Beneficial effects of a glyburide/metformin combination preparation in type 2 diabetes mellitus.
BACKGROUND
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is characterized by both insulin deficiency and insulin resistance. Effective treatment often requires therapy directed at both abnormalities. Patients on monotherapy might benefit from a combination agent such as glyburide/metformin, which increases insulin secretion and reduces insulin resistance.


METHODS
All patients taking a glyburide/metformin preparation at the Carl T. Hayden VAMC were identified from pharmacy records. Patients with documented hemoglobin A values within 31 weeks prior and between 3 and 33 weeks after initiation of therapy (92 subjects) were examined.


RESULTS
Glyburide/metformin combination therapy reduced hemoglobin A levels from 0.087 to 0.083 (P < 0.06). Significant reductions were seen in those patients with initial levels higher than 0.08 (0.094 to 0.087; P < 0.01). No significant reductions were seen in those patients with initial levels lower than 0.08.


CONCLUSIONS
In patients on monotherapy or on dual oral therapy with inadequate control, changing to a glyburide/metformin combination preparation may improve glucose control.
Bokhari
Syed U
SU
Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona 85012, USA. syed.bokhari2@med.va.gov
Gopal
Usha M
UM
Duckworth
William C
WC
D001786:Blood Glucose / Q000378:metabolism; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004338:Drug Combinations; D005905:Glyburide / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006441:Hemoglobin A / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007328:Insulin / Q000378:metabolism; D007333:Insulin Resistance / Q000502:physiology; D008687:Metformin / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D001786:Blood Glucose; D004338:Drug Combinations; C417231:Glucovance; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents; D007328:Insulin; D006441:Hemoglobin A; D008687:Metformin; D005905:Glyburide