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What Does Decline In Kidney Function After Use Of Metformin Suggest?
Question: I am a 75 year old white male in relatively good shape. I engage in aerobic activity at least six days a week. Over the past 6 months, my kidney function has sharply declined. In April 2014, my GFR was 72.3 and my Creatinine level was 1.01. My latest lab results show a GFR of 56.3 and a Creatinine level of 1.26. This sudden decline in my kidney function coincided with the start of taking Metformin in April 2014 for borderline diabetes. (My last A1C was 5.9, down from 6.6 a year ago.)
QUESTION: Is there any medical evidence that indicate that taking Metformin (500mg twice a day) can cause a decline in renal function?
QUESTION: Is there any medical evidence that indicate that taking Metformin (500mg twice a day) can cause a decline in renal function?
Brief Answer:
There is clinical evidence.
Detailed Answer:
Hi, I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.
There is clinical evidence about Metformin causing renal impairment, in cases when Metformin use is associated with dehydration, or gastroenteritis may precipitate a Metformin-induced renal function impairment.
In patients with no renal impairment or with no associated gastroenteritis or dehydration, Metformin use usually doesn't affect renal function, even it is excreted by kidneys.
Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.
There is clinical evidence.
Detailed Answer:
Hi, I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.
There is clinical evidence about Metformin causing renal impairment, in cases when Metformin use is associated with dehydration, or gastroenteritis may precipitate a Metformin-induced renal function impairment.
In patients with no renal impairment or with no associated gastroenteritis or dehydration, Metformin use usually doesn't affect renal function, even it is excreted by kidneys.
Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
Answered by
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