Long-acting analogues in obese people with type 2 diabetes
Q At the recent EASD meeting, there was a paper showing delayed pharmacokinetics of short-acting analogue insulins in obese individuals with type 2 diabetes (Gagnon-Auger et al, 2007). Does anyone know if any research has been carried out regarding long-acting analogues?
Sue Hamilton, Diabetes Nurse Specialist, Queen Mary’s Hospital, London
A I have read this abstract and agree that it seriously questions the value of using rapid-acting analogues in obese people with type 2 diabetes. I am not aware of similar data for long-acting analogues in the same population, however it may be worth getting in touch with one of the insulin manufactures to ask whether or not they have any data on this.
John Wilding, Professor of Medicine, Aintree Hospital, University of Liverpool
Danger from blood glucose level fluctuations
Q I have heard that swings in glycaemia can be just as detrimental as elevated and reduced blood glucose levels. Is the problem related to rapid swings, for example low to high when treating an episode of hypoglycaemia, or is it a longer term problem?
Name and address withheld
A A number of factors affect blood glucose levels and the rate at which they can fall or rise; thus, predicting such occurrences is not always possible. While it should be noted that some fluctuation in blood glucose levels is normal, I am sure we are all familiar with the long and short term dangers associated with uncontrolled blood glucose levels. In hypoglycaemia, the body has a protective function whereby it attempts to raise blood glucose. Therefore, I would suggest that it is not so much the fluctuations in blood glucose, but how high or low they go and how long the high or lows last that creates long-term problems in diabetes.
Trisha Dunning, Professor and Chair of Nursing, Australia
Telephone care
Q With more diabetes being carried out in primary care, we have noticed an increase in phone calls for advice and guidance from both patients and primary care staff. While this is a good use of resource, we are aware that it is not being ‘charged for’. Has anyone got a system to deal with this?
Sue Hamilton, Diabetes Nurse Specialist, Queen Mary’s Hospital, London
Su Down looks back on a year of change and achievement.
17 Dec 2024