Using Metformin to Extend Pregnancy in Women with Preterm Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia Intervention 4 - A Triple Blind Phase III Randomised Controlled Trial Assessing Metformin to Prolong Gestation in Preterm Preeclampsia

Phase 3 Interventional Sahlgrenska University Hospital · NCT06033131

This study is testing if the diabetes drug metformin can help women with preterm preeclampsia have longer pregnancies and healthier babies.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment294 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexFemale
SponsorSahlgrenska University Hospital Academic / other
Locations17 sites (Helsinki and 16 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06033131 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the use of metformin, a diabetes medication, to prolong gestation in women diagnosed with preterm preeclampsia. The study is a multi-center, double-blind, randomized controlled trial conducted in Sweden, aiming to assess whether metformin can delay delivery, improve neonatal outcomes, and increase birth weight. Participants will receive either metformin extended release or a placebo, with outcomes measured in terms of gestational prolongation and neonatal health metrics. The trial builds on previous findings that suggest metformin may modify the disease's progression.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are pregnant women aged 18 and older, diagnosed with preeclampsia between 22 and 33 weeks of gestation, and carrying a singleton fetus.

Not a fit: Patients with type 1 diabetes, contraindications to metformin, or those requiring immediate delivery due to severe preeclampsia will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve outcomes for mothers and their babies by prolonging pregnancy and reducing neonatal complications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies, such as the Preeclampsia Intervention 2 trial, have shown promising results with metformin in delaying delivery in early preterm preeclampsia, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* A diagnosis of preeclampsia (defined as hypertension in combination with significant proteinuria (albumin/creatinine ratio \>8 mg/mmol, protein/creatinine ratio\>30 mg/mmol or \>2+ protein on a urinary dipstick) has been made by the attending clinician
* The managing clinicians have made the assessment to proceed with expectant management.
* The subject has given written consent to participate in the study.
* The woman must be 18 years of age or older
* The gestational age is between 22+0 weeks to 33+6 weeks with a viable fetus
* The woman carries a singleton pregnancy

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindications to treatment with metformin as outlined in SmPC
* Contraindications for expectant management of preeclampsia such as an immediate indication for delivery according to SFOG guidelines for preeclampsia (https://www.sfog.se/media/338533/pe-riktlinje-230214.pdf).
* Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
* Current use of metformin
* Known or suspected allergies against metformin
* Reluctance or language difficulties that result in difficulty understanding the meaning of study participation
* Unable to understand the informed consent process
* Previous participation in the study
* Established fetal compromise that necessitates imminent delivery (including planned delivery after 48 hours of corticosteroid treatment). This will be decided by the clinical team before expectant management is offered to the patient.
* Suspicion of a major known fetal anomaly or malformation.
* Renal disease or dysfunction, suggested by a creatinine level greater than or equal to 125 µmol/L or rapidly declining renal function
* Known acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, including diabetic ketoacidosis
* Not suitable for inclusion by the opinion of the investigator

Where this trial is running

Helsinki and 16 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions PreeclampsiaMetforminPreterm birthProlongationBirth weightLength of stay in neonatal care
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.