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Metformin use in hidradenitis suppurativa
Lorraine Jennings1, Roisin Hambly1,2,3, Rosalind Hughes1
1The Charles Centre, Department of Dermatology, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
The Journal of Dermatological Treatment
|March 21, 2019
Summary
Metformin is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic inflammatory disease. This inexpensive medication showed clinical response in 68% of patients, offering a viable option for HS management.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory condition linked to metabolic syndrome, obesity, and insulin resistance.
- Metformin, an oral hypoglycemic agent, may help prevent diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
- Previous reports suggest metformin efficacy in HS treatment and management of associated comorbidities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the utilization, effectiveness, and tolerability of metformin in patients with HS.
- To evaluate metformin's role in managing HS and its related metabolic complications.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective chart review was conducted over 12 months at a specialist Dermatology HS clinic.
- Patients treated with metformin during the study period were included in the analysis.
- Data on patient demographics, metformin dosage, duration, response, and side effects were collected.
Main Results:
- Fifty-three HS patients (85% female, mean age 37 years, mean weight 102 kg) received metformin.
- Mean metformin duration was 11.3 months at 1.5 g/day; 6- and 12-month drug survival rates were 61% and 39%.
- 68% experienced subjective clinical response, with 19% achieving quiescent disease on metformin monotherapy; 11% reported gastrointestinal side effects.
Conclusions:
- Metformin is an effective, well-tolerated, and inexpensive treatment for HS.
- It represents a viable therapeutic option for managing HS and its associated comorbidities.
- Metformin's efficacy in HS is not predicted by the presence of insulin resistance.
