Real-world effectiveness of metformin-based regimens in type 2 diabetes: A retrospective observational study

Abstract

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder requiring long-term pharmacological management. Metformin remains the first-line therapy, either as monotherapy or in combination with other agents.
Objectives: To evaluate the real-world effectiveness of metformin-based regimens on glycemic control in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus over a 12-month period.
Methods: This retrospective observational study included 110 patients with T2DM. Patients were divided into two groups: metformin monotherapy (n=50) and metformin-based combination therapy (n=60). Clinical and biochemical parameters including HbA1c, fasting blood sugar (FBS), and postprandial blood sugar (PPBS) were analyzed. Statistical significance was determined using t-tests and chi-square tests, with p<0.05 considered significant.
Results: Combination therapy showed superior glycemic control compared to monotherapy. Mean HbA1c was significantly lower in the combination group (7.2 vs 7.8, p=0.02). FBS and PPBS were also significantly reduced (p<0.05). A higher proportion of patients achieved good glycemic control in the combination group (70% vs 50%, p=0.01). Gastrointestinal side effects were slightly higher with combination therapy but not statistically significant.
Conclusion: Metformin-based combination therapy provides better glycemic control than monotherapy in real-world settings. Early intensification of therapy may improve outcomes in patients with T2DM.