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Diabetes Drug Trial for Deadly Aneurysms
3 Feb
Summary
- A common diabetes drug, Metformin, is being tested for abdominal aortic aneurysms.
- The trial aims to slow or prevent aneurysm growth, avoiding risky surgery.
- Over 1,000 patients will participate in this large, international drug trial.
A significant clinical trial is underway to evaluate Metformin, a common medication for type 2 diabetes, as a potential treatment for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). AAAs are dangerous swellings of the aorta, and their rupture can be fatal.
This extensive research, funded by the British Heart Foundation (BHF), is the largest drug trial for AAA to date. It seeks to recruit 1,000 patients over two years across the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Participants with small AAAs will receive either Metformin or a placebo.
Researchers hope Metformin can prevent AAA growth by reducing inflammation in the aorta. Currently, individuals with small AAAs can only undergo regular monitoring until the condition requires surgery.
Philip Gosling, 80, was the first to join the UK arm of the trial. He stated his enthusiasm for research and its potential impact on conditions like his AAA.
If the trial proves Metformin effective, it could offer a crucial non-surgical treatment, reducing the need for high-risk surgeries and providing reassurance to affected patients.
