treatment option in their management of IGT subjects.