Using metformin to improve blood vessel function in women after gestational diabetes

Metformin for the Treatment of Microvascular Dysfunction After Gestational Diabetes

Early Phase 1 Interventional University of Iowa · NCT05917587

This study is testing if metformin can help improve blood vessel health in women who had gestational diabetes to reduce their risk of heart problems later on.

Quick facts

PhaseEarly Phase 1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 45 Years
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity of Iowa Academic / other
Locations1 site (Iowa City, Iowa)
Trial IDNCT05917587 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This investigation aims to explore how metformin can enhance microvascular function in women who have experienced gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Women with a history of GDM are at an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, and this study seeks to understand the mechanisms behind persistent vascular dysfunction that can occur postpartum. By utilizing a minimally invasive technique to assess blood vessels in the skin, the researchers will evaluate the effectiveness of metformin compared to a placebo in improving vascular health. The findings could pave the way for new strategies to enhance cardiovascular outcomes in this population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are women who are between 12 weeks and 5 years postpartum and have a history of gestational diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients with prediabetes, diabetes, or existing cardiovascular or metabolic diseases may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved cardiovascular health for women with a history of gestational diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: While the association between gestational diabetes and cardiovascular risk is established, this specific approach using metformin for vascular dysfunction is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ≥12 weeks and ≤5 years postpartum
* history of GDM or healthy pregnancy

Exclusion Criteria:

* prediabetes or diabetes (HbA1c ≥5.7%)
* current tobacco use
* cardiovascular or metabolic disease
* cardiovascular or metabolic medication
* history of hypertension during pregnancy
* current pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Iowa City, Iowa

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 Gestational Diabetesgestational diabetespostpartumvascular
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.