Comparison of retinopathy and blood biochemistry indicators in type 2 diabetic patients using metformin and canagliflozin: An observational cohort study

The present study was conducted to explore and compare retinopathy and some effective indicators of blood biochemistry in diabetic patients treated with metformin and canagliflozin.

The present observational cohort study was conducted in 2021–2022. The research populations were divided into two groups receiving canagliflozin or metformin. Biochemical indices and degree of retinopathy were measured at the beginning of administration, then 9 and 18 months later. Analysis was done in SPSS via the independent-samples T-test and repeated measures analysis of variance.

As the present findings showed, the HbA1c index in both groups decreased over time. For HCT in both groups, no significant difference was found. The highest percentage of changes was that of BUN. The Cr level gradually increased in both groups. No significant change was observed in SGOT in the metformin group though it fluctuated in the canagliflozin group. Meanwhile, in SGPT condition, it was the opposite. Also, there is no change in the degree of retinopathy in both groups.

Although metformin and canagliflozin both reduce the HbA1c level, they can cause complications especially if these drugs are not used at the right time and the right dose.