Free Diabetic Supplies

A new study at Mount Sinai Hospital in Canada has resulted in some findings that should bring hope to individuals with diabetes.  The study dealt with the idea that it could be possible for individuals with diabetes to take fewer injections to control blood sugar and insulin levels, therefore, controlling their diabetes more effectively and more easily.

The study tested individuals with type 2 diabetes who had been taking one or more daily injections to control their diabetes.  During the study, 265 individuals who were taking Byetta, a diabetes medication taken by injection, with the generic name of exenatide, was administered in long-acting form on a weekly basis to individuals who had been using the medication by injection on a daily basis.

The results were extremely positive.  At a 30 week follow-up, patients who were using the long lasting, weekly injection showed a significant blood sugar control over the patients who had been using the daily injections.  More than 77% of the patients using the long acting injection were able to achieve their blood sugar goals without increasing the risk of low blood sugar levels or affecting their efforts at weight loss.

It is also important to note that exenatide is a medication which is used in addition to other diabetes treatment and not by itself.  It is usually prescribed for individuals whose diabetes medication and treatment is not as effective as it should be.  The addition of exenatide (Byetta) to their regimen helps regulate their diabetes and control symptoms and side effects.

The study, led by Dr. Daniel Drucker, was successful and points to a better way to control diabetes in the future.  More research is still necessary to determine long-term effects, long-term safety and other possible side effects, however it is great news that progress is being made in this area of research.