Actions of metformin and statins on lipid and glucose metabolism and possible benefit of combination therapy

Abstract Patients with diabetes type 2 have an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and commonly use combination therapy consisting of the anti-diabetic drug metformin and a cholesterol-lowering statin. However, both drugs act on glucose and lipid metabolism which could lead to adverse effects...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Mariël F. van Stee, Albert A. de Graaf, Albert K. Groen
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2018-06-01
Series:Cardiovascular Diabetology
Subjects:
Online Access:http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12933-018-0738-4
Description
Summary:Abstract Patients with diabetes type 2 have an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and commonly use combination therapy consisting of the anti-diabetic drug metformin and a cholesterol-lowering statin. However, both drugs act on glucose and lipid metabolism which could lead to adverse effects when used in combination as compared to monotherapy. In this review, the proposed molecular mechanisms of action of statin and metformin therapy in patients with diabetes and dyslipidemia are critically assessed, and a hypothesis for mechanisms underlying interactions between these drugs in combination therapy is developed.
ISSN:1475-2840