The incidence of hypoglycaemia in Muslim patients with type 2 diabetes treated with sitagliptin or a sulphonylurea during Ramadan: a randomised trial

Current Position of Gliclazide and Sulfonylureas in the Contemporary Treatment Paradigm for Type 2 Diabetes: A Scoping Review

The increasing burden of type 2 diabetes (T2D), in relation to alarming rise in the prevalence; challenges in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment; as well as the substantial impact of disease on longevity and quality of life, is a major concern in healthcare worldwide. Sulfonylureas (SUs) have been a cornerstone of T2D pharmacotherapy for over 60 years as oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs), while the newer generation SUs, such as gliclazide modified release (MR), are known to be associated with low risk of hypoglycemia in addition to the cardiovascular neutrality. This scoping review aimed to specifically address the current position of gliclazide MR among other SUs in the contemporary treatment paradigm for T2D and to provide a practical guidance document to assist clinicians in using gliclazide MR in real-life clinical practice. The main topics addressed in this paper include the role of early and sustained glycemic control and use of SUs in T2D management, the properties of gliclazide MR in relation to its effectiveness and safety, the use of gliclazide therapy in special populations, and the place of SUs as a class and gliclazide MR specifically in the current T2D treatment algorithm.

Real-world evidence on the effectiveness and safety of gliclazide MR 60 mg in Bangladeshi patients with Type II diabetes during fasting: a sub-analysis from the global DIA-RAMADAN study

Aim: Many Muslims with Type II diabetes (T2DM) fast during Ramadan, which can put them at increased risk of hypoglycemia. This sub-analysis of the global DIA-RAMADAN study assessed the effectiveness and safety of gliclazide modified release (MR) 60 mg in the Bangladeshi cohort. Materials & methods: DIA-RAMADAN was an international, prospective, observational study conducted in adult T2DM patients intending to fast and receiving gliclazide MR 60 mg once daily for ≥90 days before Ramadan. Dosing was switched from morning to evening at the start of Ramadan. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with ≥1 symptomatic hypoglycemic event. Secondary outcomes included changes between inclusion (V0) and end of study visit (V1) in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body weight and fasting plasma glucose (FPG). Results: Among the 98 Bangladeshi patients, 80 (81.6%) were at moderate/low-risk (category 3) for fasting and 18 (18.4%) were high-risk (category 2), as per International Diabetes Federation and Diabetes and Ramadan International Alliance (IDF-DAR) guidelines. Gliclazide MR was being prescribed as monotherapy to 59 (60.2%) patients and in combination with metformin to 39 (39.8%). There was no incidence of severe hypoglycemic events. Mean (±SD) HbA1c change from V0 was -0.1 ± 0.8% (p = 0.159). Mean (±SD) changes in FPG and body weight were -0.8 ± 39.7 mg/dl (p = 0.876) and -0.0 ± 1.5 kg (p = 0.810), respectively. Conclusion: In a real-world setting, this sub-analysis in Bangladeshi patients shows that patients with T2DM treated with gliclazide MR 60 mg can fast safely during Ramadan with a very low risk of hypoglycemia, while maintaining glycemic control and body weight.

Risk Stratification in People with Diabetes for Fasting During Ramadan: Consensus from Arabic Association for the Study of Diabetes and Metabolism

BACKGROUND

Current international guidelines recommend a pre-Ramadan risk assessment for people with diabetes (PwDM) who plan on fasting during the Holy month. However, a comprehensive risk assessment-based recommendation for the management of PwDM intending to fast is still controversial. Therefore, the Arabic Association for the Study of Diabetes and Metabolism (AASD) developed this consensus to provide further insights into risk stratification in PwDM intending to fast during Ramadan.

METHODS

The present consensus was based on the three-step modified Delphi method. The modified Delphi method is based on a series of voting rounds and in-between meetings of the expert panel to reach agreements on the statements that did not reach the consensus level during voting. The panel group comprised professors and consultants in endocrinology (both adult and pediatric). Other members included experts in the fields of cardiovascular medicine, nephrology, ophthalmology, and vascular surgery, affiliated with academic institutions in Egypt.

RESULT

In PwDM who intend to fast during Ramadan, risk stratification is crucial to optimize patient outcomes and prevent serious complications. The present consensus provides risk assessment of those living with diabetes according to several factors, including the type of diabetes, presence, and severity of complications, number of fasting hours, and other socioeconomic factors. According to their risk factors, patients were classified into four categories (very high, high, moderate, and low risk).

CONCLUSION

Future research is warranted due to the controversial literature regarding the impact of fasting on certain comorbidities.

Interventions for people with type 2 diabetes mellitus fasting during Ramadan

BACKGROUND

Fasting during Ramadan is obligatory for adult Muslims, except those who have a medical illness. Many Muslims with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) choose to fast, which may increase their risks of hypoglycaemia and dehydration.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of interventions for people with type 2 diabetes fasting during Ramadan.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, WHO ICTRP and ClinicalTrials.gov (29 June 2022) without language restrictions.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) conducted during Ramadan that evaluated all pharmacological or behavioural interventions in Muslims with T2DM.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors screened and selected records, assessed risk of bias and extracted data independently. Discrepancies were resolved by a third author. For meta-analyses we used a random-effects model, with risk ratios (RRs) for dichotomous outcomes and mean differences (MDs) for continuous outcomes with their associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We assessed the certainty of evidence using the GRADE approach.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 17 RCTs with 5359 participants, with a four-week study duration and at least four weeks of follow-up. All studies had at least one high-risk domain in the risk of bias assessment. Four trials compared dipeptidyl-peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors with sulphonylurea. DPP-4 inhibitors may reduce hypoglycaemia compared to sulphonylureas (85/1237 versus 165/1258, RR 0.53, 95% CI 0.41 to 0.68; low-certainty evidence). Serious hypoglycaemia was similar between groups (no events were reported in two trials; 6/279 in the DPP-4 versus 4/278 in the sulphonylurea group was reported in one trial, RR 1.49, 95% CI 0.43 to 5.24; very low-certainty evidence). The evidence was very uncertain about the effects of DPP-4 inhibitors on adverse events other than hypoglycaemia (141/1207 versus 157/1219, RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.52 to 1.54) and HbA1c changes (MD -0.11%, 95% CI -0.57 to 0.36) (very low-certainty evidence for both outcomes). No deaths were reported (moderate-certainty evidence). Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and treatment satisfaction were not evaluated. Two trials compared meglitinides with sulphonylurea. The evidence is very uncertain about the effect on hypoglycaemia (14/133 versus 21/140, RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.40 to 1.28) and HbA1c changes (MD 0.38%, 95% CI 0.35% to 0.41%) (very low-certainty evidence for both outcomes). Death, serious hypoglycaemic events, adverse events, treatment satisfaction and HRQoL were not evaluated. One trial compared sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors with sulphonylurea. SGLT-2 may reduce hypoglycaemia compared to sulphonylurea (4/58 versus 13/52, RR 0.28, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.79; low-certainty evidence). The evidence was very uncertain for serious hypoglycaemia (one event reported in both groups, RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.06 to 13.97) and adverse events other than hypoglycaemia (20/58 versus 18/52, RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.60 to 1.67) (very low-certainty evidence for both outcomes). SGLT-2 inhibitors result in little or no difference in HbA1c (MD 0.27%, 95% CI -0.04 to 0.58; 1 trial, 110 participants; low-certainty evidence). Death, treatment satisfaction and HRQoL were not evaluated. Three trials compared glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) analogues with sulphonylurea. GLP-1 analogues may reduce hypoglycaemia compared to sulphonylurea (20/291 versus 48/305, RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.74; low-certainty evidence). The evidence was very uncertain for serious hypoglycaemia (0/91 versus 1/91, RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.01 to 7.99; very low-certainty evidence). The evidence suggests that GLP-1 analogues result in little to no difference in adverse events other than hypoglycaemia (78/244 versus 55/255, RR 1.50, 95% CI 0.86 to 2.61; very low-certainty evidence), treatment satisfaction (MD -0.18, 95% CI -3.18 to 2.82; very low-certainty evidence) or change in HbA1c (MD -0.04%, 95% CI -0.45% to 0.36%; 2 trials, 246 participants; low-certainty evidence). Death and HRQoL were not evaluated. Two trials compared insulin analogues with biphasic insulin. The evidence was very uncertain about the effects of insulin analogues on hypoglycaemia (47/256 versus 81/244, RR 0.43, 95% CI 0.13 to 1.40) and serious hypoglycaemia (4/131 versus 3/132, RR 1.34, 95% CI 0.31 to 5.89) (very low-certainty evidence for both outcomes). The evidence was very uncertain for the effect of insulin analogues on adverse effects other than hypoglycaemia (109/256 versus 114/244, RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.44 to 1.56; very low-certainty evidence), all-cause mortality (1/131 versus 0/132, RR 3.02, 95% CI 0.12 to 73.53; very low-certainty evidence) and HbA1c changes (MD 0.03%, 95% CI -0.17% to 0.23%; 1 trial, 245 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Treatment satisfaction and HRQoL were not evaluated. Two trials compared telemedicine with usual care. The evidence was very uncertain about the effect of telemedicine on hypoglycaemia compared with usual care (9/63 versus 23/58, RR 0.42, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.74; very low-certainty evidence), HRQoL (MD 0.06, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.15; very low-certainty evidence) and HbA1c change (MD -0.84%, 95% CI -1.51% to -0.17%; very low-certainty evidence). Death, serious hypoglycaemia, AEs other than hypoglycaemia and treatment satisfaction were not evaluated. Two trials compared Ramadan-focused patient education with usual care. The evidence was very uncertain about the effect of Ramadan-focused patient education on hypoglycaemia (49/213 versus 42/209, RR 1.17, 95% CI 0.82 to 1.66; very low-certainty evidence) and HbA1c change (MD -0.40%, 95% CI -0.73% to -0.06%; very low-certainty evidence). Death, serious hypoglycaemia, adverse events other than hypoglycaemia, treatment satisfaction and HRQoL were not evaluated. One trial compared drug dosage reduction with usual care. The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of drug dosage reduction on hypoglycaemia (19/452 versus 52/226, RR 0.18, 95% CI 0.11 to 0.30; very low-certainty evidence). No participants experienced adverse events other than hypoglycaemia during the study (very low-certainty evidence). Death, serious hypoglycaemia, treatment satisfaction, HbA1c change and HRQoL were not evaluated.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is no clear evidence of the benefits or harms of interventions for individuals with T2DM who fast during Ramadan. All results should be interpreted with caution due to concerns about risk of bias, imprecision and inconsistency between studies, which give rise to low- to very low-certainty evidence. Major outcomes, such as mortality, health-related quality of life and severe hypoglycaemia, were rarely evaluated. Sufficiently powered studies that examine the effects of various interventions on these outcomes are needed.

Roadmap for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes and Hypertension in the Middle East: Review of the 2022 EVIDENT Summit

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension are leading risk factors for death and disability in the Middle East. Both conditions are highly prevalent, underdiagnosed and poorly controlled, highlighting an urgent need for a roadmap to overcome the barriers to optimal glycaemic and blood pressure management in this region. This review provides a summary of the Evidence in Diabetes and Hypertension Summit (EVIDENT) held in September 2022, which discussed current treatment guidelines, unmet clinical needs and strategies to improve treatment outcomes for patients with T2DM and hypertension in the Middle East. Current clinical guidelines recommend strict glycaemic and blood pressure targets, presenting several treatment options to achieve and maintain these targets and prevent complications. However, treatment targets are infrequently met in the Middle East, largely due to high clinical inertia among physicians and low medication adherence among patients. To address these challenges, clinical guidelines now provide individualised therapy recommendations based on drug profiles, patient preferences and management priorities. Efforts to improve the early detection of prediabetes, T2DM screening and intensive, early glucose control will minimise long-term complications. Physicians can use the T2DM Oral Agents Fact Checking programme to help navigate the wide range of treatment options and guide clinical decision-making. Sulfonylurea agents have been used successfully to manage T2DM; a newer agent, gliclazide MR (modified release formulation), has the advantages of a lower incidence of hypoglycaemia with no risk of cardiovascular events, weight neutrality and proven renal benefits. For patients with hypertension, single-pill combinations have been developed to improve efficacy and reduce treatment burden. In conjunction with pragmatic treatment algorithms and personalised therapies, greater investments in disease prevention, public awareness, training of healthcare providers, patient education, government policies and research are needed to improve the quality of care of patients with T2DM and/or hypertension in the Middle East.

Time to reposition sulfonylureas in type 2 diabetes management in Indian context: A pragmatic practical approach

Sulfonylureas (SU) continue to be a vital therapeutic category of oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs) for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Physicians consider modern SU (gliclazide and glimepiride) as "safe and smart" choices for T2DM management. The presence of multiple international guidelines and scarcity of a national guideline may contribute to the challenges faced by few physicians in choosing the right therapeutic strategy. The role of SU in diabetes management is explicit, and the present consensus aims to emphasize the benefits and reposition SU in India. This pragmatic, practical approach aims to define expert recommendations for the physicians to improve caregivers' knowledge of the management of T2DM, leading to superior patient outcomes.

Transient increase in glucose variability during Ramadan fasting in patients with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes: A preliminary study

AIM

We aimed to examine the effect of Ramadan fasting on interstitial glucose control and variability before, during, and after Ramadan in type 2 diabetes patients receiving insulin therapy.

METHODS

Participants received a flash glucose monitoring (FGM) system one week before Ramadan that was removed on the sixth or seventh day (pre- and early Ramadan periods) of Ramadan and a second FGM system one week before the end of Ramadan that was removed one week after the end of Ramadan (late and post-Ramadan periods). Fasting blood samples were collected during the pre-, early, and late Ramadan study visits and tested for HbA1c, serum creatinine, and plasma glucose levels.

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients were prospectively included. The standard deviation and coefficient of variation of glucose concentrations were higher in the early Ramadan period than in the pre-Ramadan period, but did not differ in the late or post-Ramadan periods. Changes in the early Ramadan period were restricted to males and patients aged <55 years. No significant changes were observed in the average glucose level, glucose management indicator, time in range, time in hyperglycemia, or time in hypoglycemia at any time point.

CONCLUSIONS

Ramadan fasting in patients with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes is associated with an initial increase in glucose variability that quickly returned to pre-Ramadan levels. Ramadan fasting was not associated with any significant changes in glycemic control measures.

Ramadan fasting and type 1 diabetes: a scoping review protocol

INTRODUCTION

Ramadan fasting is globally observed and a great majority of the residents of Islamic countries and elsewhere fast during Ramadan all across the world every year. Many patients with type 1 diabetes fast during Ramadan according to (or against) medical and jurisprudence advice. Nonetheless, there is a paucity of scientific evidence regarding the risks patients with diabetes who fast may be confronted with. The current scoping review protocol aims at systematic analysis and mapping of existing literature in the field and highlighting scientific gaps.

METHODS AND ANALYSES

This scoping review will be conducted based on the Arksey and O'Malley's methodological framework with consideration of later modifications and amendments. Three major scientific databases, namely PubMed, Scopus and Embase up to February 2022 will be systematically searched by expert researchers in collaboration with a medical librarian. Considering the fact that Ramadan Fasting is a cultural-dependent subject, which may be studied in the Middle Eastern and Islamic Countries in languages other than English, local Persian and Arabic Databases will also be included. Grey literature will be sought too, and unpublished works such as conference proceedings and academic degree dissertation will be considered. Subsequently, one author will screen and record all abstracts, and two reviewers will independently screen and retrieve eligible full texts. A third reviewer will then be designated to resolve potential discrepancies. Standardised data charts and forms will be used for information extraction and reporting of the outcomes.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

No ethical considerations apply to this research. Results will be published and presented in academic journals and scientific events.

Burden and Patterns of Medical Emergencies during Ramadan Fasting: A Narrative Review

Introduction Acute medical problems may occur more frequently during Ramadan fasting (RF). We aimed to provide a narrative overview of the global literature on medical emergencies during RF.

Methods This is a nonsystematic review of the international literature from one major medical online database (PubMed, National Institutes of Health, United States). The relevant literature was narrated in a concise thematic account.

Results There is a variable impact in the burden and time distribution of emergency services and hospitalization during RF that may require readjustment of resource allocation. Studies of the risk of accidents and injuries may be increased overall or at specified times, around Iftar time. A classical impact of emergencies has been the risk of worsening peptic ulcer disease. RF impacts diabetic emergencies such as severe hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and diabetic ketoacidosis, particularly in type 1 diabetes and poorly controlled patients. Glucocorticoid replacement therapy may represent a challenge to patients and physicians that require education and dose adjustment. Acute neurological conditions of interest include the “first day of Ramadan headache,” epilepsy, and strokes. Several studies evaluated the risk of the acute coronary syndrome and heart failure with inconsistent findings. RF may impact the renal and urological systems through stone disease, renal colic, and acute kidney. The impact on hematological conditions was mostly focused on the safety of anticoagulant therapy during Ramadan.

Conclusion The review addresses the emergency medical encounters of the fasting patient during Ramadan to allow a holistic and ethnically sensitive approach to medical care under circumstances where decisions have to be taken with no delay.

Management of Diabetes and Hypertension within the Gulf Region: Updates on Treatment Practices and Therapies

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death globally, driven by the high rates of risk factors, such as diabetes and hypertension. As the prevalence of these risk factors is particularly high in the Gulf region, better diagnosis and management of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and hypertension has the potential to dramatically reduce adverse cardiovascular outcomes for individuals in that part of the world. This article provides a summary of presentations made during the EVIDENT summit, a virtual symposium on Evidence in Diabetes and Hypertension, held in September 2021, including a review of the various guidelines for both T2D and hypertension, as well as recent findings relevant to the safety and efficacy for therapies relating to these conditions. Of relevance to the Gulf region, the risk of hypoglycaemia with sulfonylureas during Ramadan was reviewed. For the management of T2D, sulfonylureas have been a long-standing medication used to achieve glycaemic control; however, differences have emerged between early and later generations, with recent studies suggesting improvements in the safety profiles of late-generation sulfonylureas. For patients with hypertension, incremental therapy changes are recommended to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications that are associated with increasing blood pressure. For first-line therapy, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi), such as perindopril, have been demonstrated to reduce the risk of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. The addition of calcium channel blockers and diuretics to ACEi has been shown to be effective in patients with poorly controlled hypertension. The different renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors are reviewed, and the benefit of combination therapies, including amlodipine and indapamide in patients with difficult-to-control hypertension, is investigated. The benefits of lifestyle modifications for these patients are also discussed, with important clinical considerations that are expected to inform patient management in daily clinical practice.

Hypoglycemic Events in Diabetic Patients under Non-insulin Regimens During Ramadan: A Frequentist Network Meta-Analysis.. [DOI: 10.1101/2022.05.28.22275730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0]

Background

Diabetic Muslims who choose to fast during Ramadan encounter major risks such as hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and dehydration. Recently, newer antidiabetic agents have been found to be less likely to cause hypoglycemic emergencies. This meta-analysis aimed to present collective and conclusive results from major randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to determine the risk of hypoglycemia among patients taking oral antidiabetics during Ramadan.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for RCTs. We performed a frequentist network meta-analysis using the “netmeta” package of R software version 4.1.1 to investigate the risk of developing hypoglycemia after taking oral antidiabetic drugs during Ramadan.

Results

Nine RCTs with a total of 3464 patients were included in the final analysis. In the comparison of all antidiabetic drug classes with sulfonylureas, SGLT-2 inhibitors were associated with the lowest hypoglycemic risk (RR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.04-0.78; P-score, 0.909), followed by GLP-1 agonists (RR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.17-0.56; P-score, 0.799), and DDP-4 inhibitors (RR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.43-0.75; P-score, 0.483). When comparing individual drugs, dapagliflozin was associated with the lowest hypoglycemic risk (RR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.04-0.78; P-score, 0.874), followed by lixisenatide (RR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.09-0.71; P-score, 0.813), liraglutide (RR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.17-0.69; P-score, 0.715), and sitagliptin (RR. 0.51; 95% CI, 0.37-0.71; P-score, 0.515).

Conclusion

SGLT-2 inhibitors are associated with the least documented hypoglycemic events and adverse outcomes compared with other oral hypoglycemic drugs. These findings could have considerable public health and clinical implications when extrapolated to the global Muslim population with a similar clinical background.

Abstract Figure

Safety Assessment of Glucose-Lowering Drugs and Importance of Structured Education during Ramadan: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Ramadan is the sacred month of the Islamic Hijri (lunar) calendar, and during this entire month, healthy adult Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn to sunset. Muslims with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) who choose to fast during Ramadan encounter major risks such as hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, dehydration, and thrombosis. Although patients with poor glycemic control and on multiple insulin injections are at high risk and exempt from fasting, many still insist on it. Thus, healthcare professionals play a pivotal role in managing diabetes-related complications in patients who fast during Ramadan. However, there is a lack of standard guidelines to be followed in association with structured education and administration of drugs and dosage. Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature to determine the safety and efficacy of different classes of drugs and the importance of structured education during Ramadan.

METHODS

In this review, an extensive PubMed search was performed to obtain literature on T2DM patients who fast during the month of Ramadan until the year 2020. Preference was given to fully downloadable articles. The articles were extracted based on the eligibility criteria. The extracted data were analyzed using Review Manager software version 5.3.

RESULTS

A total of 32 articles were included for the review and 7 studies for meta-analysis. Majority of the studies demonstrated the importance of structured education either as a group session or as a one-on-one session with the healthcare professionals in preventing diabetes-related risks during Ramadan. As far as glucose-lowering drugs are concerned, DPP-4 inhibitor combined with metformin remains the drug of choice for T2DM patients who fast during Ramadan. The newer class of glucose-lowering agents appear to lower the risk of hypoglycemia in comparison with sulphonylureas, while among sulphonylureas gliclazide is relatively safe. The meta-analysis indicates that DPP-4 inhibitors would significantly reduce the risk of hypoglycemia as compared to sulphonylurea (odds ratio = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.26 to 0.55, p < 0.00001).

CONCLUSION

The results of our systematic review show that structured education and counselling by healthcare professionals can be an effective tool in preventing complications associated with fasting during Ramadan in people with T2DM. Additionally, the safest class of oral glucose-lowering drugs preferred during Ramadan fasting in T2DM patients is DPP-4 inhibitors.

Efficacy and Safety of Empagliflozin in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Fasting During Ramadan: A Real-World Study from Bangladesh

AIM

In Bangladesh, there is a large population of Muslims with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who fast during Ramadan. Changes in the pattern of meal and fluid intake during this long-fasting hours may increase the risk of hypoglycaemia, hyperglycaemia, and dehydration. Our key point of focus was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Empagliflozin, a sodium-glucose co transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i), in patients with T2DM while fasting during Ramadan.

METHODS

This was a 24-weeks, multi-centre, open-label, two-arm parallel-group study. In this prospective type of observational study, we enrolled patients taking Empagliflozin and Metformin with or without a DPP-4 inhibitor in one group (n = 274) and a parallel group (n = 219) who were treated with Metformin with or without a DPP-4 inhibitor. The primary endpoint of this study was HbA1c reduction, weight loss and the number of reported or symptomatic hypoglycemic events. In secondary endpoints, we evaluated the changes from baseline in blood pressure, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), serum creatinine, and serum electrolyte, the proportion of volume depletion (≥1 event) and incidence of other adverse events (AEs) of interest potentially related to SGLT2 inhibitor.

RESULTS

During Ramadan, HbA1c reduction was significant in Empagliflozin arm (-0.49% vs -0.12%); [p < 0.001]. From before to the end of the study, significant weight reduction was seen in the Empagliflozin arm (-1.4 kg vs -0.09 kg); [p < 0.001]. We observed no significant increase in the incidence of hypoglycemia (0.7% vs 0.4%, p = 0.267) and volume depletion (2.6% vs 1.8%; p = 0.55) in both arm. All these milder forms events did not require any hospital admission. There was no report of serious adverse events or any discontinuation, or reduction of prescribed doses of empagliflozin during Ramadan.

CONCLUSION

Empagliflozin is efficacious and safe for treating adults with T2DM during Ramadan.

The role of sulfonylureas in the treatment of type 2 diabetes

INTRODUCTION

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasingly prevalent and associated with increased risk for cardiovascular and renal disease. After lifestyle modification, metformin is usually the first-line pharmacotherapy and sulfonylureas are traditionally added after metformin failure. However, with newer glucose lowering drugs that may have less risk of hypoglycemia or that may reduce cardiovascular and renal events, the position of sulfonylureas is being reevaluated.

AREAS COVERED

In this article, the authors review relevant publications related to the use of sulfonylureas.

EXPERT OPINION

Sulfonylureas are potent glucose lowering drugs. The risk of hypoglycemia varies with different drugs within the class and can be minimized by using the safer drugs, possibly in lower doses. Cardiovascular events do not appear to be increased with some of the newer generation drugs. The durability of glycemic control also appears comparable to other newer agents. Sulfonylureas are the preferred treatment for some types of monogenic diabetes and selection of T2D patients who may have greater benefit from sulfonylureas based on certain phenotypes and genotypes is likely to be refined further by precision medicine. Sulfonylureas are inexpensive and readily available everywhere and they are still the most frequently used second-line treatment for T2D in many parts of the world.

Evaluation of the effectiveness and tolerability of gliclazide modified release 60 mg in patients with type 2 diabetes observing fasting during Ramadan in Pakistan: An analysis from the global DIA-RAMADAN study

AIM

To assess safety and effectiveness of gliclazide MR 60 mg in people with controlled or suboptimal controlled T2DM treated with breakable gliclazide MR 60 mg formulation.

METHOD

This study data has been extracted from an international, observational study conducted in nine Asian and Middle Eastern countries. Total 220 patients with T2DM were recruited from Pakistan. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients reporting at least 1 symptomatic HE, whereas secondary endpoints were changes in glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA_1c) %, fasting plasma glucose (FPG) mg/dL, and body weight (kg) and proportion of patients reporting any HE (confirmed or severe), between inclusion visit (V0) and end of the study visit (V1).

RESULTS

During Ramadan, 3.6% (n = 8/220) patients had experienced at least one symptomatic HEs. A significant (p-value < 0.001) reduction was observed in HbA_1c: (mean [SD]) (-0.4 [0.9] %), and body weight (-0.7 [4.8] kg). Thirteen adverse events (AEs) unrelated to gliclazide MR were reported during the study pre-Ramadan and post-Ramadan periods.

CONCLUSION

This study shows safety and effectiveness profile of gliclazide MR 60 mg by emphasizing on the low risk of HEs, effective glycaemic control and body weight reduction in T2DM patients, who are inclined to fasting during Ramadan.

Sulfonylureas in the Current Practice of Type 2 Diabetes Management: Are They All the Same? Consensus from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries Advisory Board on Sulfonylureas

Since their inception in the commercial market in the mid-twentieth century, sulfonylureas (SUs) have remained a therapeutic option in the management of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Despite their established glucose-lowering effects, there is no consensus among global experts and modern guidelines regarding the priority of SUs in relation to other therapeutic options, given the lack of evidence that SUs are associated with a low risk of macrovascular events and excess mortality. However, findings from recent trials and real-time observations have resolved this contentious issue somewhat, albeit to varying degrees. The present consensus discusses the role of SUs in contemporary diabetes management in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Regional experts from these countries gathered virtually to formulate a consensus following presentations of topics relevant to SU therapy with an emphasis on gliclazide, including long-term efficacy, cost, end-organ benefits, and side effects, based on up-to-date evidence. The present narrative review reflects the conclusions of this assembly and provides a platform upon which future guidelines for the use of SUs in the GCC can be tailored.

Descriptive Regional Subanalysis of a Real-World Study in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Treated with Gliclazide MR During Fasting: DIA-RAMADAN

INTRODUCTION

To analyse the safety and effectiveness of gliclazide modified release (MR) in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus participating in Ramadan from three geographically and culturally different regions of the world included in the DIA-RAMADAN study.

METHODS

DIA-RAMADAN was a real-world, observational, international, non-comparative study. The global study population was divided into three regional subgroups, with data gathered at inclusion 6-8 weeks prior to Ramadan (V0), during Ramadan (4.5 weeks) and 4-6 weeks after Ramadan (V1). Primary endpoint was the proportion of patients reporting ≥ 1 symptomatic hypoglycaemic events (HE), which were collected using a patient diary along with other adverse events.

RESULTS

Patient numbers from the three regions were n = 564 (46.5%; Indian sub-continent), n = 354 (29.1%; Middle East) and n = 296 (24.4%; South-East Asia). Patient baseline characteristics, demographics, fasting habits and antidiabetic treatments varied between regions. There were similar proportions of symptomatic HE between regions, with no severe HE. Significant weight reductions were observed in all regions following Ramadan, along with reductions in HbA_1c and fasting plasma glucose.

CONCLUSION

These real-world study data indicate that gliclazide MR is safe and effective for management of type 2 diabetes during Ramadan in all three regions studied as part of DIA-RAMADAN.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT04132934. INFOGRAPHIC.

Ramadan fasting and diabetes, latest evidence and technological advancements: 2021 update

Development of updated guidelines for management of diabetes in Ramadan Fasting is of paramount importance. Nonetheless, evidence-based guidelines in the field of Ramadan Fasting and Diabetes are scarce. Moreover, findings of some recent research such as effects of Ramadan fasting on microbiota, genetics and epigenetics, hormonal changes (such as adiponectin, leptin, testosterone…), and alternations in circadian rhythm should also be reviewed and included on a yearly basis. It is documented that self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is of vital importance for patients with type 1 diabetes who fast, and advantages of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) or flash glucose monitoring (FGM) techniques should be highlighted. Moreover, the recent findings about applications of advanced insulin delivery technology in patients with diabetes who fast in Ramadan should also considered in the annual updates of the guidelines.

Ramadan fasting and diabetes, latest evidence and technological advancements: 2021 update

Development of updated guidelines for management of diabetes in Ramadan Fasting is of paramount importance. Nonetheless, evidence-based guidelines in the field of Ramadan Fasting and Diabetes are scarce. Moreover, findings of some recent research such as effects of Ramadan fasting on microbiota, genetics and epigenetics, hormonal changes (such as adiponectin, leptin, testosterone…), and alternations in circadian rhythm should also be reviewed and included on a yearly basis. It is documented that self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is of vital importance for patients with type 1 diabetes who fast, and advantages of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) or flash glucose monitoring (FGM) techniques should be highlighted. Moreover, the recent findings about applications of advanced insulin delivery technology in patients with diabetes who fast in Ramadan should also considered in the annual updates of the guidelines.

The relationship between depression and metabolic control parameters in type 2 diabetic patients: A cross-sectional and feasibility interventional study

BACKGROUND

Substantial evidence supports a bidirectional relationship between diabetes and clinical depression. However, little is known about the effect of treating one condition on the control of the other. Thus, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of depression among Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients and to assess the efficacy and feasibility of escitalopram treatment of depression on their metabolic control parameters.

METHODS

T2DM patients attending primary care clinics in the North of Jordan were enrolled in a cross-sectional study during the period from February to December 2019 (n = 157). Depressive symptoms were screened utilising the patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) tool. Metabolic control was assessed by measurement of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), triglycerides, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). Patients with moderate to severe depressive symptoms by PHQ-9 (n = 58) were interviewed by a psychiatrist to confirm a clinical diagnosis of depression. Eligible depressed patients were administered escitalopram 10 mg orally once daily for 3 months (n = 12). Thereafter, depressive symptoms and metabolic control measures were reassessed.

RESULTS

The prevalence of moderate to severe depressive symptoms among T2DM patients, according to PHQ-9, was 36.94%, while the prevalence of clinical depression based on interview was 7.64%. Baseline PHQ-9 scores correlated significantly with baseline levels of HbA1c, HDL, cholesterol and triglycerides. Escitalopram treatment intervention resulted in significant improvement of PHQ-9 scores without significantly improving any of the metabolic control measures.

CONCLUSION

The relationship between depression and T2DM in the context of metabolic syndrome is plausible. However, our results show that escitalopram treatment may not be associated with significant improvement in metabolic control parameters among these patients. Our study has laid the groundwork for future randomised clinical trials with larger sample size and longer follow-up.

Impact of Ramadan Diurnal Intermittent Fasting on Hypoglycemic Events in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials and Observational Studies

Ramadan is the 9th month of the lunar calendar during which Muslims abstain from food and drink between dawn and sunset for 30 consecutive days. Ramadan fasting is observed by all healthy Muslim adults, as well many Muslims with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Hypoglycemic events (HE) are a serious complication associated with diabetes management and are associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. Conflicting results have been reported concerning the incidence of HE among people with T2DM observing Ramadan fasting. This review summarizes available scientific evidence on the occurrence of HE and the effects of different moderators on the incidence of HE among patients with T2DM during Ramadan. We conducted a systematic review of available observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for patients with T2DM who fasted during Ramadan, with HE as the primary outcome. Ten databases were searched for relevant studies from inception until October 31, 2020. In total, 68 studies (35 RCTs and 33 observational studies) met the inclusion criteria. Non-sulfonylureas hypoglycemic medications showed superior effects in lowering the incidence of HE over sulfonylureas hypoglycemic medications. Variable moderators were associated with experiencing HE during Ramadan in both observational studies and RCTs, including sex, geographical location, body anthropometric indicators, season, dietary behaviors, fasting duration, time since diagnosis, and pre-fasting education. This comprehensive systematic review covered the largest number of observational and clinical studies investigating the impact of Ramadan on HE among patients with T2DM. The study highlights the significance of different moderators that influence the effect of Ramadan fasting on HE, including dietary behaviors, fasting time duration, sex, season, country, pre-fasting education, age, and time since diagnosis. The study also highlighted the impact of different hypoglycemic medications on HE and noted the superiority of non-sulfonylureas over sulfonylureas hypoglycemic medications in lowering the risk for hypoglycemia in people with T2DM during Ramadan fasting.

Ramadan and Diabetes: A Narrative Review and Practice Update

Fasting in the Islamic month of Ramadan is obligatory for all sane, healthy adult Muslims. The length of the day varies significantly in temperate regions-typically lasting ≥ 18 h during peak summer in the UK. The synodic nature of the Islamic calendar means that Ramadan migrates across all four seasons over an approximately 33-year cycle. Despite valid exemptions, there is an intense desire to fast during this month, even among those who are considered to be at high risk, including many individuals with diabetes mellitus. In this review we explore the current scientific and clinical evidence on fasting in patients with diabetes mellitus, focussing on type 2 diabetes mellitus and type 1 diabetes mellitus, with brief reviews on pregnancy, pancreatic diabetes, bariatric surgery, the elderly population and current practice guidelines. We also make recommendations on the management of diabetes patients during the month of Ramadan. Many patients admit to a do-it-yourself approach to diabetes mellitus management during Ramadan, largely due to an under-appreciation of the risks and implications of the rigors of fasting on their health. Part of the issue may also lie with a healthcare professional's perceived inability to grasp the religious sensitivities of Muslims in relation to disease management. Thus, the pre-Ramadan assessment is crucial to ensure a safe Ramadan experience. Diabetes patients can be risk-stratified from low, medium to high or very high risk during the pre-Ramadan assessment and counselled accordingly. Those who are assessed to be at high to very high risk are advised not to fast. The current COVID-19 pandemic upgrades those in the high-risk category to very high risk; hence a significant number of diabetes patients may fall under the penumbra of the 'not to fast' advisory. We recognize that fasting is a personal choice and if a person chooses to fast despite advice to the contrary, he/she should be adequately supported and monitored closely during Ramadan and for a brief period thereafter. Current advancements in insulin delivery and glucose monitoring technologies are useful adjuncts to strategies for supporting type 1 diabetes patients considered to be high risk as well as 'high-risk' type 2 patients manage their diabetes during Ramadan. Although there is a lack of formal trial data, there is sufficient evidence across the different classes of therapeutic hypoglycaemic agents in terms of safety and efficacy to enable informed decision-making and provide a breadth of therapeutic options for the patient and the healthcare professional, even if the professional advice is to abstain. Thus, Ramadan provides an excellent opportunity for patient engagement to discuss important aspects of management, to improve control in the short term during Ramadan and to help the observants understand that the metabolic gains achieved during Ramadan are also sustainable in the other months of the year by maintaining a dietary and behavioural discipline. The application of this understanding can potentially prevent long-term complications.

Prevalence and Predictors of Thyroid Dysfunction Among Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Case-Control Study

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and thyroid disorders are common endocrine disorders. This case–control study aims to determine the prevalence and predictors of thyroid disorders in T2DM patients.

Methods

A total of 998 T2DM patients attending a tertiary hospital were included and underwent investigations for thyroid function: thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), and free triiodothyronine (FT3); and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). They were compared with 343 non-diabetic subjects as controls.

Results

A total of 1341 participants were included in the study. The mean age ± SD was 60.14 ± 12.21, and 47.9% were females. Among T2DM patients, 140 (14%) were known to have thyroid disorders; and as a direct result of screening, 126 (12.6%) new cases of thyroid disorder were diagnosed. Thus, the overall prevalence of thyroid disorders was found to be 26.7% in T2DM patients which significantly higher than the controls (13.7%), (p˂0.001). Subclinical hypothyroidism was the most common one. Using logistic regression, after adjusting for age, gender, obesity, smoking, anemia, presence of goiter, disease duration, and poorly controlled, the risk factors for thyroid dysfunction among T2DM patients were an age of ≥50 years with an adjusted OR of 3.895 (95% CI 2.151–7.052, p<0.001); female gender (OR 1.757, 95% CI 1.123–2.747, p=0.013); goiter (OR 2.904, 95% CI 1.118–7.547, p=0.029), and HbA1c>7% (OR 2.553, 95% CI 1.472–4.429, p=0.001). However, there were no significant associations between thyroid disorders and complications or duration of diabetes (p>0.050).

Conclusion

A high prevalence of thyroid disorders was reported in T2DM patients. Therefore, we suggest that diabetic patients should be routinely screened for thyroid dysfunction. Old age, female gender, goiter, and poorly controlled diabetes found to be risk factors for thyroid dysfunction among T2DM patients. Consequently, appropriate management and control of diabetes may lower the risk of thyroid dysfunction and vice versa.

Role of Gliclazide MR in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes: Report of a Symposium on Real-World Evidence and New Perspectives

In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who require additional glucose-lowering on top of first-line metformin monotherapy, sulfonylureas are the most common choice for second-line therapy followed by dipeptidyl peptidase inhibitors (DPP-4i). This article summarises presentations at a symposium entitled "Real-World Evidence and New Perspectives with Gliclazide MR" held at the International Diabetes Federation Congress in Busan, South Korea on 4 December 2019. Although guideline recommendations vary between countries, the guidelines with the highest quality ratings include sulfonylureas as one of the preferred choices as second-line therapy for T2DM. Data from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have consistently demonstrated that sulfonylureas are effective glucose-lowering agents and that the risk of severe hypoglycaemia with these agents is low. In addition, both RCTs and real-world observational studies have shown no increased risk of mortality or cardiovascular disease with the use of newer-generation sulfonylureas compared with other classes of glucose-lowering treatments. However, differences between sulfonylureas do exist, with gliclazide being associated with a significantly lower risk of mortality or cardiovascular mortality compared with glibenclamide, as well as the lowest incidence of severe hypoglycaemia compared with other agents in this class. Recent real-world studies into the effectiveness and safety of gliclazide appear to confirm these findings, and publication of new data from these studies in patients with T2DM in the UK, and in Muslim patients who are fasting during Ramadan, are awaited with interest. Another study being undertaken with gliclazide is a pan-India study in patients with maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) subtypes 1, 3 and 12. Patients with these MODY subtypes respond particularly well to sulfonylurea treatment, and sulfonylureas are the first-line agents of choice in these patients. These new and ongoing studies will add to the cumulative data on the efficacy and safety of certain sulfonylureas in patients with diabetes.

The South Asian Health Foundation (UK) guidelines for managing diabetes during Ramadan

BACKGROUND

Fasting in the holy month of Ramadan is among the five pillars of Islam and is considered as a religious obligation by the Muslim population. People with diabetes observing the practice of fasts are at a higher risk of complications such as hypoglycaemia, hyperglycaemia and ketoacidosis due to changes in eating patterns and circadian rhythms. With the objective of mitigating these complications, the South Asian Health Foundation (UK) has developed the present guidelines based on robust evidence derived from epidemiological studies and clinical trials.

METHODS

We have highlighted the role of pre-Ramadan risk stratification and counselling by healthcare professionals with emphasis on the need for advice on adequate dietary and fluid intake, blood glucose monitoring and awareness of when to break the fast.

RESULTS

We reviewed the current literature and have given clinically-relevant recommendations on lifestyle modifications and glucose-lowering therapies such as metformin, sulphonylureas, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, sodium glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors, thiazolidinediones, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and insulin.

CONCLUSIONS

An individualised patient-centric treatment plan is essential to not only achieve optimal glycaemic outcomes but also enable people with diabetes to observe a risk-free month of fasting during Ramadan.

A real-world study in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with gliclazide modified-release during fasting: DIA-RAMADAN

AIMS

To explore the real-world safety and effectiveness of gliclazide modified release (MR) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) fasting during Ramadan.

METHODS

DIA-RAMADAN (NCT04132934) was a prospective, international, observational study conducted in nine countries. Patients >18 years of age with T2DM (N = 1244) were examined at an inclusion visit (V0) occurring 6-8 weeks before the start of Ramadan. Patients received a diary to report treatment changes, hypoglycaemic events (HEs), and other adverse events. Gliclazide MR was taken once daily for 14-18 weeks. A second visit (V1) was conducted 4-6 weeks after the end of Ramadan. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients reporting ≥1 symptomatic HE. Changes in HbA_1c, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and body weight were secondary endpoints.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients reporting ≥1 symptomatic HE during Ramadan was low (2.2%) with no reported severe HEs. There was a significant reduction in HbA_1c (-0.3%), FPG (-9.7 mg/dL), body weight (-0.5 kg) and body mass index (-0.2 kg/m²) between V0 and V1 (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with T2DM treated with gliclazide MR during Ramadan have a low risk of hypoglycaemia and maintain glycaemic control and weight while fasting.

Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose and Hypoglycemia Association During Fasting in Ramadan Among Patients with Diabetes

PURPOSE

The study aims to assess current practices of patients with diabetes to control blood glucose levels during Ramadan.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional approach has been used for collecting data through a structured and interview-based questionnaire to assess the association between self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and hypoglycemia. The questionnaire has recorded information about demographics, duration of diabetes, and treatment of diabetes, and hypoglycemia complications faced during Ramadan. The primary outcomes of this study include frequency of SMBG during fasting in Ramadan and association of SMBG and hypoglycemia and break of fasting. However, the secondary outcomes include medications, glycemic control, and other influencing factors. The data was analyzed using Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.

RESULTS

The findings have shown that the majority of the patients used a combination of metformin+sulphonylurea (23.02%) following metformin+insulin (20.86%), insulin (12.94%), and metformin (8.63%). Whereas diet control, high or low blood sugar, insulin dose adjustment in fasting conditions were the most influential factors during Ramadan when the blood sugar levels were tested. Majority of the patients monitored their blood glucose level during pre-iftar (56.8%) following to hypoglycemia (30.2%), post-iftar (29.4%), and rarely monitored in afternoon (3.5%) despite that only 10.1% monitored their blood glucose on a daily basis. Patients who had symptoms of hypoglycemia and had to break their fasting at least once were 41% and 27.2%, respectively. There is a significant association between age and gender with symptoms of low blood sugar level. Additionally, a significant association between blood sugar monitoring and high blood sugar level has been shown (p=0.041), indicating that lack in daily blood sugar monitoring can increase the blood sugar level of a patient during Ramadan.

CONCLUSION

The present study has helped in providing better understanding about the self-monitoring of blood glucose level and hypoglycemia. Furthermore, it also emphasizes the pre-Ramadan education about when to break their fasting along with frequency and timing of SMBG.

Initial increase in glucose variability during Ramadan fasting in non-insulin-treated patients with diabetes type 2 using continuous glucose monitoring

There are no studies evaluating the glucose variability in different periods of Ramadan fasting in patients with type 2 diabetes using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). This study examined the effect of Ramadan fasting on interstitial glucose (IG) variability in early,- late-, and post-Ramadan compared to pre-Ramadan days in non-insulin-treated type 2 diabetes patients. Participants had a CGM system connected 2 or 3 days before Ramadan start, which was removed on the third or fourth day of Ramadan. CGM performance continued for a total of 6 days. A second CGM performance started on the 27th or 28th day of Ramadan and ended on the 4th or 5th post-Ramadan day. First, CGM recordings were divided into pre-Ramadan and early-Ramadan CGM, and second recordings into late-Ramadan and post-Ramadan. At each visit, blood pressure, body weight, and waist circumference were measured, and fasting blood samples were collected for HbA1c and plasma glucose. All patients received recommended Ramadan education before Ramadan. Thirty-three patients (mean age 55.0 ± 9.8 years, 73% males) were prospectively included. IG variability, estimated as mean amplitude of glycaemic excursions (MAGE), increased significantly in early-Ramadan compared to pre-Ramadan (P = 0.006) but not in late-Ramadan and post-Ramadan recording days. Only patients on >2 anti-diabetic drugs (n = 16, P = 0.019) and those on sulphonylureas (n = 14, P = 0.003) showed significant increase in MAGE in early-Ramadan. No significant changes were seen in coefficient of variation, time in range, time in hyperglycaemia, or time in hypoglycaemia. Except for an initial increase in glucose variability, fasting Ramadan for patients with non-insulin-treated type 2 diabetes did not cause any significant changes in glucose variability or time in hypoglycaemia during CGM recording days compared to non-fasting pre-Ramadan period.

Incidence of hypoglycemia and its risk factors among diabetics during Ramadan in Abha city, Aseer Region, KSA

Background and Aims:

This study aims to explore the incidence of hypoglycemia and its risk factors among diabetic patients attending primary health care center during Ramadan Abha city, Aseer region, Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among adult diabetic patients attending Primary health care centers (PHCCs) in Abha city, southwest of KSA. A questionnaire in Arabic language was used. It consisted of five parts that covered patients demographic and DM relevant profile, hypoglycemia attacks during Ramadan, compliance with drug, diet, exercise and glucose monitoring. Four PHCCs in Abha city were selected randomly to conduct this study. All diabetic patients who attended the selected PHCCs during the month of Shawwal 1439 (corresponding to June-July 2018) were interviewed by the investigators. Data were coded, entered and analyzed using SPSS version 22. Appropriate statistical tests were used accordingly and P value was considered as significant if it was less than 5%.

Results:

The total patients participated in this study was 378. The mean age was 45 years, males represents 51%, mean duration of DM was 12 years, type-1DM constitutes about one third. Most of type-1 DM patients used act rapid and long acting insulin (65%), while in type-2 DM, more than one third (38%) used OHA, 8% were on insulin alone. More than half of patients (52%) reported at least one attack of hypoglycemia during Ramadan, (29%) out of them had more than four attacks. About two third of attacks (67%) occurred in the morning and evening while less than one fourth have hypoglycemia at night (17%), (2%) visited ER or PHC and 1% were admitted to hospital for further management.

Conclusion:

This study revealed that the incidence of hypoglycemia among diabetics was high. Many Risk factors were identified; young age, type-1 DM, long duration of DM, insulin use. More attacks occurred during Ramadan day period and led to breaking the fasting among all affected patients. Most of patients were not given instructions regarding self-care immediately before or during Ramadan. Structured health education program for diabetics attending PHCC should be constructed and implemented before beginning of Ramadan in order to minimize the incidence of acute complications particularly hypoglycemia.

Safety of lixisenatide versus sulfonylurea added to basal insulin treatment in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus who elect to fast during Ramadan (LixiRam): An international, randomized, open-label trial

AIMS

Adding lixisenatide to basal insulin (BI) instead of sulfonylurea (SU), versus continuing SU + BI was assessed in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who intended to fast during Ramadan 2017.

METHODS

LixiRam (NCT02941367) was a phase 4, randomized, open-label, 12-22-week study in people with T2DM insufficiently controlled with SU + BI ± 1 oral anti-diabetic. Endpoints included the percentage of participants with ≥1 documented symptomatic hypoglycemia event (plasma glucose ≤70 mg/dL; primary endpoint) and any hypoglycemia during Ramadan fasting.

RESULTS

A numerically lower percentage of participants with lixisenatide + BI (3.3%, 3/91) versus SU + BI (8.9%, 8/90) had ≥1 documented symptomatic hypoglycemia event (intent-to-treat visit 4) during Ramadan fasting (OR: 0.34; 95% CI 0.09, 1.35; proportion difference -0.06, 95% CI -0.13, 0.01); the difference was statistically significant for the 'any hypoglycemia' category (lixisenatide + BI: 4.3%, 4/92; SU + BI: 17.4%, 16/92; OR: 0.22; 95% CI 0.07, 0.68; proportion difference -0.13, 95% CI -0.22, -0.04; intent-to-treat). No new treatment-emergent adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with SU + BI, lixisenatide + BI provided lower rates of any hypoglycemia in people with T2DM during Ramadan fasting. Lixisenatide + BI therapy may be a suitable treatment option during fasting.

A systematic review on efficacy and safety of the current hypoglycemic agents in patients with diabetes during Ramadan fasting

The fasting in the holy month of Ramadan is passionately practised among the Muslims population around the world. Patients with diabetes are generally considered to have various risks with fasting. The recent pharmacologic and technical advances in the management of diabetes may have enabled these patients to practice safe fasting. The purpose of this review is to scientific evidence on the safety and efficacy of the current hypoglycemic agents during Ramadan. METHODS: An extensive Electronic search via PubMed and Google scholar was accomplished through using different search terms. The eligible studies were limited to only published Randomised controlled trial (RCT) and prospective observational studies from 2007 to 2018 on patients with all types of diabetes on any pharmacological management, who intended to fast in Ramadan. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The current era witnessed a gradual shift in the management of these patients with diabetes who elected to fast in Ramadan, despite the variable health-related risks with fasting. Results from available RCTs and observational studies in patients with type 2 diabetes showed lower risk of hypoglycemia, similar or better efficacy for glycemic and weight control with SGLT2 inhibitors, incretin mimetics and the newer insulin analogues compared to Sulfonylurea. Gliclazide is a relatively safer option among all sulfonylurea. Patients requiring insulin did better with insulin analogues, especially the newer premixed formulation at the time of breaking fast compared to the former insulin formulation. Current commonly used newer hypoglycemic agents are generally safe during Ramadan, however, their safety in the higher risk diabetes patients is highly needed.

The place of gliclazide MR in the evolving type 2 diabetes landscape: A comparison with other sulfonylureas and newer oral antihyperglycemic agents

The sulfonylureas are effective oral glucose-lowering agents with a long history of clinical use. While all have the same general mechanism of action, their pharmacokinetic properties are influenced by factors such as dosage, rate of absorption, duration of action, route of elimination, tissue specificity, and binding affinity for pancreatic β-cell receptor. The result is a class of agents with similar HbA1c-lowering efficacy, but well-documented differences in terms of effects on hypoglycemia, and cardiovascular and renal safety. This review examines the differences between currently available sulfonylureas with a focus on how gliclazide modified release (MR) differs from other members of this class and from newer oral antihyperglycemic agents in the form of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) and sodium- glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. The first part focuses on major outcome trials that have been conducted with the sulfonylureas and new oral agents. Consideration is then given to factors important for day-to-day prescribing including efficacy and durability, weight changes, hypoglycemia, renal effects and cost. Based on current evidence, third-generation sulfonylureas such as gliclazide MR possess many of the properties desired of a type 2 diabetes drug including high glucose-lowering efficacy, once-daily oral administration, few side effects other than mild hypoglycemia, and cardiovascular safety.

A randomized controlled trial to compare the effects of sulphonylurea gliclazide MR (modified release) and the DPP-4 inhibitor vildagliptin on glycemic variability and control measured by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in Brazilian women with type 2 diabetes

AIMS

This study aims to evaluate whether there is a difference between the effects of vildagliptin and gliclazide MR (modified release) on glycemic variability (GV) in women with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) as evaluated by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM).

METHODS

An open-label, randomized study was conducted in T2DM women on steady-dose metformin monotherapy which were treated with 50 mg vildagliptin twice daily or 60-120 mg of gliclazide MR once daily. CGM and GV indices calculation were performed at baseline and after 24 weeks.

RESULTS

In total, 42 patients (age: 61.9 ± 5.9 years, baseline glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c): 7.3 ± 0.56) were selected and 37 completed the 24-week protocol. Vildagliptin and gliclazide MR reduced GV, as measured by the mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE, p = 0.007 and 0.034, respectively). The difference between the groups did not reach statistical significance. Vildagliptin also significantly decreased the standard deviation of the mean glucose (SD) and the mean of the daily differences (MODD) (p = 0.007 and 0.030).

CONCLUSIONS

Vildagliptin and gliclazide MR similarly reduced the MAGE in women with T2DM after 24 weeks of treatment. Further studies are required to attest differences between vildagliptin and gliclazide MR regarding glycemic variability.

Safety of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors (SGLT2-I) During the Month of Ramadan in Muslim Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Objectives

Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2-I) are a new class of antidiabetic drugs that might increase the risk of dehydration and hypoglycemia, particularly during the month of Ramadan in which Muslims abstain from eating and drinking for 14-16 hours daily. We aimed to provide real-life evidence about the safety of SGLT2-I during Ramadan.

Methods

All patients over the age of 18 years on SGLT2-I before Ramadan 2016 who would be fasting during Ramadan were included. Demographic data, detailed medical history including comorbidities and medication profile, and laboratory results were collected before and after Ramadan. We also conducted a phone interview to evaluate the frequency and severity of hypoglycemia and dehydration.

Results

Of the total of 417 patients, 113 (27.0%) experienced hypoglycemic events, and 93 of these (82.3%) checked their blood glucose using a glucometer. Confirmed hypoglycemia (< 70 mg/dL) was observed in 78 (83.8%). The hypoglycemic events were significantly more frequent in the SGLT2-I plus insulin-treated group than in those treated with SGLT2-I plus oral hypoglycemic agents group (p < 0.001). Confirmed hypoglycemic events were more frequent in those using SGLT2-I plus intensive insulin compared to those using SGLT2-I plus basal insulin (p = 0.020). Symptoms of dehydration were seen in 9.3% (n = 39) of the total population. We observed statistically significant reductions in glycated hemoglobin and weight by the end of Ramadan (p < 0.001). There were no significant changes in lipid profile and creatinine levels by the end of the study.

Conclusions

The use of insulin in combination with SGLT2-I increases the risk of hypoglycemia during Ramadan. Hypoglycemic events were mild and did not require hospital admission. However, careful monitoring during prolonged fasting is warranted. No significant harmful effects on renal function result from treatment with SGLT2-I during Ramadan.

Rahim AA, Eliana F, Shrestha HK, Chaudhary S, Ngugi N, Mbanya JC, Aye TT, Latt TS, Akanov ZA, Syed AR, Tandon N, Unnikrishnan AG, Madhu SV, Jawa A, Chowdhury S, Bajaj S, Das AK. Consensus Recommendations on Sulfonylurea and Sulfonylurea Combinations in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus - International Task Force

For decades, sulfonylureas (SUs) have been important drugs in the antidiabetic therapeutic armamentarium. They have been used as monotherapy as well as combination therapy. Focus on newer drugs and concerns about the risk of severe hypoglycemia and weight gain with some SUs have led to discussion on their safety and utility. It has to be borne in mind that the adverse events associated with SUs should not be ascribed to the whole class, as many modern SUs, such as glimepiride and gliclazide modified release, are associated with better safety profiles. Furthermore, individualization of treatment, using SUs in combination with other drugs, backed with careful monitoring and patient education, ensures maximum benefits with minimal side effects. The current guidelines, developed by experts from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, promote the safe and smart use of SUs in combination with other glucose-lowering drugs.

Effectiveness of gliclazide MR 60 mg in the management of type 2 diabetes: analyses from the EASYDia trial

BACKGROUND

Although the number of antihyperglycemic agents has expanded significantly, sulfonylureas (in particular gliclazide) remain an important option because of a variety of patient and health system factors. The large, real world, observational, and international EASYDia trial evaluated the effectiveness of gliclazide modified release (MR) 60 mg in individuals with type 2 diabetes with a broad range of diabetes history, body mass index (BMI) and background antihyperglycemic treatment.

METHODS

A total of 7170 participants from eight countries, age ≥ 35 years with HbA1c ≥ 7.5% and not treated with insulin, were prescribed 30-120 mg of gliclazide MR 60 mg once daily. HbA1c goals were individualized and dosing uptitrated, as required, over the 6-month long study. In this post hoc subanalysis, efficacy endpoints were analyzed according to stratified baseline HbA1c levels, weight and glucose-lowering regimens. Episodes of hypoglycemia requiring assistance were documented.

RESULTS

At baseline, mean age was 58.9 years, HbA1c 8.8%, BMI 30.1 kg/m², and diabetes duration 5.1 years. At study end, clinically significant HbA1c improvements (mean change - 1.78%) were noted across all baseline HbA1c strata (> 7.0 to ≤ 8.0%, > 8.0 to ≤ 9.0%, > 9.0 to ≤ 10.0%, and > 10.0%), BMI classifications (18.5 to < 25.0, 25.0 to < 30.0, and ≥ 30.0 kg/m²), and regardless of the original diabetes treatment regimen (P < 0.001 in all cases). In contrast to the subgroups with BMI 25.0-30.0 and ≥ 30.0 kg/m² that registered weight losses of 0.9 and 2.2 kg, respectively (P < 0.001 vs. baseline weight); the BMI 18.5-24.9 kg/m² subgroup gained a mean 0.5 kg (P < 0.02 vs. baseline weight). Severe hypoglycemic events were rare (0.06%).

CONCLUSIONS

Progressive gliclazide MR 60 mg uptitration was well tolerated and lowered HbA1c across a broad range of HbA1c, BMI and background glucose-lowering therapy. Weight loss was noted when BMI was ≥ 25.0 kg/m². Individuals with the highest baseline HbA1c and BMI experienced the greatest HbA1c and weight improvements.Trial registration ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN00943368 on 1st July 2011.

Ramadan fasting in diabetes-exercise in problem-solving

AIM

Appropriate management of a diabetic patient with co-morbidities, who is willing to fast during Ramadan. Case presentation A 45 year old male patient with T2DM for 5 years, current A1c of 8.3% and other co-morbidities is currently treated with metformin 500mg BID and glimepiride 2mg. During the pre-Ramadan assessment, glimepiride 2mg was changed to extended release gliclazide 60mg. It resulted in an improvement in his glycemic and microalbuminuria status without any hypoglycemic episodes.

CONCLUSION

Appropriate risk stratification with medication adjustment and Ramadan-specific diabetes education are the important aspects of T2DM management in patients willing to fast during Ramadan.

Clinical practice points for diabetes management during RAMADAN fast

Diabetes management during Ramadan is very crucial from the patient perspective as it can present significant risk of hypoglycemia and death when proper care is not taken. Moreover, managing diabetes in fasting Ramadan patients require different mechanisms than the routine diabetes management and pose significant challenge to the health care practitioners. Here we set forth to review the available literature of various clinical trials and studies on different antidiabetic agents in the context of Ramadan. On the basis of available evidence, we suggest that gliclazide is effective and it could be safely recommended in type 2 diabetic patients fasting during Ramadan.

Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitor Development and Post-authorisation Programme for Vildagliptin - Clinical Evidence for Optimised Management of Chronic Diseases Beyond Type 2 Diabetes

The last decade has witnessed the role of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors in producing a conceptual change in early management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by shifting emphasis from a gluco-centric approach to holistically treating underlying pathophysiological processes. DPP-4 inhibitors highlighted the importance of acknowledging hypoglycaemia and weight gain as barriers to optimised care in T2DM. These complications were an integral part of diabetes management before the introduction of DPP-4 inhibitors. During the development of DPP-4 inhibitors, regulatory requirements for introducing new agents underwent substantial changes, with increased emphasis on safety. This led to the systematic collection of adjudicated cardiovascular (CV) safety data, and, where 95% confidence of a lack of harm could not be demonstrated, the standardised CV safety studies. Furthermore, the growing awareness of the worldwide extent of T2DM demanded a more diverse approach to recruitment and participation in clinical trials. Finally, the global financial crisis placed a new awareness on the health economics of diabetes, which rapidly became the most expensive disease in the world. This review encompasses unique developments in the global landscape, and the role DPP-4 inhibitors, specifically vildagliptin, have played in research advancement and optimisation of diabetes care in a diverse population with T2DM worldwide.

Predetermined Anti-Diabetic Drug Regimen Adjustments during Ramadan Fasting: An Observational Study of Safety

BACKGROUND

Many Muslim type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients choose to fast the month of Ramadan despite the possible adverse health effects brought about by the change in dietary habits, among other things. Clinical data regarding the safety of multi-drug regimens during fasting are particularly scarce. The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety of a drug protocol devised by the authors to accommodate Ramadan's dietary changes, involving dose adjustments of four anti-diabetic drug regimens in T2DM patients fasting Ramadan.

METHODS

In this prospective, observational, open-label study, 301 T2DM patients who wished to fast Ramadan were followed during Ramadan and the preceding month. The incidence of hypoglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and non-ketotic hyperosmolar state (NKHS) was monitored. Patients were classified into four groups: A group (those taking metformin, sulfonylurea and insulin [n=33]); B group (metformin and sulfonylurea [n=89]); C group (metformin and insulin [n=96]); and D group (premixed 70/30, glargine or regular insulin [n=82]). During Ramadan, drug doses were adjusted as percentages of their pre-Ramadan values: 75% for sulfonylureas, 75% for glargine, 75% for premixed insulin 70/30 in two doses, and 75% for regular insulin. Metformin was adjusted to a twice-daily regimen.

RESULTS

No cases of DKA or NKHS were reported. Hypoglycemia occurred at a lower rate than pre-Ramadan values in groups C, and D; and a similar rate in groups A, and B.

CONCLUSION

The data suggested that using the above protocol to adjust the doses of anti-diabetic drugs is safe in T2DM patients in regards to hypoglycemia, DKA, and NKHS.

Diabetes and Ramadan: Practical guidelines

Ramadan fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam and is compulsory for all healthy Muslims from puberty onwards. Exemptions exist for people with serious medical conditions, including many with diabetes, but a large number will participate, often against medical advice. Ensuring the optimal care of these patients during Ramadan is crucial. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and Diabetes and Ramadan (DAR) International Alliance have come together to deliver comprehensive guidelines on this subject. The key areas covered include epidemiology, the physiology of fasting, risk stratification, nutrition advice and medication adjustment. The IDF-DAR Practical Guidelines should enhance knowledge surrounding the issue of diabetes and Ramadan fasting, thereby empowering healthcare professionals to give the most up-to-date advice and the best possible support to their patients during Ramadan.

Diabetes and Ramadan: A concise and practical update

Despite the fact that the month of Ramadan includes 29–30 days and the duration of fasting for each day can last for between 12 and 16 h, it was estimated that a large number of individuals with diabetes do fast during Ramadan. In light of recent advancement of new pharmacological agents, drugs such as vildagliptin, sitagliptin, and liraglutide were found to be safe to use during this month of fasting. These therapeutic agents can also be used in combination with metformin. The use of sulfonylureas, in most of the recent guidelines about diabetes and Ramadan, seems not to gain much support due to the risk of hypoglycemia. In this review, we also addressed the use of insulin injection, insulin pump, and education before, during, and after Ramadan. Further research is needed to determine (i) the therapeutic benefit of new antidiabetic agents and (ii) the benefit of new technologies for the treatment of diabetes.

Vildagliptin has the same safety profile as a sulfonylurea on bone metabolism and bone mineral density in post-menopausal women with type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Several antidiabetic therapies affect bone metabolism. Sulfonylureas have the lowest impact on bone among oral antidiabetics. The objective of this study is to compare the effects of vildagliptin and gliclazide modified release (MR) on bone turnover markers (BTMs) and bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes (T2D).

METHODS

Forty-two postmenopausal women with uncontrolled T2D were randomly allocated into vildagliptin or gliclazide MR (control) groups. The primary endpoint was the change in the BTMs in months 6 and 12 compared with the baseline. The secondary endpoint was the variation in the BMD, which was assessed via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at the lumbar spine, femoral neck and total hip at baseline and month 12.

RESULTS

After a 12-month treatment, the BTM serum carboxy-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen increased 0.001 ± 0.153 ng/mL in the vildagliptin group versus 0.008 ± 0.060 ng/mL in the gliclazide MR group (p = 0.858). The serum osteocalcin, serum amino-terminal propeptide of procollagen type I and urinary amino-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen remained stable in both groups, and there was no statistically significant difference between the effect of vildagliptin and gliclazide MR on these variables. The lumbar spine BMD did not change in the vildagliptin or gliclazide MR groups after a 12-month treatment (0.000 ± 0.025 g/cm² versus -0.008 ± 0.036, respectively, p = 0.434). Furthermore, there was a similar lack of change in the femoral neck and total hip BMD values in both treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

Bone turnover markers and BMD remained unchanged after a 12-month treatment in both groups, which suggests that vildagliptin has the same safety profile as gliclazide MR on bone metabolism. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT01679899.

Efficacy and safety of liraglutide compared to sulphonylurea during Ramadan in patients with type 2 diabetes (LIRA-Ramadan): a randomized trial

AIMS

Compare effects of liraglutide 1.8 mg and sulphonylurea, both combined with metformin, on glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) fasting during Ramadan.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this up to 33-week, open-label, active-controlled, parallel-group trial, adults [glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 7%-10% (53-86 mmol/mol); body mass index ≥20 kg/m(2) ; intent to fast] were randomized (1:1) ≥10 weeks before Ramadan to either switch to once-daily liraglutide (final dose 1.8 mg) or continue pre-trial sulphonylurea at maximum tolerated dose, both with metformin.

PRIMARY ENDPOINT

change in fructosamine, a validated marker of short-term glycaemic control, during Ramadan.

RESULTS

Similar reductions in fructosamine levels were observed for both groups during Ramadan [liraglutide (-12.8 µmol/L); sulphonylurea (-16.4 µmol/L); estimated treatment difference (ETD) 3.51 µmol/L (95% CI: -5.26; 12.28); p = 0.43], despite lower fructosamine levels in the liraglutide group at start of Ramadan. Fewer documented symptomatic hypoglycaemic episodes were reported in liraglutide-treated (2%, three subjects) versus sulphonylurea-treated patients (11%, 18 subjects). No severe hypoglycaemic episodes were reported by either group. Body weight decreased more during Ramadan with liraglutide (ETD: -0.54 kg; 95% CI: -0.94;-0.14; p = 0.0091). The proportion of patients reporting adverse events was similar between groups. Liraglutide led to greater HbA1c reduction [ETD: -0.59% (-6.40 mmol/mol), 95% CI: -0.79; -0.38%; -8.63; -4.17 mmol/mol; p < 0.0001].

CONCLUSIONS

Despite lower fructosamine levels and body weight at the beginning of Ramadan, use of liraglutide showed similar glycaemic improvements, fewer hypoglycaemic episodes and greater body weight reduction compared with sulphonylurea. LIRA-Ramadan provides evidence for liraglutide being safe and efficacious for management of T2D during Ramadan fasting.

Guidelines for managing diabetes in Ramadan

BACKGROUND

Globally there are approximately 90 million Muslims with diabetes of which approximately 400 000 reside within the UK. The holy month of Ramadan is a fundamental practice of this religion of which fasting from sun-rise to sun-set is an integral part. This poses many potential risks for those with diabetes who wish to observe Ramadan.

METHODS

The evidence base for best clinical management of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes during Ramadan was reviewed. We reviewed current and previous recommendations for safe fasting during Ramadan.

RESULTS

The risks associated with fasting in those with diabetes and preparing your patient for Ramadan are discussed. We have reviewed the evidence around diet-controlled diabetes and therapies including; metformin, acarbose, metglitinides, sulfonylureas, thiazolidinidiones, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (DPP-4), sodium glucose co-transporter -2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide -1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and insulin.

CONCLUSION

Up to date guidelines for the management of treatment regimes are set-out for those with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes who wish to fast during Ramadan.

Effect of Vildagliptin Versus Sulfonylurea in Muslim Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Fasting During Ramadan in Egypt: Results from VIRTUE Study

INTRODUCTION

Fasting in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with high risk of hypoglycemia. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness and safety of vildagliptin in T2DM patients fasting during Ramadan in a real-life setting in Egypt.

METHODS

In this 16-week prospective and noninterventional study, data were collected up to 6 weeks before and after Ramadan fasting. Patients who had received vildagliptin or sulfonylurea (SU) either as dual therapy with metformin or as monotherapy were enrolled into the study.

RESULTS

Two hundred fifty four patients were enrolled in the study, out of which 246 [121 (97.6%) treated with vildagliptin and 125 (99.2%) with SU] were included in the safety analysis set. A significantly lower proportion of patients experienced ≥1 hypoglycemic event (HE) with vildagliptin as compared to those receiving SUs (1.7% vs. 19.2%, respectively; p < 0.001). No patient in either group reported a grade 2 HE. At week 16, mean change in HbA1c from baseline for vildagliptin and SU were -0.1% and +0.3%, respectively, with a between-treatment difference of -0.4% (p < 0.001). Mean change in body weight from baseline for vildagliptin and SU were -0.8 and -0.1 kg, with a between-treatment difference of -0.7 kg (p = 0.011). A higher proportion of SU-treated patients experienced adverse events compared to those treated with vildagliptin (23.2% vs. 5.8%, respectively), the primary reason being the high incidence of hypoglycemia in the SU group (n = 24, 19.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with vildagliptin was associated with lower incidence of hypoglycemia compared with SU and showed good glycemic and weight control in patients with T2DM fasting during Ramadan in a real-life setting in Egypt.

FUNDING

Novartis Pharma AG.

A review of glycemic efficacy of liraglutide once daily in achieving glycated hemoglobin targets compared with exenatide twice daily, or sitagliptin once daily in the treatment of type 2 diabetes

Incretin-based therapies such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (RA) and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors have gained prominence in recent years for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Such therapies offer the potential to stimulate endogenous insulin activity in proportion to circulating glucose levels; thereby, lowering the risk of hypoglycemic episodes. The synthetic GLP-1 RA exenatide, the human GLP-1 RA liraglutide, and the DPP-4 inhibitor sitagliptin are the first agents in their respective classes to be approved for the treatment of T2D and their efficacy and safety has been studied extensively in clinical trials. This article reviewed the efficacy of liraglutide once daily in achieving clinical guidelines-recommended glycated hemoglobin A1c levels in patients with T2D compared with exenatide twice daily, or sitagliptin once daily, based on published literature, with an aim to elucidate the preferred choice of incretin-related therapy in treating uncontrolled T2D.