Drugs for diabetes: part 7 insulin

Barwall, N. D., McKay, G. A. and Fisher, M. (2011) Drugs for diabetes: part 7 insulin. British Journal of Cardiology, 18(5/6), pp. 224-228. (doi: 10.5837/bjc.2011.003)

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Abstract

Insulin remains an important treatment for patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Insulin is given to patients with type 1 diabetes as a form of hormone replacement therapy to replace the loss of endogenous insulin secretion. Intensive insulin treatment with either continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion or basal–bolus therapy reduces diabetic complications, including macrovascular complications. For patients with type 2 diabetes, insulin therapy is given to try and overcome the combination of insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction that are the pathological hallmarks of the disease. There are concerns that weight gain and hypoglycaemia, which are common side-effects of intensive insulin therapy, may reduce or negate direct benefits of controlling hyperglycaemia on macrovascular outcomes. The best insulin regimen for patients with type 2 diabetes is not clear, and treatment should aim to minimise weight gain and the occurrence of hypoglycaemia.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:McKay, Dr Gerard
Authors: Barwall, N. D., McKay, G. A., and Fisher, M.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing
Journal Name:British Journal of Cardiology
Journal Abbr.:Br J Cardiol
Publisher:MediNews Limited
ISSN:0969-6113
ISSN (Online):1753-4313

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