Approaches to help people with diabetes overcome barriers for improved health outcomes

Diabetes has reached epidemic proportions, and studies have shown that many patients do not reach optimal glycemic control. Evidence suggests that often there is a long lapse between treatment failure and therapy advancement. A better understanding of the pharmacotherapeutic treatment options, realistic goal-setting, and continued follow-up to support treatment adherence are crucial to improving diabetes care and outcomes. Many possible barriers prevent patients from achieving the desired level of glycemic control, eg, side effects of medications, psychosocial issues, and access to support services. Strategies to overcome these barriers will be presented. Pramlintide, an adjunct to insulin therapy, is the first antihyperglycemic agent to be approved for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes since insulin was developed. Educating patients about the dosing, administration, and side effects of pramlintide before adding it to insulin therapy may improve patient adherence and ultimately optimize treatment outcomes and success.