Insulin plus a sulfonylurea agent for treating type 2 diabetes

Article Abstract:

A review of the medical literature is presented concerning the effectiveness of sulfonylurea drug therapy for treating type 2 (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes. Sulfonylurea agents are given in combination with insulin. They enhance the ability of beta cells in the pancreas (the source of insulin) to secrete insulin and also increase the ability of cells to utilize the available insulin in sugar (glucose) metabolism. Research evidence suggests that patients who receive insulin plus sulfonylurea agents have better control over their glucose levels. Results of this literature review indicate, however, that the sulfonylurea drugs only slightly improve control, and do not ensure that normal glucose levels are maintained. One goal of combined drug therapy is to reduce the required dose of insulin; some studies have indicated that excess insulin in the blood may increase the risk for atherosclerosis (deposition of fatty plaque on the walls of blood vessels). However, when sulfonylurea drugs are given, levels of circulating insulin are reduced very little. Overall, type 2 diabetics will derive more benefits from higher insulin doses and from weight loss (if they are obese) than from combined therapy with insulin and sulfonylurea drugs. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Sulfonylurea compounds, Sulfonylureas

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United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study 24: A 6-year, randomized, controlled trial comparing sulfonylurea, insulin, and metformin therapy in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes that could not be controlled with diet therapy

Article Abstract:

Oral hypoglycemic drugs such as metformin may be better than insulin in treating people with type 2, or adult-onset, diabetes who do not respond to dietary changes. Researchers randomly assigned 458 people with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes to take insulin or oral hypoglycemic drugs. None had been successful in controlling the disease with diet. Either treatment controlled blood sugar sufficiently, but those taking insulin gained more weight and had more episodes of hypoglycemia. Metformin in particular caused the least weight gain and the fewest hypoglycemic episodes.

Hypoglycemic agents

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Effects of Metformin in Patients with Poorly Controlled, Insulin-Treated Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Article Abstract:

Patients who have poorly controlled type 2 diabetes may benefit from the addition of metformin to their insulin therapy. A group of 43 patients with type 2 diabetes which was not under control was divided at random into two groups, one which received metformin in addition to insulin for 24 weeks, and one which did not. The group which received the metformin improved they control of blood sugar by 10% while using 29% less insulin, and without any significant weight gain. Metformin is an effective adjunct to insulin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Statistical Data Included, Metformin

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