Oral antidiabetic drug use in the elderly

Rubin Bressler, David G. Johnson

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

14 Scopus citations

Abstract

Non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) is a metabolic disease that is common in the elderly, and is characterised by insulin insufficiency and resistance. Measures such as bodyweight reduction and exercise improve the metabolic defects, but pharmacological therapy is the most frequently used and successful therapy. The sulphonylureas stimulate insulin secretion. Metformin and troglitazone increase glucose disposal and decrease hepatic glucose output without causing hypoglycaemia. Acarbose is a dietary aid that spreads the dietary carbohydrate challenge to endogenous insulin over time. These pharmacological agents, either alone or in combination, should improve blood glucose regulation in patients with NIDDM.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)418-437
Number of pages20
JournalDrugs and Aging
Volume9
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 1996

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geriatrics and Gerontology
  • Pharmacology (medical)

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