[Metformin-associated lactic acidosis can be treated with continuous renal replacement therapy].
Metformin is widely used to treat diabetes. In rare cases, metformin may cause lactic acidosis, especially when administered during periods of dehydration. We present two cases of metformin-associated lactic acidosis (MALA). Both patients presented with metabolic acidosis, hypotension, renal failure and gastrointestinal symptoms. The use of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) had a significant effect. Lactate and metformin can be removed effectively by haemofiltration. CRRT is widely available and a well-known treatment at intensive care units. MALA shows a mortality rate of about 30%.
Anæstesiologisk Afdeling, Kolding Sygehus, Skovvangen 2-8, 6000 Kolding, Denmark. helene_j@yahoo.com
Helene
H
Korvenius Jørgensen
Jane Stab
JS
Nielsen
Torben
T
Gilsaa
D000140:Acidosis, Lactic / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000628:therapy*; D000075202:Contraindications; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D006440:Hemofiltration / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008687:Metformin / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008875:Middle Aged; D017582:Renal Replacement Therapy
D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents; D008687:Metformin