Problems and Pitfalls of Sulphonylurea Therapy in Older Patients

摘要: The prevalence of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (type II) increases with age, so that approximately half all known patients in English-speaking countries are over 65 years age. There is no reason to believe the criteria for blood glucose control should be any less stringent elderly unless they have a limited life expectancy. Sulphonylurea drugs remain an effective means achieving after failure dietary therapy alone older patients. However, changes normal metabolism age and development other pathologies make it important these prescribed care. Severe symptomatic hypoglycaemia most serious adverse effect sulphonylurea this becomes progressively more likely increasing depending primarily on substantial reduction renal function aging. Other effects much commonly clinical importance. To minimise risk hypoglycaemia, receive closely supervised management education about their disease at least 3 months before prescribed. In short-acting agent active metabolites used. As become older, those receiving long-acting agents can changed problems arise. If appears satisfactory treatment, then symptoms sought. poor, introduction insulin, appropriate education, do not differ from younger