Are analogue insulins superior to human insulin in clinical practice?
Insulin analogues were designed to provide more physiologic pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties compared with human insulin. This article examines the literature over a 2-year period, focusing on studies directly comparing analogue and human insulin in controlled clinical trials and large observational studies documenting the introduction of, or change to, analogue insulin in clinical practice. Findings indicate that analogues provide objective benefits that include improved glycemic control, lower risk of hypoglycemia, lower glucose variability, and (for insulin detemir) reduced weight gain. Recent data with analogues also explore their safety and efficacy in special patient groups such as children and adolescents. These data complement increasing evidence that analogues offer improved acceptability and accessibility to people with diabetes.
Freeman
Jeffrey S
JS
Division of Endocrinology of the Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Suite 324, Philadelphia, PA 19131-1626, USA. jeffreyfreemando@aol.com
D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006801:Humans; D007328:Insulin / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000494:pharmacology*; D049528:Insulin, Long-Acting / Q000494:pharmacology; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D007328:Insulin; D049528:Insulin, Long-Acting