Metformin for treating peripheral artery disease-related walking impairment

This trial is for people with peripheral artery disease (PAD) — a condition where the arteries supplying blood to the legs become narrowed or blocked, causing painful cramping or tightening in the legs during walking (called intermittent claudication). PAD affects quality of life significantly, as even short walks can become painful. This study tests whether metformin — a medication widely used for type 2 diabetes — can improve walking ability in people with PAD who do not have diabetes. Researchers believe metformin may improve blood vessel function and help grow new small blood vessels in the legs. Participants are randomly assigned to take either 1500mg of metformin per day or a placebo for 6 months. Walking ability is tested with a six-minute walk test. Secondary outcomes include physical activity levels, quality of life, and blood markers of blood vessel health. You may be eligible if you are aged 40 or older, have been diagnosed with PAD by a vascular specialist, experience walking limitations due to leg cramps (claudication), do not have diabetes, and do not have serious kidney or heart problems. People with severe PAD (rest pain or gangrene), previous major leg amputation, or who are currently in an exercise program for PAD are not eligible.