Protective Effect of Metformin on Venous Thrombosis in Diabetic Patients: Findings From a Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Despite the effects of metformin on cardiovascular diseases, there is limited evidence supporting its beneficial effects on venous thrombosis, and such evidence is not qualitatively synthesized both from observational and intervention studies, thereby limiting our understanding of the role of metformin in preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE). Thus, we carried out a systematic review of the epidemiological studies assessing the role of metformin in preventing VTE among diabetic patients. Methods: A systematic search of three main electronic databases including Embase, PubMed, and EBSCO was undertaken in 2021. Any study conducted between 2000 and 2021 that addressed the role of metformin in preventing venous thrombosis in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus was considered eligible. Results: Following a comprehensive review of the research articles based on the eligibility criteria, six articles were incorporated into the review. The findings of the review demonstrate that metformin was found to be associated with 22% to 58% risk reduction for venous thrombosis among diabetic patients. However, due to the observational studies included in the meta-analysis, the protective effect may not be independent of other risk factors or other variables. Conclusion: Overall, the findings showed a beneficial effect of metformin against venous thrombosis, meaning that metformin may play a vital role in preventing deep venous thrombosis among patients diagnosed diabetes mellitus. However, future studies are warranted before making any conclusions about the efficacy of metformin against venous thrombosis in diabetic patients. J Endocrinol Metab. 2022;12(6):161-167 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jem848