Insulin Use Research Articles

Effect of dapagliflozin in patients with diabetes and heart failure with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction according to background glucose-lowering therapy: A pre-specified analysis of the DELIVER trial.

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and heart failure (HF) frequently coexist, but whether clinical outcomes and treatment effects of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) vary in relation to background glucose-lowering therapy (GLT) in this population is uncertain. DELIVER randomized patients with HF and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) >40% to dapagliflozin or placebo. The primary outcome was a composite of worsening HF (HF hospitalization or urgent HF visit) or cardiovascular death. In this pre-specified analysis of participants with T2D, treatment effects were assessed by number and class of background GLT(s). Of 3150 participants with T2D at baseline, 22.9% were on no GLT, 36.5% were treated with 1 GLT, and 40.6% with ≥2 GLTs. During follow-up (median: 2.3 years), treatment benefits of dapagliflozin (vs. placebo) on the primary outcome were consistent irrespective of the number of background GLTs (0 GLTs: hazard ratio [HR] 0.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.50-1.00; 1 GLT: HR 1.04, 95% CI 0.80-1.34; ≥2 GLTs: HR 0.71, 95% CI 0.56-0.90; pinteraction = 0.59). Similar findings were observed among participants with (HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.59-0.92) and without background metformin use (HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.72-1.11; pinteraction = 0.22) and in participants with (HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.69-1.16) and without background insulin use (HR 0.78, 95% CI 0.65-0.95; pinteraction = 0.45). Dapagliflozin was well-tolerated irrespective of the number of background GLTs. Dapagliflozin safely and consistently improved clinical outcomes among individuals with T2D and HF with LVEF >40% irrespective of the number and class of background GLTs, and the benefits were not influenced by concomitant metformin or insulin use. These data bolster contemporary guidelines supporting first-line SGLT2i among individuals with T2D and HF, irrespective of background GLT.

Prevalence and associated factors of proliferative diabetic retinopathy among adult diabetic patients in Northwest Ethiopia, 2023: A cross-sectional multicenter study.

Proliferative diabetic retinopathy is one of the advanced complications of diabetic retinopathy. If left untreated, almost all eyes could lose a significant portion of their vision within four months. There is limited evidence regarding the magnitude of proliferative diabetic retinopathy and associated factors in the study setting and also in Ethiopia. To determine the magnitude and associated factors of proliferative diabetic retinopathy among adult diabetic patients attending Specialized Comprehensive Hospital-Diabetic Care Clinics in Northwest Ethiopia, 2023. A multicenter, hospital-based, cross-sectional study was conducted on 1219 adult diabetic patients selected by systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected through an in-person interview and physical examination. The Statistical Package for Social Science Version 20 was used to analyze the data. Logistic regression methods were used to test the association between predisposing factors and proliferative diabetic retinopathy. The adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used to determine the strength of association. The prevalence of proliferative diabetic retinopathy was 3.1% (95% CI: 2.10%-4.10%). Hypertension (AOR = 4.35 (95% CI: 1.87-10.12)), peripheral neuropathy (AOR = 3.87 (95% CI: 1.57-9.54)), nephropathy (AOR = 2.58 (95% CI: 1.13-5.87)), ≥10 years duration of diabetes mellitus (AOR = 5.30 (95% CI: 2.32-12.14)), insulin use (AOR = 3.07 (95% CI: 1.08-8.68)), and poor adherence to diabetes mellitus medications (AOR = 3.77 (95% CI: 1.64-8.64)) were confirmed to have statistically significant association with proliferative diabetic retinopathy. The prevalence of proliferative diabetic retinopathy among adult diabetic patients in the diabetes clinic was higher than the global study. Hypertension, peripheral neuropathy, nephropathy, ≥10 year's duration of diabetic mellitus, insulin use and poor adherence to diabetes mellitus medications were among the factors significantly associated with proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

Proposed prototype for a quantitative biosensor for insulin detection using a liquid crystal

In this paper, we present a novel approach for label-free detection of human insulin using 5CB liquid crystal (LC). Monitoring insulin levels in the body is essential for treating diseases like diabetes, which are caused by insufficient production or inefficient use of insulin. Contemporary techniques of detection rely on glucose detection, and limited information is available on the direct detection of insulin. A simple method using a common room temperature LC 4-cyano-4-pentyl biphenyl (5CB) interacting with different concentrations of insulin, observed through a polarising optical microscope (POM), is reported in this paper. An analysis of observed textures revealed the detection of insulin as low as 25 μM concentration. The distinguishable features of the observed textures provide a scale for estimating insulin concentration. The effect of different pH and salt concentrations was studied in order to understand the optimal working condition of the proposed biosensor. Image J analysis demonstrated a positive correlation (R2 equal to 0.9553) between grey index (GI) values and human insulin concentrations. RGB analysis and interference studies confirmed the biosensor’s specificity in insulin detection. To correlate the textures to the happenings at the molecular level, docking studies were carried out. In addition to this, properties such as aromaticity, H-bond, hydrophobicity, interpolated charges, ionizability and solvent accessible area (SAS) in the minimum energy binding sites of 5CB-LC and human insulin chains were measured to know more about the interaction properties. This novel strategy shows promise for improving insulin detection sensitivity and accuracy, ultimately leading to better diabetes management and healthcare outcomes.

National trends in utilisation of glucose lowering medicines by older people with diabetes in long-term care facilities

AimsTo examine national trends in glucose lowering medicine (GLM) use among older people with diabetes in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) during 2009–2019. MethodsA repeated cross-sectional study of individuals ≥65 years with diabetes in Australian LTCFs (n = 140,322) was conducted. Annual age-sex standardised prevalence of GLM use and number of defined daily doses (DDDs)/1000 resident-days were estimated. Multivariable Poisson or Negative binomial regression models were used to estimate adjusted rate ratios (aRRs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). ResultsPrevalence of GLM use remained steady between 2009 (63.9%, 95 %CI 63.3–64.4) and 2019 (64.3%, 95 %CI 63.9–64.8) (aRR 1.00, 95 %CI 1.00–1.00). The percentage of residents receiving metformin increased from 36.0% (95 %CI 35.3–36.7) to 43.5% (95 %CI 42.9–44.1) (aRR 1.01, 95 %CI 1.01–1.01). Insulin use also increased from 21.5% (95 %CI 21.0–22.0) to 27.0% (95 %CI 26.5–27.5) (aRR 1.02, 95 %CI 1.02–1.02). Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor use increased from 1.0% (95 %CI 0.9–1.1) to 21.1% (95 %CI 20.7–21.5) (aRR 1.24, 95 %CI 1.24–1.25), while sulfonylurea use decreased from 34.4% (95 %CI 33.8–35.1) to 19.3% (95 %CI 18.9–19.7) (aRR 0.93, 95 %CI 0.93–0.94). Similar trends were observed in DDDs/1000 resident days. ConclusionsThe increasing use of insulin and ongoing use of sulfonylureas suggests a need to implement evidence-based strategies to optimise diabetes care in LTCFs.

N-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide and Risk for Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolic Syndrome.

Natriuretic peptide concentrations are inversely associated with risk of diabetes mellitus and may be protective from metabolic dysfunction. We studied associations of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) with incident diabetes, metabolic syndrome (MetS), and MetS components. 2,899 participants with baseline (2003-2007) and follow-up (2013-2016) examinations and baseline NT-proBNP measurement in the REasons for Geographic And Racial Differences in Stroke study. Logistic regression models were fitted to incident MetS, MetS components, and diabetes; covariates included demographics, risk and laboratory factors. Incident diabetes, defined as fasting glucose ≥126 mg/dL, random glucose ≥200 mg/dL, or use of insulin or hypoglycemic drugs at follow-up but not baseline. Incident MetS, in participants with ≥3 harmonized criteria at follow-up and <3 at baseline. 310 participants (2,364 at risk) developed diabetes and 361 (2,059 at risk) developed MetS over mean 9.4 years follow-up. NT-proBNP was inversely associated with odds of incident diabetes (fully-adjusted OR per-SD higher log NT-proBNP 0.80, 95% CI 0.69-0.93) and MetS in the highest vs. lowest quartile only (fully-adjusted OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.37-0.92); the linear association with incident MetS was not statistically significant. NT-proBNP was inversely associated with incident dysglycemia in all models (fully-adjusted OR per-SD log NT-proBNP 0.65, 95% CI 0.53-0.79), but not with other MetS components. Effect modification by sex, race, age, or BMI was not observed. NT-proBNP was inversely associated with odds of diabetes, MetS, and the MetS dysglycemia component. The metabolic implications of B-type natriuretic peptides appear important for glycemic homeostasis.

Assessing glycemic variability in critically ill patients: A prospective cohort study comparing insulin infusion therapy with insulin sliding scale

Glycemic variability (GV) has been associated with an increased mortality rate among critically ill patients. The clinical outcomes of having less GV even with slight hyperglycemia are better than those having tight glycemic control but higher GV. Insulin infusion remains the preferred method to control stress hyperglycemia in critically ill patients. However, its impacts on GV and clinical outcomes in critically ill patients still need further investigation. This study intended to evaluate the impact of insulin infusion therapy (IIT) compared to the insulin sliding scale (ISS) on the extent of GV and explore its impact on the clinical outcomes for critically ill patients. A prospective, single-center observational cohort study was conducted at a tertiary academic hospital in Saudi Arabia between March 2021 and November 2021. The study included adult patients admitted to ICUs who received insulin for stress hyperglycemia management. Patients were categorized into two groups based on the regimen of insulin therapy during ICU stay (IIT versus ISS). The primary outcome was the GV between the two groups. Secondary outcomes were ICU mortality, the incidence of hypoglycemia, and ICU length of stay (LOS). A total of 381 patients were screened; out of them, eighty patients met the eligibility criteria. The distribution of patients having diabetes and a history of insulin use was similar between the two groups. The GV was lower in the IIT group compared to the ISS group using CONGA (− 0.65, 95% CI [− 1.16, − 0.14], p-value = 0.01). Compared with ISS, patients who received IIT had a lower incidence of hypoglycemia that required correction (6.8% vs 2.77%; p-value = 0.38). In contrast, there were no significant differences in ICU LOS and ICU mortality between the two groups. Our study demonstrated that the IIT is associated with decreased GV significantly in critically ill patients without increasing the incidence of severe hypoglycemia. There is no survival benefit with the use of the IIT. Further studies with larger sample size are required to confirm our findings and elaborate on IIT's potential effect in reducing ICU complications in critically ill patients.

Application of a data continuity prediction algorithm to an electronic health record-based pharmacoepidemiology study.

Use of algorithms to identify patients with high data-continuity in electronic health records (EHRs) may increase study validity. Practical experience with this approach remains limited. We developed and validated four algorithms to identify patients with high data continuity in an EHR-based data source. Selected algorithms were then applied to a pharmacoepidemiologic study comparing rates of COVID-19 hospitalization in patients exposed to insulin versus noninsulin antidiabetic drugs. A model using a short list of five EHR-derived variables performed as well as more complex models to distinguish high- from low-data continuity patients. Higher data continuity was associated with more accurate ascertainment of key variables. In the pharmacoepidemiologic study, patients with higher data continuity had higher observed rates of the COVID-19 outcome and a large unadjusted association between insulin use and the outcome, but no association after propensity score adjustment. We found that a simple, portable algorithm to predict data continuity gave comparable performance to more complex methods. Use of the algorithm significantly impacted the results of an empirical study, with evidence of more valid results at higher levels of data continuity.

Correlation Between Blood Urea Nitrogen and Short- and Long-Term Glycemic Variability in Elderly Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Who Were hospitalized:A Retrospective Study.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disease characterized by insulin resistance and progressively impaired insulin secretion resulting in dynamic fluctuations in glucose levels.High blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels have been linked to decreased insulin sensitivity, suppressed insulin synthesis and increased risk of incident diabetes mellitus in humans as well as insulin use in patients with T2DM.This study characterize the association between BUN levels and short-term and long-term glycemic variability(GV) in the elderly patients with T2DM who were hospitalized. A total of 927 elderly patients with T2DM were included in the study. The short-term GV was quantified using parameters such as standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV), time in range (TIR), and mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE), based on multi-point fingertip blood glucose monitoring. The long-term GV was quantified using parameters such as SD, CV, variation independent of the mean (VIM), and average successive variability (ARV), based on fasting blood glucose(FPG). The relationship between BUN levels and short-term and long-term GV in elderly T2DM who were hospitalized was explored using methods such as Spearman correlation coefficient, linear regression analysis, logistic regression analysis, and interaction tests. In elderly patients with T2DM were hospitalized, there is a significant correlation between BUN levels and both short-term and long-term GV. BUN is negatively correlated with the GV parameter TIR (r=-0.12, P=0.000), and positively correlated with SD (r=0.12, P=0.000), CV (r=0.07, P=0.026), MAGE (r=0.11, P=0.001), FPG-SD (r=0.08, P=0.013), and FPG-CV (r=0.08, P=0.014).Furthermore, the association remains consistent across different age, gender, BMI, and haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) subgroups (P interaction > 0.05). In elderly patients with T2DM were hospitalized, BUN levels were positively associated with GV.Therefore, monitoring BUN levels were beneficial in assessing the degree of GV.

Factors influencing optimal diabetes care and clinical outcomes in Thai patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a multilevel modelling analysis

BackgroundIncreasing levels of poor glycaemic control among Thai patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) motivated us to compare T2DM care between urban and suburban primary care units (PCUs), to...

Bariatric Surgery and the Long-Term Risk of Venous Thromboembolism: A Population-Based Cohort Study.

Bariatric surgery is associated with a greater venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk in the weeks following surgery, but the long-term risk of VTE is incompletely characterized. We evaluated bariatric surgery in relation to long-term VTE risk. This population-based retrospective matched cohort study within three United States-based integrated health care systems included adults with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 35kg/m2 who underwent bariatric surgery between January 2005 and September 2015 (n = 30,171), matched to nonsurgical patients on site, age, sex, BMI, diabetes, insulin use, race/ethnicity, comorbidity score, and health care utilization (n = 218,961). Follow-up for incident VTE ended September 2015 (median 9.3, max 10.7years). Our population included 30,171 bariatric surgery patients and 218,961 controls; we identified 4068 VTE events. At 30days post-index date, bariatric surgery was associated with a fivefold greater VTE risk (HRadj = 5.01; 95% CI = 4.14, 6.05) and a nearly fourfold greater PE risk (HRadj = 3.93; 95% CI = 2.87, 5.38) than no bariatric surgery. At 1year post-index date, bariatric surgery was associated with a 48% lower VTE risk and a 70% lower PE risk (HRadj = 0.52; 95% CI = 0.41, 0.66 and HRadj = 0.30; 95% CI = 0.21, 0.44, respectively). At 5years post-index date, lower VTE risks persisted, with bariatric surgery associated with a 41% lower VTE risk and a 55% lower PE risk (HRadj = 0.59; 95% CI = 0.48, 0.73 and HRadj = 0.45; 95% CI = 0.32, 0.64, respectively). Although in the short-term bariatric surgery is associated with a greater VTE risk, in the long-term, it is associated with a substantially lower risk.

The Effect of Antihyperglycemic Medications on COVID-19: A Meta-analysis and Systematic Review from Observational Studies.

Diabetes, a chronic disease worldwide, may be associated with a poorer prognosis in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). While some antihyperglycemic medications may be beneficial, others may increase the risk of adverse clinical outcomes of COVID-19. We aimed to analyze the effect of antihyperglycemic medications on COVID-19. We searched the Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, and Scopus databases from December 2019 to June 2022 to identify literature related to patients with COVID-19 and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) treated with antihyperglycemic medications. 56 studies were included in the analysis. Metformin (OR 0.66; 95% CI 0.58-0.74; p < 0.05), Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1ra) (OR 0.73; 95% CI 0.59-0.91; p < 0.05), and sodium-dependent glucose transporters 2 inhibitor (SGLT 2i) (OR 0.77; 95% CI 0.69-0.87; p < 0.05) were associated with lower mortality risk, while insulin was associated with increased mortality risk (OR 1.40; 95% CI 1.26-1.55; p < 0.05). Meanwhile, metformin (OR 0.65; 95% CI 0.50-0.85; p < 0.05) and GLP-1ra (OR 0.84; 95% CI 0.76-0.94; p < 0.05) were significantly associated with decreased severe manifestation risk. What's more, metformin (OR 0.77; 95% CI 0.62-0.96; p < 0.05), GLP-1ra (OR 0.86; 95% CI 0.81-0.92; p < 0.05), and SGLT 2i (OR 0.87; 95% CI 0.79-0.97; p < 0.05) were also associated with a decreased risk of hospitalization, but insulin were associated with an increased risk of hospitalization (OR 1.31; 95% CI 1.12-1.52; p < 0.05). Nevertheless, the results of the subgroup analyses showed that the effects of different glucose-lowering agents on COVID-19 may be related to in-hospital use or out-hospital use, elderly or non-elderly patients use, and different geography. Metformin, GLP-1ra, and SGLT 2i have shown a positive effect on clinical outcomes in COVID-19, particularly in non-elderly individuals. However, insulin use may pose a higher risk, especially in elderly patients, so need with caution. Meanwhile, DPP-4i, TZD, α-GLUi, and sulfonylureas appeared to have a neutral effect. These results need to be validated in future clinical studies.

A prospective re-audit on insulin prescribing and administration practices in a university teaching hospital

Abstract Introduction Insulin is a high-alert medication which can cause significant patient harm if used inappropriately and has been identified as a significant medication safety concern in Galway University Hospitals. The first hospital-wide insulin review[1] was conducted in 2022 to evaluate insulin prescribing/administration practices and identify/develop quality improvements inclusive of: -The appointment of a senior pharmacist with a special interest in diabetes (June 2022), -An updated insulin record (November 2022; previous edition June 2019), -Development/implementation of a bespoke local eLearning module for the safe use of high-alert medications including insulin (March 2023), and -Continuous education on appropriate use for healthcare staff and patients/carers. Aim The aim was to conduct a similar insulin study to assess performance since the previous review, and develop further quality improvements as needed. Methods This study was conducted over one day in June 2023 on 24 wards by 26 interprofessional data collectors. Inclusion criteria comprised inpatients prescribed and/or administered insulin for the previous 72 hours. Exclusion criteria comprised non-admitted patients, short stay wards, critical care, maternity, and psychiatry. The protocol and tool were approved by the local Clinical Audit Committee, piloted with four inpatients, and communicated to all data collectors prior to commencement. Generated data were anonymous and securely stored. Data analysis was carried out using Excel by three independent researchers to confirm reliability of results. Results In total 557 inpatients were reviewed, of which 21% (116/557) had diabetes and 10% (56/557) were prescribed insulin. Nearly three-quarters (73%; 41/56) were prescribed a meal-time supplement, whilst 68% (38/56) were prescribed regular insulin – of which 63% (24/38) comprised prescribing errors, an improvement from 78% (32/41) in 2022. Administration errors comprised 84% (32/38) of records, similar to the 88% (36/41) error rate observed in 2022. Approximately one-fifth (21%; 8/38) of insulin orders were not signed by a prescriber, compared to 12% (5/41) the previous year. More than nine out of ten prescribers clearly documented the correct insulin name, dose, and administration times, and 71% (27/38) documented a medical council registration number, bleep, or name for contact purposes, compared to 59% (24/41) the previous year. Failure to document administration times was noted in 42% (16/38) of instances compared to 46% (19; n=41) the previous year. Insulin was not double-checked by a second independent individual in 21% (8/38) of cases, compared to 29% (12; n=41) in 2022. Conclusion Results have identified an overall practice improvement. Building on recent interventions implemented and incorporating newer strategies will aid in enhanced insulin use. An updated version of the insulin record has been implemented due to the recent discontinuation of the referenced perioperative fluid and the introduction of non-referenced blood ketone monitors. High leverage strategies such as ePrescribing is a current consideration to standardise practices. Conducting a study over a longer period may identify further trends. Strengths include study robustness, interprofessional collaboration, and transferability to other hospitals. Disseminating results and promoting benefits should encourage Irish hospitals to participate in a standardised national annual review to optimise patient care.

Knowledge and Attitude Towards Insulin Therapy in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients and Associated Factors at an Adult Endocrine Clinic of SPHMMC Addis Ababa Ethiopia

&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Background:&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Diabetes Mellitus (DM), a chronic disease characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, is associated with severe complications. Type 2 DM (T2DM), the most prevalent form of DM in adults, is characterized by varying degrees of insulin deficiency or resistance. The prevention or delay of macrovascular and microvascular problems associated with DM depends on achieving appropriate glycemic control. The percentage of T2DM patients failing to reach glycemic targets keeps rising even with the expanded availability of numerous anti-hyperglycemic drugs and evidence-based treatment guidelines. The delay in treatment intensification despite inadequate glucose control—often referred to as clinical or therapeutic inertia-contributes significantly to this trend.&amp;lt;i&amp;gt; Objective:&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; This study aims to evaluate the understanding and perceptions of insulin therapy among patients with T2DM. The study focuses on patients under follow-up care at the Adult Endocrine Clinic of St. Paul Hospital Millennium Medical College.&amp;lt;i&amp;gt; Method and Material:&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; An institutional-based, cross-sectional study was carried out from January to March 2021 to evaluate knowledge and attitudes regarding insulin therapy and related factors. A structured questionnaire was used for interviews with a representative sample of 271 T2DM patients who are receiving follow-up care at the endocrine clinic at SPHMMC. The SPSS, version 25, was the software utilized. The statistical significance of the relationship between the dependent and independent variables was assessed using a 95% confidence interval and a p-value less than 0.05.&amp;lt;i&amp;gt; Results:&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; The majority of the respondents were between the ages of 56 and 65, with a mean age of 57.35 years. More than half of the participants, accounting for 231 (85.2%) of the total, were from urban areas. Out of the 271 respondents, approximately 85.6% demonstrated poor knowledge of insulin therapy, and around 37.6% exhibited negative attitudes towards it. Factors such as age, occupation, and a history of long-term Oral Antidiabetic Drug use were found to be associated with the level of knowledge about insulin. In addition to these factors, marital status and a family history of insulin use were found to be associated with patients’ attitudes towards insulin. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Conclusions:&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; Our study identified a significant knowledge gap about insulin usage among T2DM patients in the designated study area. We recommend the implementation of regular, structured health education programs, delivered by trained health professionals. This approach is expected to enhance both the knowledge and attitudes toward insulin usage among patients attending follow-up sessions at the SPHMMC diabetic clinic.

'Insulin is super dangerous if you don't know what you're doing': Situating the risks of insulin within the image and performance enhancing drug community.

Insulin is an essential treatment within diabetes management; however, it takes on a role of enhancement within image and performance enhancing drug (IPED) communities due to its anabolic effects. This study sought to provide insight into how IPED users perceive and manage the risks linked to insulin. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 individuals from Australia and United Kingdom who used insulin as part of their IPED protocols. The analysis followed an iterative categorisation approach and applied the lens of situated rationality theory. The decision to incorporate insulin was influenced by peers' experiences and preferences. Participants highlighted the risks and responsibilities associated with insulin use, emphasising the need for precise lifestyle habits. They recognised the potential dangers and called for comprehensive harm reduction strategies within IPED communities to respond to such concerns. Some participants expressed reluctance to discuss insulin openly, underlining the importance of education and awareness to mitigate health risks associated with underground and uninformed use. While people who use IPEDs demonstrate awareness of the risks associated with insulin, their practices of routinisation moderate these risks within the context of IPED use. Silence as a risk-reduction strategy highlights vulnerabilities among certain prospective users, while the hierarchical structure of IPED use establishes expertise and status within the community. Reconsidering insulin risks entails reframing harm reduction messages to better match the social dynamics of IPED communities. Closer ties between IPED communities can enhance support accessibility, particularly through peers, who, with their firsthand knowledge, can offer tailored guidance.

Trends and regional differences in antidiabetic medication use: a nationwide retrospective observational study

Background The prevalence of diabetes is increasing, and several new drug groups have been authorized and used successfully in the treatment of diabetes, while older drug groups are still in use. Our aim was to assess the utilization tendencies and regional differences in antidiabetic medication consumption in Hungary between 2015 and 2021 and to identify the possible determinants of regional differences in antidiabetic medication use.MethodsFor this retrospective drug utilization study, yearly wholesale database was used, which provides total coverage for ambulatory antidiabetic drug sales in Hungary, including both reimbursed and non-reimbursed medications. Data were expressed as Defined Daily Dose per 1000 inhabitants per day (DDD/TID), percentage of total use and the ratio of the highest and lowest utilization values among the counties (max/min ratio). To assess the potential reasons for regional differences in antidiabetic drug use, we analyzed the associations between regional drug utilization data and possible determinants.ResultsThe total national antidiabetic medication use has increased by 7.6% and reached 94.8 DDD/TID in 2021. Regarding antidiabetic subgroups, the use of metformin and novel antidiabetics (DPP4Is, GLP1As and SGLT2Is) and their combinations increased in all counties, while sulfonylurea consumption decreased, and insulin use was stable. In 2021, 19.2–24.1% of the total antidiabetic medication consumption was novel antidiabetics, 39.1–47.2% metformin, 14.8–25.8% sulfonylureas and 23.6–30.5% were insulins. Regional differences in antidiabetic medication consumption were considerable mainly in the case of GLP1As (max/min ratio:3.00), sulfonylureas (2.03) and SGLT2Is (1.92) in 2021. The association between antidiabetic medication use and possible determinants was confirmed in the case of unemployment rate and sulfonylurea use, the number of public medical card holders per ten thousand inhabitants and human insulin and sulfonylurea use. GLP1As were the only antidiabetic drug group that did not correlate with any of the investigated factors.ConclusionsAlthough novel antidiabetic drug use was growing dynamically in Hungary, sulfonylurea use is still considerable. Differences in antidiabetic drug consumption were substantial between the regions.

Exogenous Insulin Antibody Syndrome (EIAS) Presenting in an Elderly, Long-Term Patient with Type1DiabetesMellitus that Resolved with Low-Cost Outpatient Therapy with Mycophenolate Mofetil and Regular Insulin by Pump.

Exogenous insulin antibody syndrome (EIAS) has until recently been a rarely described complication of exogenous insulin therapy. EIAS results not only in hyperglycemia, but also in hypoglycemia and occasionally in ketoacidosis (DKA). The incidence of EIAS is increasing probably due to an overall increase in autoimmunity associated with the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) epidemic resulting in increasing binding of insulin by antibodies. Herein, we describe a case of EIAS occurring in an elderly patient with longstanding type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) who had progressive loss of glycemic control. It responded positively, as we have previously described, to oral mycophenolate mofetil and the use of soluble regular insulin delivered by continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII). Therefore, EIAS is an increasingly frequent cause of hyperglycemia with and without DKA, and hypoglycemia in subjects with T1DM. Once diagnosed, they can be treated with mycophenolate mofetil and soluble insulin in an outpatient setting, which will decrease the rate of hospitalization and lower the expense of therapy.

Tight versus less tight 1-hour postprandial glycemic target in women with gestational diabetes mellitus - a single-center cohort study.

We aimed to assess the impact of the change of 1-hour postprandial glycemic target from < 6.7 mmol/L (120 mg/dL) to < 7.8 mmol/L (140 mg/dL) on gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) treatment and pregnancy outcomes. In a retrospective analysis of 1021 GDM patients from the Department of Metabolic Diseases, University Hospital in Cracow, Poland, we compared insulin therapy regimens and pregnancy outcomes between women admitted in 2014-2016 (before the change) and in 2018-2019 (after it). A total of 377 patients were admitted between 2014 and 2016 (TIGHT group) and 644 between 2018 and 2019 (LESS TIGHT group). Women from the LESS TIGHT group were older (32 vs 30 years, p < 0.001) and gained less weight during pregnancy (7.0 vs 9.0 kg, p < 0.001). There was no change in the frequency of any insulin therapy (51.6% vs 56.1%, p = 0.168). In the LESS TIGHT group, the basal insulin-only model was used more frequently (32.5% vs 10.2%, p < 0.001), while the prandial insulin and basal-bolus model less frequently (23.6% vs 42.6% and 21.4% vs 36.7%, p < 0.001, respectively) than in the TIGHT group. There were no differences in the frequency of cesarean sections, preterm births, Hbd of delivery, mean birth weight or prevalence of perinatal complications. Less tight glycemic targets in women with GDM, compared to tighter targets, were associated with less frequent use of prandial insulin, with insulin therapy often limited to basal administration. The change in glycemic targets did not affect the prevalence of adverse pregnancy outcomes, providing evidence supporting new recommendations.

Understanding suboptimal insulin use in type 1 and 2 diabetes: a cross-sectional survey of healthcare providers who treat people with diabetes

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to understand the healthcare provider (HCP) perspective on the extent of suboptimal insulin dosing in people with diabetes (PwD), as well as specific challenges and solutions to insulin management.MethodsAn online survey of general practitioners and specialists (N = 640) who treat PwD in Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States was conducted. Responses regarding HCP background and their patients, HCP perceptions of suboptimal insulin use, and challenges associated with optimal insulin use were collected. Categorical summary statistics were presented.ResultsOverall, for type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D), most physicians indicated < 30% of PwD missed or skipped a bolus insulin dose in the last 30 days (T1D: 83.0%; T2D: 74.1%). The top 3 reasons (other than skipping a meal) HCPs believed caused the PwD to miss or skip insulin doses included they “forgot,” (bolus: 75.0%; basal: 67.5%) “were too busy/distracted,” (bolus: 58.8%; basal: 48.3%), and “were out of their normal routine” (bolus: 57.8%; basal: 48.6%). HCPs reported similar reasons that they believed caused PwD to mistime insulin doses. Digital technology and improved HCP-PwD communication were potential solutions identified by HCPs to optimize insulin dosing in PwD.ConclusionsOther studies have shown that PwD frequently experience suboptimal insulin dosing. Conversely, results from this study showed that HCPs believe suboptimal insulin dosing among PwD is limited in frequency. While no direct comparisons were made in this study, this apparent discrepancy could lead to difficulties in HCPs giving PwD the best advice on optimal insulin management. Approaches such as improving the objectivity of dose measurements for both PwD and HCPs may improve associated communications and help reduce suboptimal insulin dosing, thus enhancing treatment outcomes.

Diabetes-related hypoglycemia, contributing risk factors, glucagon prescriptions in two community hospitals

IntroductionHypoglycemia has long been recognized as a dangerous adverse effect of the treatment of diabetes mellitus with insulin or insulin secretagogues. ObjectiveOur study was aimed to identify the number of diabetic patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with hypoglycemia, contributing risk factors for hypoglycemia (including antidiabetic medication regimens), the number of episodes of hypoglycemia requiring medical attention, and how many patients were prescribed glucagon at discharge. Study designOur study is a retrospective analysis across two hospitals from October 2019 to March 2022, including the population of adult persons with diabetes mellitus, above 18 years of age, presenting to the emergency department with hypoglycemia. ResultsOf the women were 2 African Americans, 25 Caucasians, 17 Hispanics, and 39 from other ethnicities. Of the men were 8 African Americans, 32 Caucasians, 27 Hispanics, and 44 from other ethnicities. The mean age of males was 66.2 years, and females was 72.9 years. 131 patients had no prior visits for hypoglycemia. Of the 194 patients, 54 were discharged from the ED, and 140 were admitted to the hospital. The most common risk factors associated with hypoglycemia requiring medical attention were age > 65, having more than one comorbidity, decreased oral intake, and poor socioeconomic status. Regarding recurrent presentations with hypoglycemia, there was a significant association with insulin use (p-value = 0.0007), with a higher-than-expected number of insulin users having a previous visit for hypoglycemia. Only 16.7 % of non-insulin-using patients had prior visits, compared to 40.6 % of insulin users. Pairwise Chi-square testing did not reveal a significant association between any other medication class and prior visits for hypoglycemia, nor was there an association between risk factors and prior visits. To obtain optimal glycemic control, early identification of hypoglycemia risk factors, self-monitoring of blood glucose, and proper selection of anti-diabetic regimens are important to prevent long-term complications. ConclusionUnfortunately, the three elements that would prevent subsequent severe hypoglycemic events (i.e., education, adjustment of medication, and glucagon prescription) are underutilized. Hypoglycemia is more common in the elderly population which remains an unmodifiable risk factor. Identifying patients with persistent poor oral intake is extremely important as they may be prone to hypoglycemic episodes on their current anti-diabetic regimen and will need medication adjustments accordingly. Our future research focuses on whether giving glucagon prescriptions to patients with diabetes mellitus at discharge prevents recurrent ED visits for hypoglycemia.

Glycaemic control among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries: an updated review.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has become a major public health concern, causing significant disability and death worldwide. Fuelled by a modern sedentary lifestyle and poor dietary practices, T2DM affects at least 10.5% of the world's population. This paper seeks to review the progress made by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates) in addressing T2DM, focusing on glycaemic control proportions and comparing it with the 2015 review. The results indicate no significant improvement in glycaemic control proportions since the last review, with only 9.2% to 56.9% of patients having good control (glycosylated haemoglobin < 7%). However, there are no significant differences in glycaemic control between the GCC countries and other places worldwide despite being considered hotbeds of T2DM. Many factors contribute to poor glycaemic control. Specifically, evidence shows that being overweight or obese is the most common modifiable risk factor for T2DM incidence and poor glycaemic control. The GCC countries have higher rates of obesity. Additionally, poor glycaemic control is mainly related to a lack of adherence to insulin and medication use. Poor diet, rich in calories and low in fruits and vegetables, and a sedentary lifestyle also significantly contribute to poor glycaemic control and obesity. Therefore, to reduce the incidence of disease and improve glycaemic control in diabetic patients, educational programs promoting lifestyle changes should be implemented. Ongoing research is also necessary to assess the trend of glycaemic control and its risk factors in our region.