Evolution of Guideline Recommendations on Insulin Therapy in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Over the Last Two Decades: A Narrative Review.

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus has been increasing worldwide. As the therapeutic options for type 2 diabetes mellitus have evolved over the last 2 decades, national and global guidelines related to type 2 diabetes mellitus pharmacotherapy issued by various organizations have tended to vary in their recommendations. This narrative review aimed to analyze the key recommendations by major global and national guidelines on the initiation of insulin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus over the last 20 years. Strategies for insulin therapy for titration and intensification were also assessed. All guidelines recommend initiation of insulin (basal/ premixed/other formulations) when glycemic targets are not achieved despite lifestyle measures and oral antidiabetic drugs. In the recent decade, early initiation of insulin has been recommended when the glycated hemoglobin levels are >10% or blood glucose levels are ≥300 mg/dL (16.7 mmol/L). Initiation is recommended at a dose of 10 units or 0.1-0.2 U/kg. Titration is advised to achieve the optimal dosage, while intensification is recommended when glycemic targets are not achieved despite titrating to an acceptable level. Glucose monitoring at periodic intervals is recommended for adequate glycemic control. The guidelines further suggest that the choice of insulin should be individualized, considering the clinical status of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The physicians as well as patients should be a part of the decisions made regarding the therapeutic choice of regimen, preparation, and delivery device.

Asian Best Practices for Care of Diabetes in Elderly (ABCDE).

The elderly population with diabetes is diverse with the majority experiencing a decline in physical and mental capabilities, impacting the entire diabetes management process. Therefore, a need for geriatric-specific guidelines, especially for the Asian population, was identified and subsequently developed by an expert panel across government and private institutions from several Asian countries. The panel considered clinical evidence (landmark trials, position papers, expert opinions), recommendations from several important societies along with their decades of clinical experience and expertise, while meticulously devising thorough geriatric-specific tailored management strategies. The creation of the ABCDE best practices document underscores and explores the gaps and challenges and determines optimal methods for diabetes management of the elderly population in the Asian region.

Thymic endocrinology Part-1.

The concept of thymic endocrinology describes a bidirectional effect: the thymic hormones which circulate and significantly affect the immunomodulatory function of the body and the action of the other hormones derived from the pituitary, adrenal, gonads and thyroid gland on the thymocytes, thymic epithelial cells and the thymic stromal cells. Apart from this there is also an extensive paracrine and autocrine endocrine signal network within the Intra-thymic environment involving interleukins and thymic peptides. This review attempts to delve into the understanding of this intrinsic relationship between the thymus gland and the endocrine system at large.

Real-World Clinical Experience on the Usage of High-Dose Metformin (1500-2500 mg/day) in Type 2 Diabetes Management.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and clinical effectiveness and safety of high doses of metformin (1500-2500 mg/day) in Indian adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective, multicentric (n = 241), real-world study included patients with T2DM (aged >18 years) receiving high doses of metformin. Details were retrieved from patient's medical records. RESULTS: Out of 5695 patients, 62.7% were men with median age was 50.0 years. Hypertension (67.5%) and dyslipidemia (48.7%) were the prevalent comorbidities. Doses of 2000 mg (57.4%) and 1500 mg (29.1%) were the most commonly used doses of metformin and median duration of high-dose metformin therapy was 24.0 months. Metformin twice daily was the most frequently used dosage pattern (94.2%). Up-titration of doses was done in 96.8% of patients. The mean HbA1c levels were significantly decreased post-treatment (mean change: 1.08%; P < .001). The target glycemic control was achieved in 91.2% patients. A total of 83.0% had decreased weight. Adverse events were reported in 156 patients. Physician global evaluation of efficacy and tolerability showed majority of patients on a good to excellent scale (98.2% and 97.7%). CONCLUSION: Clinical effectiveness and safety of a high-dose metformin was demonstrated through significant improvement in HbA1c levels and weight reduction.

Consensus on Medical Nutrition Therapy for Diabesity (CoMeND) in Adults: A South Asian Perspective.

Diabetes and obesity are both increasing at a fast pace and giving rise to a new epidemic called diabesity. Lifestyle interventions including diet play a major role in the treatment of diabetes, obesity and diabesity. There are many guidelines on dietary management of diabetes or obesity globally and also from South Asia. However, there are no global or South Asian guidelines on the non-pharmacological management of diabesity. South Asia differs from the rest of the world as South Asians have different phenotype, cooking practices, food resources and exposure, medical nutrition therapy (MNT) practices, and availability of trained specialists. Therefore, South Asia needs its own guidelines for non-pharmacological management of diabesity in adults. The aim of the Consensus on Medical Nutrition Therapy for Diabesity (CoMeND) in Adults: A South Asian Perspective is to recommend therapeutic and preventive MNT in the South-Asians with diabesity.

Diabetes Insipidus: A Pragmatic Approach to Management.

Diabetes insipidus (DI) is a disorder of water balance characterized by polyuria and polydipsia. It can occur due to genetic and acquired causes that affect the secretion or action of arginine vasopressin (AVP) or antidiuretic hormone (ADH).Markedly increased thirst and urination are not only quite distressing but also increases the risk of volume depletion and hypernatremia in severe situations. A careful diagnosis of the type of DI and its etiology is based on careful clinical evaluation, measurement of urine and serum osmolality, and water deprivation test. Management includes the correction of any water deficit and the use of specific pharmacological agents, including desmopressin, thiazides, and amiloride.

Clinical practice recommendations for the detection and management of hyperglycemia in pregnancy from South Asia, Africa and Mexico during COVID-19 pandemic.

The human coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected overall healthcare delivery, including prenatal, antenatal and postnatal care. Hyperglycemia in pregnancy (HIP) is the most common medical condition encountered during pregnancy. There is little guidance for primary care physicians for providing delivery of optimal perinatal care while minimizing the risk of COVID-19 infection in pregnant women. This review aims to describe pragmatic modifications in the screening, detection and management of HIP during the COVID- 19 pandemic. In this review, articles published up to June 2021 were searched on multiple databases, including PubMed, Medline, EMBASE and ScienceDirect. Direct online searches were conducted to identify national and international guidelines. Search criteria included terms to extract articles describing HIP with and/or without COVID-19 between 1st March 2020 and 15th June 2021. Fasting plasma glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and random plasma glucose could be alternative screening strategies for gestational diabetes mellitus screening (at 24-28 weeks of gestation), instead of the traditional 2 h oral glucose tolerance test. The use of telemedicine for the management of HIP is recommended. Hospital visits should be scheduled to coincide with obstetric and ultrasound visits. COVID-19 infected pregnant women with HIP need enhanced maternal and fetal vigilance, optimal diabetes care and psychological support in addition to supportive measures. This article presents pragmatic options and approaches for primary care physicians, diabetes care providers and obstetricians for GDM screening, diagnosis and management during the pandemic, to be used in conjunction with routine antenatal care.

Thymic Endocrinology-Part 2.

The concept of thymic endocrinology describes a bidirectional effect: the thymic hormones which circulate and significantly affect the immunomodulatory function of the body, and the action of the other hormones derived from the pituitary, adrenal, gonads and thyroid gland on the thymocytes, thymic epithelial cells and the thymic stromal cells. Apart from this there is also an extensive paracrine and autocrine endocrine signal network within the intrathymic environment involving interleukins and thymic peptides .This review attempts to delve into the under-standing of this intrinsic relationship between the thymus gland and the endocrine system at large.

Cardiometabolic vigilance in COVID-19 and resource husbandry in resource-challenged times: Clinical practice- based expert opinion.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The ongoing pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is rapidly evolving, thereby posing a profound challenge to the global healthcare system. Cardiometabolic disorders are associated with poor clinical outcomes in persons with COVID-19. Healthcare challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic are linked to resource constraints including shortage of Personal Protective Equipment's (PPE), laboratory tests and medication. In this context, a group of clinical experts discussed the endocrine and cardiology vigilance required in times of COVID-19. Further, the group proposed certain resource husbandry recommendations to be followed during the pandemic to overcome the constraints. METHOD: The clinical experts discussed and provided their inputs virtually. The expert panel included clinical experts comprising endocrinologists, Consultant Physicians and cardiologists from India. The panel thoroughly reviewed existing literature on the subject and proposed expert opinion. RESULTS: The expert panel put forward clinical practice-based opinion for the management of cardiometabolic conditions including diabetes mellitus and hypertension. As these conditions are associated with poor clinical outcomes, the expert panel recommends that these persons be extra-cautious and take necessary precautions during the ongoing pandemic. Further, experts also provided appropriate, affordable, available and accessible solution to the resource constraint situations in times of COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION: The clinical expert opinion put forward in this article will serve as a reference for clinicians treating diabetes and cardiovascular disease during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Long term complications and rehabilitation of COVID-19 patients.

With the ongoing pandemic of COVID-19 having caught the world almost unaware millions of people across the globe are presently grappling to deal with its acute effects . Our previous experience with members of the same corona virus family (SARS and MERS) which have caused two major epidemics in the past albeit of much lower magnitude , has taught us that the harmful effect of such outbreaks are not limited to acute complications alone .Long term cardiopulmonary, glucometabolic and neuropsychiatric complications have been documented following these infections .In the given circumstance it is therefore imperative to keep in mind the possible complications that may occur after the acute phase of the disease subsides and to prepare the healthcare system for such challenges.

Glucocrinology of Modern Sulfonylureas: Clinical Evidence and Practice-Based Opinion from an International Expert Group.

AIM: The primary objective of this document is to develop practice-based expert group opinion on certain important but less discussed endocrine and metabolic effects of modern sulfonylureas (SUs) and their usage in the management of diabetes mellitus (DM). BACKGROUND: Modern SUs may be considered a panacea in DM care with their beneficial extra-pancreatic, pleiotropic, and cardiovascular effects. Safe glycemic control with SUs could be achieved with appropriate patient selection, drug and dosage selection, and patient empowerment. Additionally, sulfonylureas also exhibit certain endocrine and metabolic effects, which could be considered beneficial in the management of DM. In this regard, a group of international clinical experts discussed the less known beneficial aspects of SUs and safe and smart prescription of modern SUs in DM care. RESULTS: The concept of glucocrinology or the relationship of glycemia with the endocrine system was emphasized during the meetings. Clinical experts arrived at a consensus for the usage of modern SUs in the presence of other endocrine dysfunction and the impact of these drugs on endocrine health. The beneficial pleiotropic and cardiovascular effects of modern SUs were also discussed. The key discussion points were considered to develop clinical expert opinions for the use of modern SUs in persons with DM. Clinical expert opinions were developed for indications, pleiotropic benefits, cardiovascular outcomes, adherence, and safe use of modern SUs. CONCLUSIONS: Appropriate clinical judgement coupled with a patient-centered approach is crucial to achieve the best outcome in persons with DM. Owing to their safety, efficacy, extra-pancreatic benefits including effects on endocrine and metabolic aspects, and low cost of therapy, modern SUs could be considered as drugs/agents of choice for the treatment of diabetes. FUNDING: Sanofi India.

Euthymia in Diabetes: Clinical Evidence and Practice-Based Opinion from an International Expert Group.

AIM: To develop an evidence-based expert group opinion on various types of euthymia associated with diabetes mellitus (DM) and its management. BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic syndrome characterized by diverse biomedical and psychosocial features. Emotional health disturbances may lead to psychological and psychiatric dysfunction and may negatively influence glycemic control. Patients with DM may experience diabetes distress (DD) associated with burden of self-care, interpersonal issues, and emotional worries regarding the ability to cope with the illness. Euthymia or a state of positive mental health and psychological well-being should be considered a key outcome of diabetes care. Therefore, to achieve optimal outcomes, the consideration and measurement of psychological and psychiatric aspects along with glycemic levels are very important. A group of multidisciplinary clinical experts came together in an international meeting held in India to develop a workable concept for euthymia in diabetes care. A multidisciplinary approach was suggested to enhance the clinical outcomes and facilitate patient-centered care. During the meeting emphasis was given to the concept of a euthymia model in diabetes care. This model focuses on enhancement of self-care skills in diabetic patients and preventative health awareness among diabetes care providers. Euthymia also encompasses patient-provider communication to aid enhancement of coping skills. RESULTS: After due discussions and extensive deliberations, the expert group provided several recommendations on implementing the concept of euthymia in DM care. CONCLUSIONS: Introduction of the concept of euthymia in routine clinical practice is important to improve the quality of life and coping skills in patients with DM. A timely clinical assessment of psychological and psychiatric aspects along with patient-reported outcomes of diabetes contributes to overall health and well-being of affected individuals. FUNDING: Sanofi India.

The Bhubaneswar Declaration on Sports Endocrinology, 2018.

Sports and endocrinology are complex interrelated disciplines. Sports and exercise modulate endocrine and metabolic health, and are used to prevent and manage disease. Endocrine and metabolic function influence participation and performance in sports activity. The Bhubaneswar Declaration, released on the occasion of the Endocrine Society of India Conference, resolves to promote the science of sports endocrinology. The authors commit to optimize endocrine health in sports persons, encourage safe use of sports to promote health, and prevent misuse of endocrine interventions in sports.

An observational longitudinal study of the impact of sleeve gastrectomy on glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is increasingly being acknowledged as an effective independent bariatric procedure for obese persons with type 2 diabetes. Data on laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy from India on this group of patients are limited. This study presents 12-month follow-up data of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on obese Indian patients with type 2 diabetes. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: In total, 43 obese patients with type 2 diabetes who received sleeve gastrectomy surgery in the Department of Bariatric Surgery, Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon, India, were evaluated prospectively for a period of 1 year. RESULTS: Seven patients missed follow-up visits, and one patient died, leaving 35 patients who were analyzed. The mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels at baseline and 12 months after surgery were 7.94±1.9% and 5.80±0.7%, respectively (P<0.001). Of these, 77.14% reached the primary end point of HbA1c level ≤6% without medication. HbA1c level at target (i.e., <7%) occurred in 91.4%. The mean body weight decreased from 122.08±23.32 kg to 83.43±15.12 kg at 12 months (P<0.001). The percentage of weight loss and percentage of excess weight loss at 12 months were 31.14±7.8% and 61.52±15%, respectively. Antidiabetes medication use decreased from 88.57% to 11.4%. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic sleeve surgery is a safe and effective treatment option among the obese Indian type 2 diabetes population with significant remission rates. Follow-up studies are necessary to assess the long-term durability of these results.

Hypomagnesemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

INTRODUCTION: Hypomagnesemia is reported in type 2 diabetes; magnesium deficiency may play a role in the development of endothelial dysfunction and altered insulin function. OBJECTIVE: To assess the incidence of hypomagnesemia among noncritically ill patients of Type 2 diabetes mellitus and to evaluate the relation of hypomagnesemia to glycemic control and various long-term complications of diabetes mellitus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and fifty, noncritically ill (APACHE score < 10) type 2 diabetes mellitus patients, who were admitted in the Departments of Medicine and Endocrinology, GMCH for uncontrolled hyperglycemia and/or various diabetic complications were studied. Serum magnesium was assessed at admission and rechecked in those found to be deficient. RESULTS: Hypomagnesemia (Se magnesium < 1.6 mg/dl) was documented in 17 (11.33%) patients with a female:male ratio of 9:8. Mean HbA1c was 11.9% in the hypomagnesemic patients compared with 9.8% in controls (P =0.0016). Retinopathy, microalbuminuria, macroalbuminuria, foot ulceration, and neuropathy was present in 64%, 47%, 17.64%, 58.8%, and 82.35%, respectively, of the patients with hypomagnesemia as compared with 45.8% (P =0.118), 38.34% (P =0.704),15.03% (P =0.566), 22.55% (P =0.011) and 82.7% (P =0.976) without hypomagnesemia. Coronary artery disease was less common in the hypomagnesemia group (17.6% vs 39%), but comparable in the subgroup < 50 years (27% vs 25%) (P =0.796). CONCLUSION: Hypomagnesemia in diabetes was associated with poorer glycemic control, retinopathy, nephropathy, and foot ulcers.

Budd-Chiari syndrome in a patient of diabetic ketoacidosis.

We report a rare case of Budd-Chiari syndrome developing in a patient undergoing treatment for diabetic ketoacidosis. A 27-year-old female presented with newly detected Type 1 diabetes with sepsis in ketoacidosis. During the process of treatment, she developed pain abdomen, ascites, and pedal edema. Investigations revealed an alteration of liver function and imaging characteristics of acute on chronic Budd-Chiari syndrome. All known etiological factors for Budd-Chiari syndrome were negative. Diabetic ketoacidosis, being a severely dehydrated state often associated with sepsis, may precipitate an acute presentation of previously asymptomatic Budd-Chiari syndrome.

Quadriparesis in diabetes due to dyselectrolytemia.

A tendency for magnesium deficiency in patients with diabetes mellitus is well established. Hypomagnesemia is commonly associated with hypokalemia and hypocalcemia. Here, we report a case of a 55 yr old woman with diabetes mellitus, presenting with acute onset quadriparesis, paresthesia and muscle cramps, associated with hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia, with total recovery on correction of electrolytes for which no other secondary cause could be ascertained.