Matching articles for "metformin"
Empagliflozin (Jardiance) for Type 2 Diabetes in Children (online only)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 21, 2023; (Issue 1683)
The sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2)
inhibitor empagliflozin has been available for years
alone (Jardiance – Boehringer Ingelheim) and in
combination with metformin (Synjardy) to improve
glycemic...
The sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2)
inhibitor empagliflozin has been available for years
alone (Jardiance – Boehringer Ingelheim) and in
combination with metformin (Synjardy) to improve
glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Both
products have now been approved for use in children
≥10 years old. Empagliflozin is the second oral drug
to become available in the US for treatment of type
2 diabetes in children; metformin has been available
since 2000 for this indication. The injectable
glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists
liraglutide (Victoza) and extended-release exenatide
(Bydureon BCise) are also approved for use in children
≥10 years old.
COVID-19 Update: Metformin to Prevent Long Covid?
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 29, 2023; (Issue 1677)
Results from a double-blind trial suggest that off-label
use of the oral antihyperglycemic drug metformin
in patients with COVID-19 may decrease the risk
of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2...
Results from a double-blind trial suggest that off-label
use of the oral antihyperglycemic drug metformin
in patients with COVID-19 may decrease the risk
of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection
("long COVID").
In Brief: Semaglutide (Wegovy) for Weight Loss in Children
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 20, 2023; (Issue 1670)
The injectable glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)
receptor agonist semaglutide (Wegovy), which was
approved by the FDA in 2021 for chronic weight
management in adults, has now been approved for
chronic weight...
The injectable glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)
receptor agonist semaglutide (Wegovy), which was
approved by the FDA in 2021 for chronic weight
management in adults, has now been approved for
chronic weight management in children ≥12 years old
with an initial BMI in the ≥95th percentile for age and
sex.Semaglutide is also available as Ozempic and
Rybelsus for treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults.
In Brief: Finerenone (Kerendia) for Diabetic Kidney Disease
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 23, 2023; (Issue 1668)
Recently published guidelines from the American
Diabetes Association (ADA) and the Kidney Disease:
Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) Diabetes Work
Group recommend addition of the oral...
Recently published guidelines from the American
Diabetes Association (ADA) and the Kidney Disease:
Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) Diabetes Work
Group recommend addition of the oral nonsteroidal
mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA)
finerenone (Kerendia) to standard treatment in
patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney
disease (CKD).
Drugs for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 14, 2022; (Issue 1663)
Diet, exercise, and weight loss can improve glycemic
control, but almost all patients with type 2 diabetes
require antihyperglycemic drug therapy. Treating to
a target A1C of...
Diet, exercise, and weight loss can improve glycemic
control, but almost all patients with type 2 diabetes
require antihyperglycemic drug therapy. Treating to
a target A1C of <7% while minimizing hypoglycemia
is recommended to prevent microvascular complications
of diabetes (retinopathy, nephropathy, and
neuropathy). An A1C target of <8% may be appropriate
for some older patients.
Comparison Chart: SGLT2 Inhibitors (online only)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 16, 2020; (Issue 1611)
...
View the Comparison Chart: SGLT2 Inhibitors
Two New Doses of Dulaglutide (Trulicity) for Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 19, 2020; (Issue 1609)
The FDA has approved two additional doses (3 mg
and 4.5 mg) of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)
receptor agonist dulaglutide (Trulicity – Lilly) for
treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults. Dulaglutide...
The FDA has approved two additional doses (3 mg
and 4.5 mg) of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)
receptor agonist dulaglutide (Trulicity – Lilly) for
treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults. Dulaglutide has
been available in 0.75- and 1.5-mg doses for years.
In Brief: Trijardy XR - A New 3-Drug Combination for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 1, 2020; (Issue 1599)
The FDA has approved Trijardy XR (Boehringer Ingelheim/Lilly), a fixed-dose combination of the sodium-glucose
cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor empagliflozin, the
dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor...
The FDA has approved Trijardy XR (Boehringer Ingelheim/Lilly), a fixed-dose combination of the sodium-glucose
cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor empagliflozin, the
dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor linagliptin, and
extended-release metformin, for oral treatment of type 2
diabetes in adults. Empagliflozin and linagliptin have been
available in a fixed-dose combination as Glyxambi since
2015, and both have been available in 2-drug combinations
with extended-release metformin for years (see Table 1).
Drugs for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 4, 2019; (Issue 1584)
Diet, exercise, and weight loss can improve glycemic
control, but almost all patients with type 2 diabetes
eventually require drug therapy. Treating to a glycated
hemoglobin (A1C) concentration of...
Diet, exercise, and weight loss can improve glycemic
control, but almost all patients with type 2 diabetes
eventually require drug therapy. Treating to a glycated
hemoglobin (A1C) concentration of <7% can prevent
microvascular complications (retinopathy, nephropathy,
and neuropathy), but whether it prevents macrovascular
complications and death is unclear. An A1C target of
<8% may be appropriate for older patients and those
with underlying cardiovascular disease (CVD), a history
of severe hypoglycemia, diabetes-related complications,
a limited life expectancy, or a long duration of disease.
Oral Semaglutide (Rybelsus) for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 21, 2019; (Issue 1583)
An oral formulation of the glucagon-like peptide-1
(GLP-1) receptor agonist semaglutide (Rybelsus –
Novo Nordisk) has been approved by the FDA
for once-daily treatment of type 2 diabetes in
adults....
An oral formulation of the glucagon-like peptide-1
(GLP-1) receptor agonist semaglutide (Rybelsus –
Novo Nordisk) has been approved by the FDA
for once-daily treatment of type 2 diabetes in
adults. Semaglutide, which has been available in
a subcutaneously-injected formulation (Ozempic)
since 2017, is the first GLP-1 receptor agonist to
become available for oral administration; the 4 other
GLP-1 receptor agonists currently available in the US
are administered by subcutaneous (SC) injection.
Cardiovascular Benefits of SGLT2 Inhibitors and GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 25, 2019; (Issue 1566)
Since 2008, because of safety concerns, the FDA has
mandated that long-term cardiovascular outcomes trials
be conducted for all new drugs for type 2 diabetes.
Reductions in the incidence of macrovascular...
Since 2008, because of safety concerns, the FDA has
mandated that long-term cardiovascular outcomes trials
be conducted for all new drugs for type 2 diabetes.
Reductions in the incidence of macrovascular complications
in these trials with some sodium-glucose
co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and glucagon-like
peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists in patients at risk
for cardiovascular disease (see Table 1) have led to
new recommendations.
Ertugliflozin for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 23, 2018; (Issue 1545)
The FDA has approved the sodium-glucose co-transporter
2 (SGLT2) inhibitor ertugliflozin (Merck)
for treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes, both
alone (Steglatro) and in fixed-dose combinations
with...
The FDA has approved the sodium-glucose co-transporter
2 (SGLT2) inhibitor ertugliflozin (Merck)
for treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes, both
alone (Steglatro) and in fixed-dose combinations
with metformin (Segluromet) and sitagliptin
(Steglujan). Ertugliflozin is the fourth SGLT2 inhibitor
to be approved in the US. All four are available in
combination with metformin and three are available
in combination with a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4)
inhibitor (see Table 3).
Dapagliflozin/Saxagliptin (Qtern) for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 26, 2018; (Issue 1543)
The FDA has approved Qtern (AstraZeneca), a
fixed-dose combination of the sodium-glucose
co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor dapagliflozin
(Farxiga) and the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4)
inhibitor...
The FDA has approved Qtern (AstraZeneca), a
fixed-dose combination of the sodium-glucose
co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor dapagliflozin
(Farxiga) and the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4)
inhibitor saxagliptin (Onglyza), for oral treatment
of adults with type 2 diabetes. Dapagliflozin and
saxagliptin have each been available for years alone
and in combination with extended-release metformin
(Xigduo XR; Kombiglyze XR). Three SGLT2/DPP-4
inhibitor combinations are now available in the US
(see Table 2).
Semaglutide (Ozempic) - Another Injectable GLP-1 Receptor Agonist for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 29, 2018; (Issue 1539)
The FDA has approved semaglutide (Ozempic – Novo
Nordisk), a long-acting injectable GLP-1 (glucagon-like
peptide-1) receptor agonist, for once-weekly
treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes. It is the...
The FDA has approved semaglutide (Ozempic – Novo
Nordisk), a long-acting injectable GLP-1 (glucagon-like
peptide-1) receptor agonist, for once-weekly
treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes. It is the sixth
GLP-1 receptor agonist to be approved in the US.
Fiasp - Another Insulin Aspart Formulation for Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 1, 2018; (Issue 1537)
The FDA has approved Fiasp (Novo Nordisk), a new
formulation of insulin aspart, to improve glycemic
control in adults with diabetes. Fiasp is described by
the manufacturer as faster-acting than...
The FDA has approved Fiasp (Novo Nordisk), a new
formulation of insulin aspart, to improve glycemic
control in adults with diabetes. Fiasp is described by
the manufacturer as faster-acting than conventional
insulin aspart (Novolog).
Cardiovascular Effects of Some Antidiabetic Drugs
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 14, 2017; (Issue 1527)
For many years, the goal of drug therapy for most
patients with type 2 diabetes has been to achieve
and maintain an A1C of...
For many years, the goal of drug therapy for most
patients with type 2 diabetes has been to achieve
and maintain an A1C of <7%. Achieving that goal
can prevent microvascular complications (diabetic
retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy), but whether it
prevents macrovascular complications (myocardial
infarction [MI], stroke) has been less clear. The FDA
now requires that cardiovascular safety studies be
performed for all new drugs for type 2 diabetes.1
Recent findings that some of the newer second-line
drugs for type 2 diabetes have cardiovascular benefits
have led to new interest in the cardiovascular efficacy
and safety of all antidiabetic drugs.
Lixisenatide for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 30, 2017; (Issue 1513)
The FDA has approved lixisenatide (Sanofi), a short-acting
injectable GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1)
receptor agonist, for once-daily treatment of adults
with type 2 diabetes, both alone (Adlyxin) and in...
The FDA has approved lixisenatide (Sanofi), a short-acting
injectable GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1)
receptor agonist, for once-daily treatment of adults
with type 2 diabetes, both alone (Adlyxin) and in a
fixed-ratio combination with insulin glargine (Soliqua
100/33). Lixisenatide has been available since 2013 in
many other countries as Lyxumia. It is the fifth GLP-1
receptor agonist to be approved in the US.
Comparison Table: SGLT2 Inhibitors (online only)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 30, 2017; (Issue 1513)
...
View the Comparison Table: SGLT2 Inhibitors
Drugs for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 16, 2017; (Issue 1512)
The goal of drug therapy for type 2 diabetes is
to achieve and maintain a near-normal glycated
hemoglobin (A1C) concentration without inducing
hypoglycemia; the target is generally an A1C of
≤7%. Treating...
The goal of drug therapy for type 2 diabetes is
to achieve and maintain a near-normal glycated
hemoglobin (A1C) concentration without inducing
hypoglycemia; the target is generally an A1C of
≤7%. Treating to this target has been shown to
prevent microvascular complications (retinopathy,
nephropathy, and neuropathy), but whether it prevents
macrovascular outcomes is unclear. An A1C target of
<8% may be appropriate for older patients and those
with underlying cardiovascular disease, a history of
severe hypoglycemia, diabetes-related complications
or comorbidities, or a long duration of disease.
Metformin for Prediabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 7, 2016; (Issue 1507)
The oral biguanide metformin (Glucophage, and
others) is generally the drug of choice for initial
treatment of type 2 diabetes. It has also been used
to prevent or at least delay the onset of diabetes
in...
The oral biguanide metformin (Glucophage, and
others) is generally the drug of choice for initial
treatment of type 2 diabetes. It has also been used
to prevent or at least delay the onset of diabetes
in patients considered to be at high risk for the
disease. Recent guidelines recommend considering
use of metformin in patients with prediabetes
(fasting plasma glucose 100-125 mg/dL, 2-hr post-load
glucose 140-199 mg/dL, or A1C 5.7-6.4%),
especially in those who are <60 years old, have
a BMI >35 kg/m2, or have a history of gestational
diabetes. Metformin has not been approved for
such use by the FDA.
Jentadueto XR for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 1, 2016; (Issue 1500)
The FDA has approved Jentadueto XR (Boehringer
Ingelheim/Lilly), a once-daily extended-release formulation
of the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor
linagliptin and the biguanide metformin, for...
The FDA has approved Jentadueto XR (Boehringer
Ingelheim/Lilly), a once-daily extended-release formulation
of the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor
linagliptin and the biguanide metformin, for oral
treatment of type 2 diabetes. Linagliptin and metformin
have been available for years in a twice-daily immediate-release combination (Jentadueto). Once-daily
extended-release formulations combining metformin
with the DPP-4 inhibitors saxagliptin (Kombiglyze XR)
and sitagliptin (Janumet XR) are also available.
In Brief: New Recommendations for Use of Metformin in Renal Impairment
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 25, 2016; (Issue 1493)
The FDA has required labeling changes that replace serum creatinine (SCr) with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) as the parameter used to determine the appropriateness of treatment with the biguanide...
The FDA has required labeling changes that replace serum creatinine (SCr) with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) as the parameter used to determine the appropriateness of treatment with the biguanide metformin (Glucophage, and others) in patients with renal impairment. These changes will allow more patients with mild to moderate renal impairment to receive metformin, which is generally the first drug prescribed for treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Metformin was previously contraindicated in women with a SCr level ≥1.4 mg/dL and in men with a SCr level ≥1.5 mg/dL, but use of SCr as a surrogate indicator tends to underestimate renal function in certain populations (e.g., younger patients, men, black patients, patients with greater muscle mass). The calculation of eGFR takes into account age, race, and sex, as well as SCr level, providing a more accurate assessment of kidney function. A literature review summarized in an FDA Drug Safety Communication concluded that, based on eGFR, metformin is safe to use in patients with mild renal impairment and in some patients with moderate renal impairment.1
The eGFR should be calculated before patients begin treatment with metformin and at least annually thereafter. Metformin is now contraindicated in patients with an eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2, and starting treatment with the drug in patients with an eGFR between 30 and 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 is not recommended. If the eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 in a patient already taking metformin, the benefits and risks of continuing treatment should be assessed. Metformin should be not be administered for 48 hours after an iodinated contrast imaging procedure in patients with an eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or a history of liver disease, alcoholism, or heart failure, or in those receiving intra-arterial contrast, and the eGFR should be re-evaluated before treatment is restarted.
Download complete U.S. English article
Metformin was previously contraindicated in women with a SCr level ≥1.4 mg/dL and in men with a SCr level ≥1.5 mg/dL, but use of SCr as a surrogate indicator tends to underestimate renal function in certain populations (e.g., younger patients, men, black patients, patients with greater muscle mass). The calculation of eGFR takes into account age, race, and sex, as well as SCr level, providing a more accurate assessment of kidney function. A literature review summarized in an FDA Drug Safety Communication concluded that, based on eGFR, metformin is safe to use in patients with mild renal impairment and in some patients with moderate renal impairment.1
The eGFR should be calculated before patients begin treatment with metformin and at least annually thereafter. Metformin is now contraindicated in patients with an eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2, and starting treatment with the drug in patients with an eGFR between 30 and 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 is not recommended. If the eGFR falls below 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 in a patient already taking metformin, the benefits and risks of continuing treatment should be assessed. Metformin should be not be administered for 48 hours after an iodinated contrast imaging procedure in patients with an eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or a history of liver disease, alcoholism, or heart failure, or in those receiving intra-arterial contrast, and the eGFR should be re-evaluated before treatment is restarted.
- FDA Drug Safety Communication: FDA revises warnings regarding use of the diabetes medicine metformin in certain patients with reduced kidney function. Available at: www.fda.gov. Accessed April 14, 2016.
Download complete U.S. English article
Empagliflozin/Metformin (Synjardy) for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 21, 2015; (Issue 1484)
The FDA has approved Synjardy (Boehringer Ingelheim/Lilly), a fixed-dose combination of the sodium-glucose
co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor empagliflozin
(Jardiance) and metformin (Glucophage, and...
The FDA has approved Synjardy (Boehringer Ingelheim/Lilly), a fixed-dose combination of the sodium-glucose
co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor empagliflozin
(Jardiance) and metformin (Glucophage, and others),
for treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes not
adequately controlled on either of these drugs alone
or already being treated with both empagliflozin and
metformin. It is the third SGLT2 inhibitor/metformin
combination to be approved in the US.
Concentrated Insulin Glargine (Toujeo) for Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 11, 2015; (Issue 1468)
The FDA has approved Toujeo (Sanofi), a more
concentrated form of insulin glargine containing 300
IU/mL compared to the 100 IU/mL in Lantus (Sanofi).
Lantus is nearing the end of its patent protection in...
The FDA has approved Toujeo (Sanofi), a more
concentrated form of insulin glargine containing 300
IU/mL compared to the 100 IU/mL in Lantus (Sanofi).
Lantus is nearing the end of its patent protection in the
US, and biosimilars are expected to become available.
Glyxambi - A New Combination for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 27, 2015; (Issue 1467)
The FDA has approved Glyxambi (Boehringer
Ingelheim/Lilly), a fixed-dose combination of empagliflozin
(Jardiance) and linagliptin (Tradjenta), for oral
treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults. It is the...
The FDA has approved Glyxambi (Boehringer
Ingelheim/Lilly), a fixed-dose combination of empagliflozin
(Jardiance) and linagliptin (Tradjenta), for oral
treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults. It is the first
combination of a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2
(SGLT2) inhibitor and a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor to be approved in the US.
Diet, Drugs, and Surgery for Weight Loss
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 16, 2015; (Issue 1462)
Adults with a body mass index (BMI) between
25 and 29.9 kg/m2 are considered overweight. Those
with a BMI ≥30 are considered obese. Losing even
a small amount of weight and increasing physical
activity...
Adults with a body mass index (BMI) between
25 and 29.9 kg/m2 are considered overweight. Those
with a BMI ≥30 are considered obese. Losing even
a small amount of weight and increasing physical
activity can prevent some of the complications
of obesity, particularly type 2 diabetes. Diet and
exercise are the preferred methods for losing weight,
but long-term failure rates are high. Several drugs
have been approved by the FDA for weight reduction,
but adherence is poor, adverse effects are common,
and patients usually regain the lost weight when
the drug is stopped. Bariatric surgery can produce
substantial weight loss and significantly reduce
obesity-related comorbidities; long-term data on its
safety are encouraging, but still limited. Guidelines
for the management of overweight or obese adults
have recently been published.
Triumeq: A 3-Drug Combination for HIV
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 5, 2015; (Issue 1459)
The FDA has approved Triumeq (Viiv Healthcare),
a fixed-dose combination of the integrase strand
transfer inhibitor (INSTI) dolutegravir and the
nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs)
abacavir...
The FDA has approved Triumeq (Viiv Healthcare),
a fixed-dose combination of the integrase strand
transfer inhibitor (INSTI) dolutegravir and the
nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs)
abacavir and lamivudine, for once-daily treatment of
HIV-1 infection. Dolutegravir (Tivicay) was approved
as a single agent in 2013.
Invokamet and Xigduo XR - Two New Combinations for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 8, 2014; (Issue 1457)
The FDA has approved fixed-dose combinations of
metformin with either canagliflozin (Invokamet) or
dapagliflozin (Xigduo XR) for treatment of patients
with type 2 diabetes not adequately controlled
with any...
The FDA has approved fixed-dose combinations of
metformin with either canagliflozin (Invokamet) or
dapagliflozin (Xigduo XR) for treatment of patients
with type 2 diabetes not adequately controlled
with any one of these drugs, or in those already
being treated with both metformin and either
canagliflozin or dapagliflozin.
Two New GLP-1 Receptor Agonists for Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 10, 2014; (Issue 1455)
Two new injectable GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1)
receptor agonists, dulaglutide (Trulicity [trū li si tee] –
Lilly) and albiglutide (Tanzeum [tan' zee um] – GSK),
have been approved by the FDA for...
Two new injectable GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1)
receptor agonists, dulaglutide (Trulicity [trū li si tee] –
Lilly) and albiglutide (Tanzeum [tan' zee um] – GSK),
have been approved by the FDA for once-weekly
treatment of type 2 diabetes. Other available GLP-1
receptor agonists include exenatide, which is approved
for injection twice daily (Byetta) or once weekly
(Bydureon), and liraglutide (Victoza), which is injected
once daily.
Empagliflozin (Jardiance) for Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 13, 2014; (Issue 1453)
Empagliflozin (Jardiance – Boehringer Ingelheim/Lilly),
an SGLT2 inhibitor, has been approved by the FDA for
oral treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is the third SGLT2
inhibitor to be approved for this...
Empagliflozin (Jardiance – Boehringer Ingelheim/Lilly),
an SGLT2 inhibitor, has been approved by the FDA for
oral treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is the third SGLT2
inhibitor to be approved for this indication.
Dapagliflozin (Farxiga) for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 17, 2014; (Issue 1436)
Dapagliflozin (dap" a gli fl oe' zin; Farxiga – Bristol-Myers
Squibb/AstraZeneca), an SGLT2 (sodium-glucose co-transporter
2) inhibitor, has been approved by the FDA
for oral treatment of type 2 diabetes....
Dapagliflozin (dap" a gli fl oe' zin; Farxiga – Bristol-Myers
Squibb/AstraZeneca), an SGLT2 (sodium-glucose co-transporter
2) inhibitor, has been approved by the FDA
for oral treatment of type 2 diabetes. Dapagliflozin is the
second SGLT2 inhibitor to be approved for this indication;
canagliflozin (Invokana) was the first .
In Brief: Rosiglitazone (Avandia) Unbound
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 3, 2014; (Issue 1435)
The FDA has removed prescribing and dispensing restrictions placed on rosiglitazone (Avandia, and others) in 2010 because of concerns about its cardiovascular safety.1 The removal of restrictions was based on...
The FDA has removed prescribing and dispensing restrictions placed on rosiglitazone (Avandia, and others) in 2010 because of concerns about its cardiovascular safety.1 The removal of restrictions was based on the results of an independent reevaluation of the RECORD trial, which found no significant difference between rosiglitazone and metformin/sulfonylurea in the risk of cardiovascular (or unknown cause) death, myocardial infarction, or stroke.2
1. FDA Drug Safety Communication: FDA requires removal of some prescribing and dispensing restrictions for rosiglitazone-containing diabetes medicines. Available at www.fda.gov. Accessed January 27, 2014.
2. KW Mahaffey et al. Results of a reevaluation of cardiovascular outcomes in the RECORD trial. Am Heart J 2013; 166:240.
Download complete U.S. English article
1. FDA Drug Safety Communication: FDA requires removal of some prescribing and dispensing restrictions for rosiglitazone-containing diabetes medicines. Available at www.fda.gov. Accessed January 27, 2014.
2. KW Mahaffey et al. Results of a reevaluation of cardiovascular outcomes in the RECORD trial. Am Heart J 2013; 166:240.
Download complete U.S. English article
Topiramate Extended-Release (Trokendi XR) for Epilepsy
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 28, 2013; (Issue 1428)
The FDA has approved a once-daily extended-release
(ER) formulation of the antiepileptic topiramate (Trokendi
XR – Supernus) for initial monotherapy in patients ≥10
years old with partial onset seizures...
The FDA has approved a once-daily extended-release
(ER) formulation of the antiepileptic topiramate (Trokendi
XR – Supernus) for initial monotherapy in patients ≥10
years old with partial onset seizures or primary generalized
tonic-clonic seizures and for adjunctive therapy in
patients ≥6 years old with partial onset seizures, primary
generalized tonic-clonic seizures, or seizures associated
with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Topiramate has been
available for many years as an immediate-release (IR)
formulation (Topamax, and generics) for the same indications
in patients ≥2 years old
Alogliptin (Nesina) for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 27, 2013; (Issue 1417)
The FDA has approved the dipeptidyl peptidase-4
(DPP-4) inhibitor alogliptin (Nesina – Takeda) for treatment
of type 2 diabetes. In addition to the single-ingredient
product, the FDA also approved...
The FDA has approved the dipeptidyl peptidase-4
(DPP-4) inhibitor alogliptin (Nesina – Takeda) for treatment
of type 2 diabetes. In addition to the single-ingredient
product, the FDA also approved fixed-dose
combinations of alogliptin/metformin (Kazano) and
alogliptin/pioglitazone (Oseni) for the same indication.
Alogliptin is the fourth DPP-4 inhibitor to become available
in the US. The other three – saxagliptin (Onglyza),
sitagliptin (Januvia), and linagliptin (Tradjenta) – are also
available in fixed-dose combinations with metformin.
Canagliflozin (Invokana) for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 13, 2013; (Issue 1416)
Canagliflozin (kan" a gli floe' zin; Invokana – Janssen),
a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor,
has been approved by the FDA for oral treatment of
type 2...
Canagliflozin (kan" a gli floe' zin; Invokana – Janssen),
a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor,
has been approved by the FDA for oral treatment of
type 2 diabetes.
Tablet Splitting
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 6, 2012; (Issue 1396)
Breaking drug tablets in half is a common practice. Since our last article on this subject, some new data
have become...
Breaking drug tablets in half is a common practice. Since our last article on this subject, some new data
have become available.
Addendum: What Comes After Metformin for Type 2 Diabetes?
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 6, 2012; (Issue 1396)
Several readers have raised questions about the statement in our recent article (Med Lett Drugs Ther 2012; 54:58) that long-acting insulins, like metformin and sulfonylureas, have been shown to decrease...
Several readers have raised questions about the statement in our recent article (Med Lett Drugs Ther 2012; 54:58) that long-acting insulins, like metformin and sulfonylureas, have been shown to decrease long-term cardiovascular risk. Our statement was based on the extension of the UKPDS (RR Holman et al, N Engl J Med 2008; 359:1577), which is the longest prospective trial of drug therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes. Shorter studies in older patients with long-standing diabetes did not find a reduction in cardiovascular risk with these and other drugs (The Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Study Group. N Engl J Med 2008; 358:2545; The ADVANCE Collaborative Group. N Engl J Med 2008; 358:2560; W Duckworth et al. N Engl J Med 2009; 360:129).
Download complete U.S. English article
Download complete U.S. English article
What Comes After Metformin for Type 2 Diabetes?
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 23, 2012; (Issue 1395)
Most experts agree that lifestyle modifications and
metformin (Glucophage, and others) should be used
first to treat patients with type 2 diabetes. If metformin
alone fails to control hyperglycemia, there...
Most experts agree that lifestyle modifications and
metformin (Glucophage, and others) should be used
first to treat patients with type 2 diabetes. If metformin
alone fails to control hyperglycemia, there is
no general agreement on which drug should be
added next. A recent article in The Medical Letter
offered some support for a sulfonylurea. Three
recent trials published in The Lancet favored the
long-acting basal insulin glargine, the glucagon-like
peptide (GLP-1) analog exenatide, and the dipeptidyl
peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor linagliptin, respectively.
Some of the advantages and disadvantages of
these and other available agents are listed in Table 1
on the opposite page.
Linagliptin/Metformin (Jentadueto) for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 14, 2012; (Issue 1390)
Linagliptin (Tradjenta) and metformin (Glucophage,
and others) are now available as a fixed-dose combination
(Jentadueto – Boehringer Ingelheim/Lilly) for
oral treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults....
Linagliptin (Tradjenta) and metformin (Glucophage,
and others) are now available as a fixed-dose combination
(Jentadueto – Boehringer Ingelheim/Lilly) for
oral treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults. Metformin
is generally the preferred first-line agent for treatment
of type 2 diabetes, but most patients eventually
require treatment with multiple drugs. Linagliptin is
a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DDP-4) inhibitor like
sitagliptin (Januvia) and saxagliptin (Onglyza). Both
sitagliptin and saxagliptin are also available in fixed-dose
combinations with metformin.
Sitagliptin and Simvastatin (Juvisync)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 14, 2011; (Issue 1377)
The FDA has approved Juvisync (Merck), a fixed-dose
combination of the antihyperglycemic DPP-4 inhibitor
sitagliptin (Januvia) and the HMG-CoA reductase
inhibitor simvastatin (Zocor, and...
The FDA has approved Juvisync (Merck), a fixed-dose
combination of the antihyperglycemic DPP-4 inhibitor
sitagliptin (Januvia) and the HMG-CoA reductase
inhibitor simvastatin (Zocor, and others).
Drugs for Ovulation Induction
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • October 31, 2011; (Issue 1376)
Infertility occurs in about 15% of couples. About one-third
of cases are due to problems with ovulation or other
female factors, another third are due to a male infertility
factor, and the remaining third...
Infertility occurs in about 15% of couples. About one-third
of cases are due to problems with ovulation or other
female factors, another third are due to a male infertility
factor, and the remaining third are unexplained. In older
women, unexplained infertility is probably caused by
diminished quality and quantity of oocytes. The first
approach to treatment of female-factor infertility generally
is the use of drugs that stimulate oocyte production.
Drugs for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 1, 2011; (Issue 108)
The development of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes
results from a combination of metabolic abnormalities
that includes insulin resistance, diminished
insulin secretion and excess hepatic glucose...
The development of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes
results from a combination of metabolic abnormalities
that includes insulin resistance, diminished
insulin secretion and excess hepatic glucose production.
Diet, exercise and weight loss are helpful in
improving glucose control, but most patients ultimately
require drug therapy.
Linagliptin (Tradjenta) - A New DPP-4 Inhibitor for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 27, 2011; (Issue 1367)
Linagliptin (Tradjenta – Boehringer Ingelheim/Lilly), a
third oral dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) enzyme
inhibitor, was recently approved by the FDA for treatment
of type 2 diabetes, either alone or in...
Linagliptin (Tradjenta – Boehringer Ingelheim/Lilly), a
third oral dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) enzyme
inhibitor, was recently approved by the FDA for treatment
of type 2 diabetes, either alone or in combination
with metformin, a sulfonylurea or pioglitazone
Diet, Drugs and Surgery for Weight Loss
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 1, 2011; (Issue 104)
...
Adults with a body mass index (BMI=kg/m2) of 25-<30 are considered overweight; those with a BMI of ≥30 are considered obese.
Liraglutide (Victoza) for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 5, 2010; (Issue 1335)
Liraglutide (Victoza – Novo Nordisk), a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist given by subcutaneous
injection, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes. It can...
Liraglutide (Victoza – Novo Nordisk), a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist given by subcutaneous
injection, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes. It can be used alone or in addition to oral antidiabetic drugs such as metformin (Glucophage, and others) or glimepiride (Amaryl, and others). Liraglutide is not recommended for first-line therapy and is not approved for use with insulin.
Rosiglitazone (Avandia) Revisited
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 8, 2010; (Issue 1333)
The cardiovascular safety of the thiazolidinedione rosiglitazone (Avandia – GlaxoSmithKline) is in the news again, with some authorities calling for its removal from the market (New York Times, February 19,...
The cardiovascular safety of the thiazolidinedione rosiglitazone (Avandia – GlaxoSmithKline) is in the news again, with some authorities calling for its removal from the market (New York Times, February 19, 2010).
Saxagliptin (Onglyza) for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 2, 2009; (Issue 1324)
Saxagliptin (Onglyza - Bristol-Myers Squibb), the second oral dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor to be marketed in the US, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of adults with type 2...
Saxagliptin (Onglyza - Bristol-Myers Squibb), the second oral dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor to be marketed in the US, has been approved by the FDA for treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes.
Tablet Splitting
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 10, 2009; (Issue 1318)
Readers have asked us to update our 2004 article on tablet splitting. Breaking drug tablets in half is a common practice, but the FDA recently advised consumers against it (FDA Consumer Health Information, July...
Readers have asked us to update our 2004 article on tablet splitting. Breaking drug tablets in half is a common practice, but the FDA recently advised consumers against it (FDA Consumer Health Information, July 2009).
Metformin/Repaglinide (PrandiMet) for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 1, 2009; (Issue 1313)
A new fixed-dose tablet (PrandiMet - Novo Nordisk) combining metformin (Glucophage, and others) and repaglinide (Prandin) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of type 2 diabetes in patients already taking...
A new fixed-dose tablet (PrandiMet - Novo Nordisk) combining metformin (Glucophage, and others) and repaglinide (Prandin) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of type 2 diabetes in patients already taking both metformin and repaglinide, or for patients not adequately controlled on either drug alone.
Drugs for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • July 1, 2008; (Issue 71)
The development of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes results from a combination of metabolic abnormalities including insulin resistance, diminished insulin secretion and excess hepatic glucose production. Diet,...
The development of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes results from a combination of metabolic abnormalities including insulin resistance, diminished insulin secretion and excess hepatic glucose production. Diet, exercise and weight loss are helpful in improving glucose control, but most patients ultimately require drug therapy.
In Brief: A New Indication for Colesevelam (Welchol)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 5, 2008; (Issue 1285)
Colesevelam (Welchol - Daiichi Sankyo - Med Lett Drugs Ther 2000; 42:102), a bile-acid sequestrant used to lower LDL cholesterol, has been approved by the FDA as an adjunct to diet and exercise in the treatment...
Colesevelam (Welchol - Daiichi Sankyo - Med Lett Drugs Ther 2000; 42:102), a bile-acid sequestrant used to lower LDL cholesterol, has been approved by the FDA as an adjunct to diet and exercise in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. In unpublished studies summarized in the package insert, patients with type 2 diabetes taking metformin (Glucophage, and others), a sulfonylurea or insulin (each as either monotherapy or in combination with other anti-diabetic agents) were given colesevelam 3800 mg per day or placebo; colesevelam significantly reduced glycosylated hemoglobin (A1c) by about 0.5% more than placebo in all three trials. The mechanism is unclear.
Colesevelam can cause constipation, nausea and dyspepsia, increase serum triglyceride concentrations, and interfere with absorption of other oral drugs. One month's treatment with Welchol obtained from drugstore.com would cost about $200. Medical Letter consultants are not enthusiastic about prescribing it for this indication.
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Colesevelam can cause constipation, nausea and dyspepsia, increase serum triglyceride concentrations, and interfere with absorption of other oral drugs. One month's treatment with Welchol obtained from drugstore.com would cost about $200. Medical Letter consultants are not enthusiastic about prescribing it for this indication.
Download U.S. English
Diet, Drugs and Surgery for Weight Loss
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 1, 2008; (Issue 68)
Losing even a small amount of weight and increasing physical activity can prevent some of the complications of obesity, particularly type 2 diabetes. Diet and exercise are the preferred methods for losing...
Losing even a small amount of weight and increasing physical activity can prevent some of the complications of obesity, particularly type 2 diabetes. Diet and exercise are the preferred methods for losing weight but are associated with high long-term failure rates. Drugs may help some patients, but all currently available drugs for weight reduction have drawbacks. Gastric surgery can produce marked weight loss in the severely obese, but long-term data on safety are limited.
Sitagliptin/Metformin (Janumet) for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 4, 2007; (Issue 1262)
Sitagliptin (Januvia) and metformin (Glucophage, and others) are now available in a single tablet (Janumet - Merck) for treatment of type 2 diabetes. The combination is approved by the FDA for use in patients...
Sitagliptin (Januvia) and metformin (Glucophage, and others) are now available in a single tablet (Janumet - Merck) for treatment of type 2 diabetes. The combination is approved by the FDA for use in patients not adequately controlled by sitagliptin or meformin alone or in those already taking both drugs. Metformin is also available in combination with the thiazolidinediones pioglitazone and rosiglitazone and with the sulfonylureas glipizide and glyburide.
Pioglitazone/Metformin (Actoplus met)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • January 30, 2006; (Issue 1227)
For patients with diabetes poorly controlled with a single oral drug, addition of a second drug with a different mechanism can be helpful. A fixed-dose combination (Actoplus met - Takeda) of two widely used...
For patients with diabetes poorly controlled with a single oral drug, addition of a second drug with a different mechanism can be helpful. A fixed-dose combination (Actoplus met - Takeda) of two widely used antihyperglycemic drugs, the thiazolidinedione pioglitazone (Actos) and the biguanide metformin (Glucophage, and others), has been approved by the FDA for management of type 2 diabetes. It is indicated for patients already being treated with both pioglitazone and metformin or as second-line therapy for those not adequately controlled with either metformin or pioglitazone alone. Rosiglitazone, another thiazolidinedione, is also available in a fixed-dose combination with metformin (Avandamet).
Drugs for Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 1, 2005; (Issue 36)
The development of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes results from a combination of metabolic abnormalities including insulin resistance, excess hepatic glucose production and diminished insulin secretion. In...
The development of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes results from a combination of metabolic abnormalities including insulin resistance, excess hepatic glucose production and diminished insulin secretion. In many patients, diet and regular exercise can improve glucose control. Most drugs currently available for management of type 2 diabetes increase insulin supply (sulfonylureas, other secretagogues and insulin itself), decrease insulin resistance (thiazolidinediones) or improve the effectiveness of insulin (biguanides). Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors reduce the rate of glucose absorption. Newer agents such as pramlintide (Symlin) and exenatide (Byetta) have multiple effects to increase satiety and reduce postprandial hyperglycemia.
Exenatide (Byetta) for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 6, 2005; (Issue 1210)
Exenatide injection (Byetta - Amylin/Lilly), a synthetic peptide that stimulates release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells, has been approved by the FDA as adjunctive therapy for patients with type 2...
Exenatide injection (Byetta - Amylin/Lilly), a synthetic peptide that stimulates release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells, has been approved by the FDA as adjunctive therapy for patients with type 2 diabetes who have not achieved optimal glycemic control on metformin (Glucophage, and others), a sulfonylurea, such as glyburide (DiaBeta, and others), or both. Exenatide is not indicated for use with insulin.
Trospium (Sanctura): Another Anticholinergic for Overactive Bladder
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 2, 2004; (Issue 1188)
Trospium chloride (Sanctura - Indevus/Odyssey) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of overactive bladder with symptoms of urge urinary incontinence, urgency and urinary frequency. It has been available...
Trospium chloride (Sanctura - Indevus/Odyssey) has been approved by the FDA for treatment of overactive bladder with symptoms of urge urinary incontinence, urgency and urinary frequency. It has been available in Europe for many years.
Diet, Drugs and Surgery for Weight Loss
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 1, 2003; (Issue 16)
The latest definitions of overweight and obesity are based on body mass index (BMI). The BMI is calculated by dividing the weight in kilograms by the square of the height in meters (kg/m2). More than half of...
The latest definitions of overweight and obesity are based on body mass index (BMI). The BMI is calculated by dividing the weight in kilograms by the square of the height in meters (kg/m2). More than half of American adults are considered overweight with a BMI of ≥25, and about one third are obese with a BMI of ≥30. All ages seem to be affected; the proportion of children and adolescents who are overweight has more than doubled in the past 25 years. There is no lack of effort to treat obesity: drugs, diets and programs to change lifestyle are the basis for a large and flourishing industry. The frequent failure of diet and drug treatment sometimes leads to recommendations for surgery, usually restricted to those with a BMI ≥40.
Insulin-Sensitizing Drugs for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 28, 2003; (Issue 1155)
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), an endocrine abnormality characterized by hyperandrogenism and anovulation, affects 5-10% of women of reproductive age in the US. It is often accompanied by obesity and insulin...
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), an endocrine abnormality characterized by hyperandrogenism and anovulation, affects 5-10% of women of reproductive age in the US. It is often accompanied by obesity and insulin resistance. In recent years, antidiabetic drugs, although not approved for such use by the FDA, have been tried for treatment of this disorder. This review describes the effectiveness of metformin and the thiazolidinediones in women with PCOS. Also included is a dosage and cost table for some insulin-sensitizing drugs.
Metaglip and Avandamet for Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • December 23, 2002; (Issue 1146)
Two new fixed-dose combinations are now available for management of type 2 diabetes. Metaglip (Bristol-Myers Squibb), a combination of metformin and glipizide, is approved for initial therapy or as second-line...
Two new fixed-dose combinations are now available for management of type 2 diabetes. Metaglip (Bristol-Myers Squibb), a combination of metformin and glipizide, is approved for initial therapy or as second-line treatment when control is not adequate on metformin or a sulfonylurea alone. Avandamet (GlaxoSmithKline), a combination of metformin and rosiglitazone, is approved by the FDA only as second-line therapy for patients who are not well controlled on metformin alone, or are already taking both metformin and rosiglitazone. Glucovance (Bristol-Myers Squibb), a combination of metformin and glyburide, a sulfonylurea similar to glipizide, has been available since 2000 (Medical Letter 2000; 42:105).
Drugs for Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • September 1, 2002; (Issue 1)
The development of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes results from a combination of metabolic abnormalities including insulin resistance, excess hepatic glucose production and diminished insulin secretion. Most...
The development of hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes results from a combination of metabolic abnormalities including insulin resistance, excess hepatic glucose production and diminished insulin secretion. Most drugs currently available for management of type 2 diabetes fall into 2 categories: those that increase insulin supply (sulfonylureas, other secretagogues and insulin itself) and those that decrease insulin resistance or improve its effectiveness (biguanides, thiazolidinediones). Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors reduce the rate of glucose absorption.
Nateglinide For Type 2 Diabetes
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 2, 2001; (Issue 1101)
...
Nateglinide (Starlix), a new meglitinide oral glucose-lowering agent, has been approved by the FDA.
Direct-to-consumer Advertisements For Glucophage XR
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • March 19, 2001; (Issue 1100)
Full-page newspaper advertisements addressed to patients with type 2 diabetes are promoting the convenience of "NEW once-a-day Glucophage XR (metformin HCl extended-release tablets),"and offering a coupon for a...
Full-page newspaper advertisements addressed to patients with type 2 diabetes are promoting the convenience of "NEW once-a-day Glucophage XR (metformin HCl extended-release tablets),"and offering a coupon for a free 30-day supply in the month of March.
Bexarotene (Targretin) For Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • April 3, 2000; (Issue 1075)
Bexarotene, a retinoid analog, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for oral treatment of dermatologic manifestations of refractory cutaneous T-cell...
Bexarotene, a retinoid analog, has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for oral treatment of dermatologic manifestations of refractory cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.
Pioglitazone (Actos)
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • November 19, 1999; (Issue 1066)
Pioglitazone is the third thiazolidinedione ("glitazone") to be marketed in the USA for treatment of type 2 diabetes. Thiazolidinediones decrease resistance to...
Pioglitazone is the third thiazolidinedione ("glitazone") to be marketed in the USA for treatment of type 2 diabetes. Thiazolidinediones decrease resistance to insulin.
Rosiglitazone for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • August 13, 1999; (Issue 1059)
Rosiglitazone, the second thiazolidinedione derivative to be marketed in the USA for treatment of type 2 diabetes, has been approved by the FDA for use either alone or combined with...
Rosiglitazone, the second thiazolidinedione derivative to be marketed in the USA for treatment of type 2 diabetes, has been approved by the FDA for use either alone or combined with meformin.
Miglitol for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 21, 1999; (Issue 1053)
Miglitol, an oral alpha-glucosidase inhibitor similar to acarbase, is now available for treatment of type 2...
Miglitol, an oral alpha-glucosidase inhibitor similar to acarbase, is now available for treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Repaglinide for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 22, 1998; (Issue 1027)
Repaglinide (Prandin - Novo Nordisk) is a new oral glucose-lowering agent for treating type 2 diabetes (formerly called non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus or NIDDM). It has been approved by the FDA for...
Repaglinide (Prandin - Novo Nordisk) is a new oral glucose-lowering agent for treating type 2 diabetes (formerly called non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus or NIDDM). It has been approved by the FDA for monotherapy or for use in combination with metformin.
Midodrine for Orthostatic Hypotension
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • June 20, 1997; (Issue 1003)
Midodrine hydrochloride (ProAmatine - Roberts), an alpha1-selective adrenergic agonist, is now available for treatment of severe symptomatic orthostatic hypotension. Other treatments for this condition...
Midodrine hydrochloride (ProAmatine - Roberts), an alpha1-selective adrenergic agonist, is now available for treatment of severe symptomatic orthostatic hypotension. Other treatments for this condition include other sympathomimetics, constrictive garments, erythropoietin (Epogen; Procrit) and fludrocortisone with salt (D Robertson and TL Davis, Neurology, 45 suppl 5: S26, 1995).
Troglitazone for Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 23, 1997; (Issue 1001)
Troglitazone (Rezulin - Parke-Davis), the first of a new class of thiazolidinedione derivatives ('glitazones') for diabetes, has been marketed for oral treatment of noninsulin- dependent diabetes mellitus...
Troglitazone (Rezulin - Parke-Davis), the first of a new class of thiazolidinedione derivatives ('glitazones') for diabetes, has been marketed for oral treatment of noninsulin- dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) in patients who take more than 30 units of insulin daily and still have a glycosylated hemoglobin concentration (HbA1c) of 8.5% or higher.
Glimepiride for NIDDM
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • May 24, 1996; (Issue 975)
Glimepiride (Amaryl - Hoechst Marion Roussel), a new sulfonylurea similar to glyburide and glipizide (Medical Letter, 26:79, 1984), was recently marketed for treatment of patients with non-insulin-dependent...
Glimepiride (Amaryl - Hoechst Marion Roussel), a new sulfonylurea similar to glyburide and glipizide (Medical Letter, 26:79, 1984), was recently marketed for treatment of patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) not controlled by diet and exercise. The new drug is the first sulfonylurea approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use concurrently with insulin.
Acarbose for Diabetes Mellitus
The Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics • February 2, 1996; (Issue 967)
Acarbose (Precose -Bayer), an oral alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that has been available in Europe for several years, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of...
Acarbose (Precose -Bayer), an oral alpha-glucosidase inhibitor that has been available in Europe for several years, was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM).