Metformin Embonate

A new clinical trial is exploring the potential of Metformin Embonate, a medication typically used for diabetes management, in treating small abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). This study aims to determine if daily doses of Metformin can slow the growth rate of AAAs in patients without diabetes, potentially offering a new treatment option for this cardiovascular condition.

Table of Contents

What is Metformin Embonate?

Metformin Embonate, also known as Metformin hemiembonate or Metformin pamoate, is a medication currently being studied for its potential to slow the growth of small abdominal aortic aneurysms[1]. It’s important to note that this drug is still in the research phase and is not yet approved for general use in treating aneurysms.

Metformin is a well-known medication commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes. However, in this study, researchers are exploring its potential benefits for people without diabetes who have a specific heart condition.

Target Condition: Small Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

The condition being studied is called a small abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a bulge or swelling in the main blood vessel (aorta) that runs from your heart through your abdomen. It’s considered “small” when it measures:

  • 30-49 mm in diameter for men
  • 30-44 mm in diameter for women

These small aneurysms are typically monitored through a process called active surveillance, meaning they’re regularly checked to see if they’re growing[1].

Research Objectives

The main goal of this research is to determine if Metformin Embonate can slow down the growth of small abdominal aortic aneurysms in people who don’t have diabetes. Specifically, the study aims to:

  1. Investigate if taking 2 grams of metformin daily for 60 months (5 years) can reduce the yearly growth rate of small AAAs[1].
  2. Check if this dosage of metformin is safe and tolerable for patients.
  3. Assess how the treatment affects patients’ quality of life.
  4. Examine if metformin influences biological markers (biomarkers) associated with aortic aneurysms.
  5. Evaluate if this could be a cost-effective treatment option for patients with small AAAs[1].

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in this study, patients must meet certain criteria. Here are some key points:

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Both men and women can participate
  • Must have a documented AAA measuring 30-49 mm for men or 30-44 mm for women
  • No history of diabetes and a fasting blood glucose level less than 7.0 mmol/L
  • Must provide written informed consent[1]

Exclusion Criteria:

  • History of diabetes
  • Current or previous use of metformin
  • Certain kidney, liver, or heart conditions that could make metformin use unsafe
  • Pregnancy or unwillingness to use effective contraception during the study (for women who can become pregnant)
  • Participation in other clinical trials within 30 days before this study[1]

Study Endpoints

The researchers will measure the success of the treatment in several ways:

  1. Primary Endpoint: The main measure will be the change in AAA diameter after 24 and 60 months of treatment, compared to the start of the study. This will be measured using computed tomography (CT) imaging[1].
  2. Secondary Endpoints: These include:
    • Changes in AAA volume (measured by CT)
    • Changes in AAA diameter (measured by ultrasound)
    • Improvements in health-related quality of life
    • Cost-effectiveness of the treatment in reducing the need for AAA surgery
    • Safety assessments, including monitoring for side effects[1]

Dosage and Administration

In this study, participants will receive:

  • A daily dose of 2 grams (2000 mg) of Metformin Embonate
  • The medication will be taken orally (by mouth)
  • The treatment period is planned for 60 months (5 years)[1]

Safety Considerations

Patient safety is a crucial aspect of this study. The researchers will be closely monitoring for any side effects or unexpected reactions. Some important safety points include:

  • A safety analysis will be conducted at 24 months to ensure the treatment is safe and effective.
  • Patients with certain health conditions that could increase the risk of side effects from metformin are not eligible for the study.
  • The study will monitor for known side effects of metformin as well as any unexpected effects on the AAA[1].

It’s important to remember that this is a research study, and Metformin Embonate is not yet approved for treating abdominal aortic aneurysms. If you have concerns about an AAA or are interested in this research, please consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

Aspect Details
Study Title Metformin for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Inhibition (MAAAGI)
Main Objective Investigate if 2g metformin daily reduces growth rate of small abdominal aortic aneurysms
Study Duration 60 months (5 years) with interim analysis at 24 months
Participant Criteria Men and women with small AAA, no diabetes history, normal fasting glucose
Primary Endpoint Change in AAA diameter measured by CT imaging
Secondary Endpoints AAA volume changes, quality of life, cost-effectiveness, safety
Drug Information Metformin Embonate, 2000mg daily, oral administration

Ongoing Clinical Trials on Metformin Embonate

  • Study on the Use of Metformin in Addition to Standard Treatment for Patients with Glioblastoma

    Recruiting

    2 1 1 1
    Investigated diseases:
    Investigated drugs:
    Italy
  • Study on Aspirin and Metformin for Patients with Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer

    Recruiting

    4 1 1 1
    Italy
  • Study on the Effects of Metformin in Patients with Cirrhosis and Portal Hypertension Already Treated with Carvedilol

    Recruiting

    2 1 1
    Investigated drugs:
    France
  • Study on Metformin Embonate to Slow Growth of Small Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms in Patients Without Diabetes

    Recruiting

    2 1 1 1
    Investigated diseases:
    Investigated drugs:
    Denmark The Netherlands Sweden
  • Study on the Effectiveness and Safety of Metformin and Methyl Aminolevulinate in Daylight Therapy for Actinic Keratosis Patients

    Not yet recruiting

    2 1 1
    Investigated diseases:
    Investigated drugs:
    Spain
  • A study testing cagrilintide and semaglutide compared to placebo in people with type 2 diabetes taking basal insulin with or without metformin

    Not recruiting

    3 1 1
    Slovakia
  • Study of oral and injectable NNC0487-0111 (Amycretin) to find the best dose for blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes taking metformin with or without SGLT2 inhibitor

    Not recruiting

    2 1 1
    Bulgaria Croatia Germany Greece Hungary Poland +3
  • Study of Metformin Treatment to Maintain Type 2 Diabetes Remission in Patients After Bariatric Surgery

    Not recruiting

    3 1 1 1
    Investigated drugs:
    France

Glossary

  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): A bulge or swelling in the main blood vessel (aorta) that runs from the heart through the abdomen. If it grows too large, it can rupture and cause life-threatening bleeding.
  • Metformin Embonate: A form of the diabetes medication Metformin, being studied for its potential to slow the growth of abdominal aortic aneurysms.
  • Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): A test used to check how well the kidneys are working by estimating how much blood passes through the glomeruli (tiny filters in the kidneys) each minute.
  • Computed Tomography (CT): An imaging technique that uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the inside of the body, used in this study to measure the size of aneurysms.
  • Biomarkers: Measurable substances in the body that can indicate the presence or progress of a condition or disease.
  • Perivascular Adipose Tissue: Fat tissue surrounding blood vessels, which may play a role in vascular health and disease.

References

  1. http://clinicaltrials.eu/trial/study-on-metformin-embonate-to-slow-growth-of-small-abdominal-aortic-aneurysms-in-patients-without-diabetes/