Influence of metformin treatment on glucose tolerance induced by corticosteroid administration in rats Wistar - DOI: 10.4025/actascihealthsci.v28i2.1098

Abstract

This work evaluated the effect of the corticosteroid administration on glucose intolerance state induced by dexamethasone (0.1 mg kg^-1, s.c., 4 days). The experimental model was characterized through blood and urine glucose levels determination, 24 hour urinary volume, food and water intake. The rats were treated with chlorpropamide (100 mg kg^-1), metformin (300 mg kg^-1) or pioglitazone (10 mg kg^-1) during 4 days. The effect of adrenalectomy or the drugs treatment effectiveness on hyperglycemia state were evaluated during intravenous GTT. Metformin treatment restored the altered hyperglycemia observed in this experimental model. Results suggest that dexamethasone promotes a hyperglycemia state through a synergic effect on endogenous corticosteroids, and that metformin treatment restores these altered responses. Indeed, the dexamethasone induced insulin resistance in humans, promoting hyperglycemia, which should be avoid by the prophylactic administration of metformin