Rezulin for Type II Insulin Users

Rezulin for Type II Insulin Users

NEW DIABETES DRUG
FOR TYPE II INSULIN USERS

Troglitazone (trade name Rezulin, from Parke-Davis), is

the first of a new class of oral medications, the

thiazolidinediones, for treatment of type II (NIDDM)

diabetes. Where the sulfonylureas, the traditional oral

diabetes medications, stimulate the failing pancreas to

produce more insulin, Rezulin directly attacks the problem

of insulin resistance, the increasing inability to process

insulin, that is the chief component of type II diabetes.

In tests, Rezulin therapy enabled many insulin-using type II

diabetics to reduce volume and frequency of insulin

injections. A few were able to discontinue insulin

injections entirely.

As with other oral diabetes medications, Rezulin's

effectiveness depends on the presence of insulin. If

sufficient insulin is not present, it must be injected, and

Rezulin therapy will not change that fact. Where insulin

supply rather than insulin resistance is the issue, Rezulin

therapy offers nothing.

As per who may benefit from use of this medication,

Parke-Davis states:

"Rezulin is indicated for use in patients

with type II diabetes [who are] currently on

insulin therapy, and whose hyperglycemia is

inadequately controlled (HBA1C >8.5%) despite

insulin therapy of over 30 units per day, given as

multiple injections... Rezulin should not be used

in type I diabetes or for the treatment of

diabetic ketoacidosis."

Published data state that although degree of renal

insufficiency has no effect on Rezulin dosage, persons with

hepatic (liver) disease should exercise caution. Other data

suggest that in premenopausal anovulatory women, Rezulin

therapy may result in resumption of ovulation, and risk of

pregnancy. There is further recommendation to proceed with

caution if the individual is taking antirejection drugs such

as cyclosporine or tacrolimus.

The arrival of a new diabetes medication is always a

time of great excitement. Rumors abound, and what we don't

know about the new drug can lead us to wild speculation,

then disappointment. For more information, consult your

doctor.