Publication
Title
Metformin-associated lactic acidosis (MALA): moving towards a new paradigm
Author
Abstract
Although metformin has been used for over 60 years, the balance between the drug's beneficial and adverse effects is still subject to debate. Following an analysis of how cases of so-called "metformin-associated lactic acidosis" (MALA) are reported in the literature, the present article reviews the pitfalls to be avoided when assessing the purported association between metformin and lactic acidosis. By starting from pathophysiological considerations, we propose a new paradigm for lactic acidosis in metformin-treated patients. Metformin therapy does not necessarily induce metformin accumulation, just as metformin accumulation does not necessarily induce hyperlactatemia, and hyperlactatemia does not necessarily induce lactic acidosis. In contrast to the conventional view, MALA probably accounts for a smaller proportion of cases than either metformin-unrelated lactic acidosis or metformin-induced lactic acidosis. Lastly, this review highlights the need for substantial improvements in the reporting of cases of lactic acidosis in metformin-treated patients. Accordingly, we propose a check-list as a guide to clinical practice.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Diabetes, obesity & metabolism. - Oxford, 1999, currens
Publication
Hoboken : Wiley , 2017
ISSN
1462-8902 [print]
1463-1326 [online]
DOI
10.1111/DOM.12974
Volume/pages
19 :11 (2017) , p. 1502-1512
ISI
000412317500002
Pubmed ID
28417525
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 07.11.2017
Last edited 04.03.2024
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