Metformin has a protective effect against oxidative stress in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2

Abstract Diabetes mellitus (DM) and arterial hypertension are considered serious public health problems. Several studies have shown that oxidative stress is usually related to the onset of DM and hypertension and their complications. Moreover, levels of some minerals are closely related to the pathophysiology of these diseases. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the biochemical markers, minerals and redox profile levels in the serum of patients with type 2 DM and hypertension, as well as to test the effect of metformin on the viability and redox profile of cells. Patients with type 2 DM and hypertension + type 2 DM had higher levels of fasting glucose and triglycerides. There were no statistically significant differences for mineral levels. The MPO activity was reduced in the DM type 2 and Hypertension + DM type 2 groups and in cells. On the other hand, PSH and vitamin C levels were increased. The metformin has a protective effect in patients with DM type 2 against oxidative stress by reducing MPO activity and improving PSH and vitamin C antioxidant defenders. Further studies are needed to assess the biochemical mechanisms of metformin and how it can be used in a pharmacological therapeutic perspective against oxidative damage.