Does metformin affect babies?

Understanding the Impact of Metformin on Babies
Metformin, a widely prescribed medication for managing type 2 diabetes, has garnered attention for its use during pregnancy, particularly in relation to its effects on unborn babies. As more women with diabetes or gestational diabetes are treated with this medication, understanding its implications for fetal health becomes increasingly important.
Metformin and Pregnancy
Research indicates that metformin can cross the placenta, meaning that it can circulate in the developing fetus. Studies have shown that the concentration of metformin in fetal cord blood can range from half to nearly the same concentration as in maternal plasma. This raises questions about the potential effects on fetal development and health.
While metformin is often deemed safe for use during pregnancy, particularly for managing gestational diabetes, there are nuanced considerations. Some experts caution that while the medication may benefit the mother by controlling blood sugar levels, it may not be entirely benign for the baby. For instance, a statement from Children’s Hospital Colorado suggests that “Metformin may be good for mom, but not for baby”.
Potential Effects on Babies
The long-term effects of metformin exposure in utero are still under investigation. Current studies, including those stemming from the EMPOWaR study, suggest that metformin does not have harmful effects on the placenta. However, the research is ongoing to determine whether there are any lasting impacts on children who were exposed to metformin during pregnancy.
Some studies have indicated that while metformin helps manage maternal diabetes effectively, it may be associated with certain risks for the baby, such as potential growth issues or metabolic changes. The exact nature and extent of these risks remain an area of active research.
Conclusion
In summary, while metformin is a valuable tool for managing diabetes during pregnancy, its effects on babies are complex and not fully understood. The medication crosses the placenta, and while it appears to be safe for maternal use, its implications for fetal health warrant careful consideration. Ongoing research will be crucial in clarifying the long-term effects of metformin on children exposed to it in utero, ensuring that both maternal and fetal health are prioritized in treatment decisions.

Can metformin cause birth defects?

June 26, 2024—Infants born to men or to women taking metformin, a common drug used to manage type 2 diabetes, do not appear to be at higher risk of birth defects, according to two new studies led by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

What effect does metformin have on a child?

Your child may get stomach ache, feel sick (nausea) or be sick (vomit), or get diarrhoea when they first start taking Metformin.

Does metformin slow baby growth?

A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology demonstrates that when the diabetes drug metformin is given to the mother during pregnancy, fetus growth is restricted, including a slowed maturing of the kidneys, which has been linked to a higher risk of obesity and insulin resistance in childhood …

Can metformin harm my unborn baby?

Use of metformin during pregnancy is not expected to cause any problems that would require extra monitoring of the baby. Pregnant women with diabetes are more likely to have a larger than average baby — extra monitoring of their baby’s growth will therefore be offered.

What does metformin do to a baby?

Previous studies suggest fetal exposure to metformin may increase the risk of lower birth weight and adverse metabolic outcomes in offspring, as well as a higher risk of increased body weight, obesity and metabolic dysfunction in preadolescence.

Why do doctors no longer prescribe metformin?

Why do doctors no longer recommend metformin? Doctors still often prescribe metformin to help treat T2DM. However, metformin may not be suitable for everyone with T2DM. For example, a doctor may prescribe alternative treatments, such as SGLT2 inhibitors, in people with kidney problems.

What is the youngest age for metformin?

Metformin has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for children with T2DM aged 10 years and older.

What is the infant risk of metformin?

Metformin passes into breast milk in tiny amounts and has not been linked with side effects in any breastfed babies. Metformin would not be expected to cause side effects but contact your health visitor, midwife, pharmacist or doctor as soon as possible if your baby: is not feeding as well as usual.

What is the long term damage of metformin?

Long-term side effects
Taking metformin can cause vitamin B12 deficiency if you take it for a long time. This can make you feel very tired, breathless and faint, so your doctor may check the vitamin B12 level in your blood. If your vitamin B12 levels become too low, vitamin B12 supplements will help.

Do you stop metformin once pregnant?

ANSWER. Despite the traditional response that all oral hypoglycemic agents are absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy,1-3 evidence that metformin is probably safe during the first trimester of pregnancy and beyond is accumulating.