Final answer:
Metformin is contraindicated for patients with a GFR of <30 mL/min/1.73 m² and for those already on metformin, it is recommended to stop if GFR falls below 30 mL/min and reassess if it is below 45 mL/min. The correct answer is a. Less than 30 mL/min; Less than 45 mL/min.
Step-by-step explanation:
The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a measure of kidney function and helps to stage chronic kidney disease (CKD). According to recent guidelines, metformin, a medication commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, is contraindicated in patients with a GFR of <30 mL/min/1.73 m². This is because reduced kidney function can lead to the accumulation of metformin in the body, increasing the risk of a rare but serious complication called lactic acidosis.
For patients who are not already on metformin, they should not start metformin if their GFR is <30 mL/min. For those already taking metformin, it is recommended to assess the benefits and risks of continuing treatment if their GFR falls below 45 mL/min, and it should be stopped if their GFR is below 30 mL/min.
Therefore, based on the choices provided, the correct answer is a. Less than 30 mL/min; Less than 45 mL/min.