New research from scientists at Northwestern University has raised serious concerns about the safety of two common drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes.
These medications, called sulfonylureas and basal insulin, have been linked to a higher risk of heart problems like heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and even amputations.
Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body cannot properly use insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. Doctors usually start treatment with a drug called metformin. Metformin is well-known and trusted for its safety and ability to control blood sugar.
But some people cannot take metformin or need more help to control their blood sugar levels. In these cases, doctors turn to other drugs, often choosing sulfonylureas or basal insulin.
This study from Northwestern University is the first to compare how six different second-line diabetes drugs affect heart health. The researchers looked at real-world data from over 130,000 patients with type 2 diabetes who had to start a second medication after metformin. What they found was concerning.
People taking sulfonylureas were 36% more likely to have serious heart problems compared to those who were taking newer drugs called DPP-4 inhibitors. Even more worrying, patients taking basal insulin had double the risk of these problems.
These heart issues include heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, and amputations. Since around 60% of patients on second-line treatment are given either sulfonylureas or basal insulin, this could affect millions of people.
Why are these drugs still so commonly used? One major reason is cost. Sulfonylureas and basal insulin are much cheaper than newer medications. Many patients and healthcare systems choose them to save money. However, this study suggests that the health risks might outweigh the cost savings.
The researchers recommend that doctors look at newer and safer options like GLP-1 agonists (such as liraglutide), SGLT-2 inhibitors (such as empagliflozin), or DPP-4 inhibitors (like sitagliptin). These newer medications are linked with better heart safety.
This study is especially important because it is based on real-life patient data, not just lab results or clinical trials comparing drugs to placebos. It provides strong evidence that the risks linked to sulfonylureas and basal insulin are real and should not be ignored.
Dr. Matthew O’Brien, who led the study, says the findings should make both doctors and patients think carefully about which medications to choose after metformin.
Managing blood sugar is very important, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of heart health. People with diabetes should talk to their doctors about the best and safest options for their treatment.
The study was published in the journal JAMA Network Open and could lead to major changes in how type 2 diabetes is treated around the world.
If you care about diabetes, please read studies about How to choosing the right fruits for type 2 diabetes and findings of New higher dose diabetes drug promises better blood sugar control and weight loss.
For more about diabetes, please read studies about The hidden connection between cancer and diabetes uncovered and findings of Scientists find the best way to help people with diabetes lose weight.
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