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A heart-healthy diabetic medication: Can this be true?
The New England Journal of Medicine reports in their article, Saxagliptin and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes, reports a randomized study on the effects of Onglyza (Saxagliptin) in diabetic patients with a history of established vascular disease. The study was conducted over a period of 2 years in 16,500 Type 2 diabetic patients from 26 countries.
One group was given Onglyza (Saxagliptin) 5 mg orally (2.5 for patients with renal insufficiency), and the other group was given a placebo pill. The results of this study yield exciting news for diabetics seeking to control their blood glucose levels and promote cardiovascular health.
Findings reveal the anti-hyperglycemic drug Onglyza neither reduced nor increased the risk of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or ischemic stroke. The New England Journal of Medicine also mentions how Onglyza improved glycemic control and reduced the development of microalbuminuria (albumin in the urine). Individuals taking Onglyza did have an increased risk of hospitalization related to heart failure, and also reported more hypoglycemic events than the placebo group.
According to The New England Journal of Medicine, the majority of patients with diabetes die from cardiovascular disease. Some physicians argue that more time is needed to determine if the benefits reported in this study truly benefits such patients. On the other hand, many healthcare providers are optimistic with the findings and excited to announce this breakthrough as an alternative anti-hyperglycemic medication for Type 2 diabetics.
If proven to be effective, this is a great option for diabetic individuals with underlying cardiovascular diseases. Great caution should be taken if you have a history of heart failure and hypoglycemic episodes. Always make sure to consult with your physician before taking any new medications.
*The information discussed in this article is for educational purposes only. Please consult with your health care provider prior to putting any suggestions into practice.
Yeneilyn is a Registered Nurse in the state of Florida since 2006. Her nursing practice began in the field of Cardiology at Mount Sinai Medical Hospital and expanded to care for clients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). She was provided the opportunity as LPN Instructor, which changed the course of her nursing career. She states, “Teaching nursing students expanded my view on positive influences nurses contribute beyond beside care. Nurses are central leaders in health education, client advocacy, and disease prevention.” Currently, Yeneilyn writes health articles and prepares Continuing Education (C.E.) courses for healthcare professionals. She continues her studies in the field of Nursing Education and evidenced-based nursing practice. In her free time she enjoys sharing time with family and friends.
For questions or topics of interest contact Nurse Yenny at: nurseyenny@gmail.com