Moore LE, Briery CM, Clokey D, Martin RW, Williford NJ, Bofill JA, Morrison JC
Metformin and insulin in the management of gestational diabetes mellitus: preliminary results of a comparison. [Journal Article]
J Reprod Med 2007 Nov; 52(11):1011-5.
OBJECTIVE: To compare glycemic control and neonatal outcomes in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) treated with metformin vs. insulin.
STUDY DESIGN: Women with GDM not controlled with diet and exercise were randomized to metformin (n = 32) or insulin (n = 31). The levels of glycemic control as well as maternal/neonatal complications were evaluated.
RESULTS: The mean (+/- SD) fasting and 2-hour postprandial blood glucose did not differ statistically between the 2 treatment groups. No patient failed metformin and required insulin. The majority (27/32) were easily controlled on the initial dosage (500 mg twice a day). Gestational age at entry and delivery (p = 0.077, 0.412) were similar. The difference in the rate of cesarean delivery was not statistically significant between the 2 groups (p = 0.102). Neonatal statistics were also not different between the metformin and insulin groups: birth weight, Apgar score at 5 minutes, respiratory distress syndrome, hyperbilirubinemia, neonatal hypoglycemia and neonatal intensive care unit admission (p = 0.144-0.373).
CONCLUSION: Based on these preliminary data, metformin appears to be an effective alternative to insulin in the treatment of GDM.
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