[Indications and contraindications of biguanide therapy in diabetes mellitus].

In this review the actual stage of knowledge is mediated concerning the oral therapy of diabetes mellitus by biguanides. After a historical review the pharmacological data obtained by animal experiments as well as by clinical application are summarized and the effects and side-effects are derived. The problem of lactic acidosis and the controversial discussion due to the UGDP-study concerning the relation of the biguanides to the cardiovascular system are largely discussed. Concrete recommendations are given concerning the clinical practice by means of the communication of the revised indications and contraindications of the therapy with biguanides.