In recent news, conflicting studies regarding the potential link between the type 2 diabetes drug metformin and an increased risk of birth defects have emerged. While a 2022 study raised concerns about a 40% increased risk of birth defects in offspring when fathers used metformin before conception, new research published in the Annals of Internal Medicine suggests otherwise.
According to Dr. Ran Rotem from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, the recent studies provide reassurance for parents as they show no increased risk of major birth defects in children whose fathers used metformin. The research indicates that the increased risk of birth defects seen in previous studies may be more related to underlying health conditions such as diabetes and related comorbidities rather than the medication itself.
The studies, which analyzed data from nearly 400,000 babies born in Israel between 1999 and 2020, found that paternal use of metformin did not pose a risk of major birth defects when adjusted for other factors. The data also showed that maintaining a good cardiometabolic health profile is crucial for both partners.
Similarly, another study from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health focused on mothers with type 2 diabetes and their pregnancies. The research found little to no increased risk of birth defects in babies when women continued using metformin along with insulin in their first trimester compared to those who switched to insulin alone.
Overall, the studies suggest that metformin is a safe and effective treatment option for type 2 diabetes for both men and women planning to conceive. However, individual risks and benefits should be carefully considered, and additional research on glycemic control is needed. Nonetheless, these findings contribute to a clearer understanding of the potential risks associated with metformin use in pregnancy.
