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Avandia for Type 2 Diabetes
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Millions of people worldwide take medication to treat type 2 diabetes, a disorder in which blood levels of glucose are abnormally high. According to a new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the drug Avandia is more effective at maintaining long-term blood sugar control than two older agents but may have more side effects.
Type 2 diabetes accounts for more than 90% of all cases of diabetes worldwide, and affects over 100 million people. Its prevalence is increasing dramatically due largely to lifestyle factors. The disease generally starts in middle age, and the risk factors are greater in certain families and ethnic groups. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to blindness, amputations, kidney failure, heart disease, and early death.
Avandia is a newer oral drug that helps to lower sugar levels in those with type 2 diabetes by improving the body’s response to insulin. Older drugs, like glyburide and metformin, work differently and only treat the symptoms of the disease.
The study involved 4,360 patients with recently diagnosed type 2 diabetes. The patients, aged 30-75 years, had excessively high levels of blood sugar while engaging in lifestyle management only. They were randomized to either Avandia, glyburide or metformin.
After 5 years, Avandia reduced the risk of disease progression by 32% when compared to the other medicines. However, it was associated with a higher risk for heart failure and weight gain.
This study provides doctors with important information to help them choose the best drug for their patients with diabetes. Effectiveness, side effects, and affordability are all important factors when selecting the most appropriate therapy.
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