Drug treatment during Ramadan. Don't be complacent about diabetes

Incidence of hypoglycaemia in patients with type-2 diabetes taking multiple glucose lowering therapies during Ramadan: the PROFAST Ramadan Study

Objective

To assess the incidence of hypoglycemia in people with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) on three or more anti-diabetic medications during Ramadan.

Study design methods

We have studied people with T2DM on three or more glucose-lowering drugs during Ramadan of H1438 (May-June 2017). The dose of each drug was adjusted according to a pre-specified protocol. The incidence of symptomatic or blood glucose confirmed hypoglycemia was recorded during the study.

Results

We enrolled 228 people with T2DM; 181 completed the study, and data on hypoglycaemia was available in 172 subjects. There were 115 males and 66 females, (mean age ± SD) 53.6 ± 9.7 years, diabetes duration 10 ± 6 yrs. The incidence of hypoglycaemia was 16.3% (28/172). Univariable logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of hypoglycaemia was increased in Arab subjects compared to Qatari; in those with longer duration of diabetes; and in those on four or more anti-diabetic medications compared to those on three anti-diabetic medications.

Conclusion

Despite the tailored advice, there is a high incidence of hypoglycemia in people with T2DM taking multiple glucose lowering therapies whilst fasting during Ramadan. Guidelines should address the increased complexity in anti-diabetic medications in patients who fast during Ramadan. Healthcare providers should individualize the modifications in anti-diabetic medications during Ramadan.