Queensland Research Centre for Peripheral Vascular Disease Get Involved MERIT

QRC-PVD Clinical Trial - Metformin for Treating Peripheral Artery Disease-Related Walking Impairment (MERIT)

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a blockage and narrowing of arteries which leads to poor circulation in the legs. This reduces the ability of patients to undertake walking ability which reduces quality of life. There are no current effective treatments to manage PAD other than surgery. Surgery is the most common way to improve circulation however it is expensive and can have complications.

A number of research studies suggest a drug called Metformin may improve patients' physical activity. The drug is approved by the Australian Therapeutics Goods Administration and is well tolerated and safe for participants who do not have diabetes. Research suggests that Metformin may:

  • Encourage new blood vessels to form in the legs
  • Improve muscle function, and
  • Improve pain tolerance.

Recruitment Status

Currently recruiting

Sites Recruiting

Sites - The Townsville Hospital, Queensland; Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Queensland

Ethics Approval

Human Research Ethics Approval HERC/18/QTHS/159

Participants will be given medications to take however, half of the participants will be taking the real medication (metformin) and half will be taking a dummy medication (placebo). Neither you nor the researchers will know which one you’re taking. The aim of the study will be to see whether there is a change in walking distance after six months of taking the medication.

Taking part in this study will involve completing questionnaires, a physical assessment including physical tests, as well as blood sampling. There will be no costs associated with your participation in the research and this is not a paid research activity.

Initial visit

Health check-up:

  • 6 minute walking test
  • Blood pressure test of your legs
  • Activity monitor fitted
  • Blood test and collection

1-2 hours

Second visitRemoval of activity monitor and questionnaires. Medication is dispensed. Start taking medication. 1-2 hours
Week 1Phone call with research team10-15 minutes
Week 2Phone call with research team10-15 minutes
Week 3Phone call with research team10-15 minutes
Week 4Phone call with research team10-15 minutes
Week 5Phone call with research team10-15 minutes
Week 6Phone call with research team10-15 minutes
Week 10Phone call with research team10-15 minutes
Week 20Phone call with research team10-15 minutes
Week 30

Health check-up:

  • 6 minute walking test
  • Blood pressure test of your legs
  • Activity monitor fitted
  • Bood test and collection

1-2 hours

Week 31

Removal of activity monitor and questionnaires. Medication is ceased.

1-2 hours

Participant Information Flyer and Consent Forms

Register your interest in participating in this study.