An Analytical Study Of Serum Cyanocobalamin Levels In Diabetic Patients On Metformin Therapy For More Than 6 Months

Abstract

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and hyperglycemia. Metformin, a common first-line treatment for T2DM, is associated with decreased serum vitamin B12 levels, potentially leading to deficiency and associated neurological and hematological complications. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of serum cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) deficiency in T2DM patients on metformin therapy for over six months and identify associated risk factors. Methodology: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth, Karad, Maharashtra, over 18 months. Seventy T2DM patients on metformin for more than six months were included, excluding those with purely vegetarian diets, chronic alcoholism, or other significant comorbidities. Data collection involved fasting and postprandial blood sugar levels, HbA1c, and serum cyanocobalamin levels. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with chi-square and t-tests applied for association and comparison analyses. Results: The study found that 27.14% of the patients had deficient serum cyanocobalamin levels (<200 pg/mL). A significant association was observed between longer duration of metformin therapy and lower cyanocobalamin levels (p = 0.009), and higher daily doses of metformin correlated with increased deficiency (p = 0.017). Clinical symptoms like fatigue, tingling sensations, and gastrointestinal disturbances were more prevalent in patients with cyanocobalamin deficiency (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The findings highlight a notable prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency among T2DM patients on metformin, particularly with prolonged and higher dose use. Regular monitoring of cyanocobalamin levels is crucial to prevent and manage deficiency-related complications in this population.
Categories: Nutrition, Geriatrics, Internal Medicine