Using metformin to treat kidney injury caused by sepsis

A Randomized Clinical Trial of the Safety and FeasibiLity of Metformin as a Treatment for sepsis induced AKI (LiMiT AKI)

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11162319

This study is looking at whether metformin, a medicine usually used for type 2 diabetes, can help people with kidney problems caused by sepsis, and it aims to see if it's safe and effective for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11162319 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of metformin, a medication commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes, as a potential treatment for acute kidney injury (AKI) that occurs due to sepsis. The study aims to determine the safety and feasibility of metformin in patients suffering from sepsis-induced AKI. By activating a protein that helps protect kidney function, the researchers hope to improve recovery outcomes for these patients. Participants will be monitored closely to assess the effects of metformin on kidney health and overall survival.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are hospitalized with sepsis and experiencing acute kidney injury.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have sepsis or acute kidney injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option that improves kidney recovery and survival rates for patients with sepsis-induced AKI.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that activating the AMPK pathway can protect against kidney injury, suggesting that this approach may be promising.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions acute kidney injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.