[Indications and methods of treatment with sulfonylureas in NIDDM patients]

Metabolic corrections induced by SU therapy can be assessed by daily glycemic changes which reflect all metabolic events taking place during the 24-hour period. Varying responses to treatment reveal different degrees of metabolic reserve. In order to be meaningful the SU sensitivity test must be compared to the daily glycemic profile. Sensitivity test responses were first compared to similar alterations following treatment; and secondly, the correlation was determined between the sensitivity test and the daily percentage of glycemic decrement induced by therapy. The high significance of these comparisons confirmed that the SU sensitivity test is a reliable index of response to treatment and this has also influenced treatment methods. When studying the modes of action of the SU sensitivity test we took into account insulin incretion and sensitivity tests to exogenous insulin to determine the level of receptor activity. Even during acute treatment, SU action is mediated by insulin incretion, whereas SU activity is not related to changes in the receptor system induced by exogenous insulin stimulation.