The effects of metformin on the capillary permeability to albumin in women patients with cyclic edema.

An experimental work has suggested the efficacy of metformin, an oral antidiabetic agent, on capillary permeability. This agent has been tested in 10 women patients with cyclic edema, 7 of them being obese. The capillary permeability to albumin studied by an isotope test derived from Landis's method was initially increased. After a mean of six-weeks of treatment the albumin retention and an index demonstrating the interstitial protein elimination through the lymph route were significantly improved. Concomitantly, the swelling feelings were reduced in 8 cases and the lower limb edema had decreased or disappeared in 8 of 9 patients who initially presented these symptoms. The effects of metformin are beneficial and have been observed to be independent of glycemic change. The results suggest a special effect of this agent on the microcirculation. Nevertheless, a controlled study is required.