Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Metformin is considered as the main drug of choice for the patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus. GI intolerance is a most common side effect seen in patients with long-term metformin therapy. Vitamin B12 deciency can be a consequence of metformin therapy due to malabsorption. In this study we sought to estimate vitamin B12 levels in patients who were on metformin therapy. MATERIALAND METHODS: The study is a case control study. 30 patients were on Metformin for more than one year (CASES) and the other 30 were on other anti-diabetic drugs and/or insulin for more than one year (CONTROLS). Serum vitamin B12 levels were measured by radioimmunoassay method. RESULT:In regard to vitamin B12 levels, this study clearly shows a decrease associated with Metformin therapy. CONCLUSION: Type 2 diabetics on long term Metformin therapy were found to have signicantly low levels of Vitamin B12 when compared to type 2 diabetics on other anti-diabetic drugs. Hence Vitamin B12 supplementation should be considered in patients with long term metformin therapy.
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