In a nutshell
This article investigated the safety and effectiveness of sitagliptin (Januvia) in the management of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in elderly patients on insulin. The authors concluded that the addition of sitagliptin is effective and safe in all patients receiving it as add-on therapy to insulin.
Some background
In type 2 diabetes (T2D) the body does not use insulin properly. Therefore, it cannot lower blood glucose after meals. There are many treatments for T2D. However, some patients cannot control their blood glucose with oral treatments. Insulin injections are needed in these patients.
Sitagliptin is a type of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor. This is a drug that increases insulin production in the body. It helps lower blood glucose. It is effective and safe in younger patients. However, its safety and effectiveness are less known in elderly patients.
Methods & findings
The study involved 821 patients who were taking insulin. Sitagliptin was added to their treatment. Patients were divided into 3 groups based on their age. 389 were younger than 64 years. 267 had 65-74 years and 165 were 75 years or older. They were then followed for 12 months. The HbA1c (a measure of blood glucose control over 3 months), body weight, kidney function, and side effects were measured before and after 12 months of sitagliptin treatment.
HbA1c showed a significant decrease after starting sitagliptin in all age groups. Body weight did not change significantly in any group. Kidney function decreased in all groups after 12 months. There were no significant differences between the groups in the degree of side effects. These included low blood glucose, constipation, and other digestive symptoms.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that adding sitagliptin to insulin therapy achieves similar efficacy and safety outcomes at 12 months in both elderly and non-elderly patients with T2D.
The fine print
This study looked back at medical records. Information is not always complete in these types of studies. This might influence the results.
Published By :
Journal of clinical medicine research
Date :
May 01, 2019
