Metformin in the treatment of hyperglycemia during pregnancy and periconception: guideline-informed expert recommendations from seven countries/states in the Asia-Pacific region.

Abstract

Hyperglycemia in pregnancy (HIP) poses significant risks to maternal and fetal health yet remains underreported, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. This public health challenge includes gestational diabetes mellitus, pre-existing diabetes, and diabetes diagnosed during pregnancy, with regional prevalence rates as high as 28%. Left untreated, HIP can lead to adverse maternal outcomes such as preeclampsia and excessive gestational weight gain, as well as neonatal complications, including macrosomia and neonatal hypoglycemia. International and regional guidelines emphasize early detection and tailored interventions when addressing unmet medical needs in HIP management. Screening protocols vary, with a one-step oral glucose tolerance test increasingly favored for its diagnostic accuracy. Metformin, recognized for its favorable safety profile, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness, has emerged as a preferred first-line treatment alongside lifestyle modifications. Recent updates to metformin's regulatory labeling highlight its safe use during pregnancy, with evidence demonstrating benefits such as reduced maternal weight gain and neonatal complications. This expert recommendation from the Asia-Pacific region focus on the use of metformin during pregnancy and the periconceptional period. Recommendations advocate for routine screening, optimal glycemic control, and structured postpartum care to mitigate HIP's long-term health impacts. Integrating metformin into management strategies enhances patient satisfaction, accessibility, and overall outcomes, offering a practical solution to improve maternal and neonatal health in diverse healthcare settings.