Metformin in tuberculosis: beyond control of hyperglycemia

AbstractTwo global epidemics, diabetes mellitus (DM) and tuberculosis (TB), have converged making their control even more challenging. We herein have reviewed metformin ’s (MTF) effect on patients with active and latent TB, as well as discussed its newly discovered biological mechanisms in mycobacteria. Mounting evidence suggests that MTF provides better outcomes in TB patients, especially those with DM. The mechanisms by which MTF produces its benefits are multi ple. Though metformin’s potential has been proven in patients with DM, larger and more thorough clinical trials, in DM and non-DM-TB patients, need to be conducted. MTF could be added to the arsenal of anti-TB drugs, aiding in the goal of TB eradication worldwide.
Source: Infection - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research