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Oral hypoglycemic agents

H E Lebovitz1

  • 1Clinical Research Center, SUNY Health Science Center, Brooklyn.

Primary Care
|June 1, 1988
PubMed

Insights

Oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs) have a complex history in treating non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). Initially successful, their use declined due to safety concerns but has since resurged for managing hyperglycemia.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology
  • Medical History

Background:

  • Non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) management has evolved significantly.
  • Oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs) have played a pivotal role in NIDDM treatment strategies.
  • The historical trajectory of OHA use reflects changing therapeutic paradigms and safety evaluations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the historical development and utilization of oral hypoglycemic agents in NIDDM.
  • To analyze the factors influencing the rise, fall, and resurgence of OHA use.
  • To provide context for the current role of OHAs in diabetes management.

Main Methods:

  • Historical review of scientific literature and clinical trial data.
  • Analysis of key events and publications impacting OHA prescribing trends.
  • Examination of the University Group Diabetes Program (UGDP) findings and their consequences.

Main Results:

  • Oral hypoglycemic agents (e.g., sulfonylureas) gained prominence in the late 1950s for NIDDM.
  • The University Group Diabetes Program (UGDP) study raised safety concerns, leading to a decline in OHA use.
  • Subsequent research and re-evaluation have re-established OHAs as valuable tools for hyperglycemia management in NIDDM.

Conclusions:

  • The history of OHAs in NIDDM is marked by periods of widespread adoption, controversy, and renewed acceptance.
  • Understanding this history is crucial for appreciating the current evidence-based use of OHAs.
  • OHAs remain important agents in the multifaceted management of hyperglycemia in NIDDM patients.

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