New findings from November 2024 bring crucial updates on diabetes management, including the connection between depression and increased diabetes risk, insights into insulin icodec, and recent breakthroughs in diabetes care. Here’s a summary of the key highlights.
Depression Linked to Increased Diabetes Risk
Research published in Scientific Reports reveals a significant link between the severity of depression and an elevated risk of developing diabetes. The study suggests that depression could affect various glycemic and metabolic markers, emphasizing the need for healthcare professionals to closely monitor diabetes-related parameters in patients dealing with depression. This finding underscores the importance of integrated care to address both mental and physical health in managing diabetes risks.
Insulin Icodec: Key Insights for Pharmacists
Jennifer Goldman, PharmD, CDCES, BC-ADM, FCCP, a professor at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, discussed insulin icodec in an interview with Drug Topics. This new insulin therapy, designed for once-weekly administration, contrasts with daily basal insulins. Goldman explained how insulin icodec could provide a more convenient treatment option for patients with diabetes and reviewed recent studies on its efficacy. She also addressed concerns about the FDA’s review process and its potential impact on patient care.
Pharmacist-Led Continuous Glucose Monitoring Improves Outcomes
A study published in the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association highlights the benefits of a pharmacist-led continuous glucose monitor (CGM) workflow for diabetes patients. The research shows that involving pharmacists in the management of CGMs can significantly enhance patient outcomes, reinforcing the role of pharmacists in multidisciplinary diabetes care teams.
Sotagliflozin’s Consistent Effect on Blood Pressure in T2D
At the American Heart Association’s 2024 Scientific Sessions, researchers presented data showing that sotagliflozin, a dual SGLT inhibitor, maintains its effect on systolic blood pressure in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D), regardless of kidney function. This discovery positions sotagliflozin as a promising new treatment option for patients with diabetes, especially those with comorbid kidney disease.
Empagliflozin’s Impact on Cardiovascular Health in T2D
Also presented at the AHA 2024 sessions, new data suggests that empagliflozin, an SGLT-2 inhibitor, can improve clinical outcomes in T2D patients with cardiovascular disease. This treatment may offer a significant benefit in reducing heart-related complications in diabetic patients, contributing to better long-term health management.
Diabetes Distress and Eating Problems Affect Time-in-Range
Research presented at the AHA 2024 conference further explored how eating problems and diabetes-related distress contribute to suboptimal time-in-range for blood glucose levels. The findings suggest that addressing these psychological factors could help improve glucose control, with targeted interventions aimed at reducing distress and managing eating behaviors.
SGLT-2 Inhibitors in T2D with Cardiovascular Complications
At the same conference, several studies examined the role of SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with T2D and cardiovascular complications. One study focused on the effects of these inhibitors following heart failure hospitalization, while others investigated their role in improving cardiorenal outcomes and reducing mortality risks in those with coronary artery disease. The data suggests that SGLT-2 inhibitors may play a pivotal role in improving both heart and kidney health in diabetic patients.
As these developments unfold, it becomes increasingly clear that personalized, multidisciplinary approaches will be crucial in addressing the complexities of diabetes management, particularly for patients dealing with multiple health challenges.
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