Pregnancy and Fetal Outcomes Following Metformin Use in Diabetic Rats

The female reproductive system is responsible for pregnancy and supports development of the fetus. The incidence of diabetes mellitus (DM) is increasing rapidly worldwide (Wild et al., 2000). Metformin is an oral antidiabetic drug and it seems to have properties that could be beneficial in managing reproductive complications of DM. The present study determined the effect of metformin on pregnancy and fetal outcomes in Alloxan-induced diabetic female Sprague-Dawley rats. Eighty (80) pregnant rats were divided into four groups (20 rats per group). Implantation and pregnancy were first ascertained, and fetal outcome was observed and recorded. The measurement of plasma levels of βhCG, estradiol, progesterone, corticosterone and C-reactive peptide (CRP); were carried out on days 7, 14, 19 and at term. Results were analyzed using ANOVA and Newman Keuls post hoc test with statistical significance taken at p<0.05. Results showed a significant (p<0.05) increase in plasma level of progesterone and estradiol with a significant reduction in CRP levels in the treated groups. The number of fetuses and average litter size was also significantly reduced (p<0.05) in the untreated diabetic rats. No physical abnormalities were observed in litters from all the experimental groups. In conclusion, metformin administration during pregnancy confers maternal and fetal protective effects.