Introduction
Common dosage forms of metformin include tablets and capsules. Under normal circumstances, the reasons why metformin should not be used during contrast-enhanced CT scans include increased renal burden, drug interactions, risk of acute tubular necrosis, risk of lactic acidosis, and reduced accuracy of the examination. During a contrast-enhanced CT scan, iodinated contrast agents need to be injected.
Common formulations of metformin include tablets and capsules. Generally, patients taking metformin should not undergo contrast-enhanced CT scans due to reasons including increased renal burden, drug interactions, risk of acute tubular necrosis, risk of lactic acidosis, and compromised accuracy of the examination. A detailed explanation is as follows:
1. **Increased Renal Burden**
During a contrast-enhanced CT scan, iodinated contrast agents are injected intravenously, and these agents are primarily excreted through the kidneys. Taking metformin concurrently with contrast administration may increase the burden on the kidneys and elevate the risk of kidney damage.
2. **Drug Interactions**
Components of the contrast agent may interact with metformin within the body. This interaction could interfere with the normal metabolism and excretion of metformin, prolonging its retention in the body and increasing the risk of adverse drug reactions.
3. **Risk of Acute Tubular Necrosis**
The interaction between the contrast agent and metformin within the kidneys may lead to acute tubular necrosis, a serious form of kidney injury that can result in severe consequences such as renal failure.
4. **Risk of Lactic Acidosis**
Prolonged retention of metformin in the body may trigger lactic acidosis, which can elevate blood lactate levels beyond the liver's capacity to process it, potentially leading to organ dysfunction.
5. **Compromised Diagnostic Accuracy**
Retention of metformin in the body may interfere with the results of contrast-enhanced CT scans. Since metformin may impair renal excretion function, the distribution and metabolism of the contrast agent may be altered, affecting the physician's ability to accurately interpret the findings.
In daily life, it is important to maintain a controlled diet, engage in regular physical activity, and monitor blood glucose levels regularly to maintain good glycemic control.
