Topic: diabetes (dm)
Title: Comparing Oral Medications for Adults With Type 2 Diabetes: Clinician’s Guide.
Author: n/a
Source: Rockville, MD: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). 2007. 4 p.
Availability: Available from Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). 540 Gaither Road, Rockville, MD 20850. Phone: 1-800-358-9295. Email: ahrqpubs@ahrq.gov. Website: www .ahrq.gov. Price: Available free of charge on website.
Abstract: This guide helps clinicians understand the current thinking on oral hypoglycemia agents used for adult patients with type 2 diabetes. The guide summarizes evidence from both observational studies and controlled trials that compare the effectiveness and safety of oral hypoglycemia agents. Standard oral hypoglycemic regimens include single drugs and combinations of two or three drugs from different classes, such as metformin and a sulfonylurea. Choosing among available oral hypoglycemia agents requires consideration of their benefits as well as their adverse effects and cost. The dose and prices of the drugs reviewed in the comparative studies are listed on the back page. As single agents, all second-generation sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, metformin, and repaglinide work well to reduce hemoglobin A1C levels by about 1 percentage point on average. Combination therapies reduce HbA1c levels about 1 percentage point more than single drug therapies. People taking sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, and repaglinide gain about 2 to 10 pounds. Metformin does not cause weight gain. This guide does not address insulin, combining oral medications with insulin, older first-generation sulfonylureas, or the new class of DPP-4 inhibitors. Readers are encouraged to consult the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s website at www.effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov for more information.

Format: Brochure/Pamphlet
Language: English.
Major Keywords: Diabetes Mellitus. Drug Therapy. Type 2 Diabetes. Administration and Dosage. Drug Effects. Antidiabetes Agents. Blood Glucose. Oral Hypoglycemic Agents.
Minor Keywords: Biguanides. Sulfonylurea Compounds. Thiazolidinediones. Metformin. Alpha Glucosidase Inhibitors. Hypoglycemia. Hyperglycemia. Weight Gain. Costs.
Publication Number: DMBR11923
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