Advancements in pharmacotherapy options for treating diabetes ‎in children and adolescents

Marzieh Daniali1,2, Shekoufeh Nikfar3,4, Mohammad Abdollahi1,2

  • 1Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Insights

Pediatric diabetes management differs significantly from adult care due to unique physiological factors and limited approved medications. Personalized treatment strategies are essential for improving outcomes in children and adolescents with diabetes.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Diabetes Mellitus Research

Background:

  • Children exhibit distinct physiological differences in insulin sensitivity and beta-cell function compared to adults.
  • Current US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved antidiabetic medications for pediatric use are limited to insulin, metformin, and liraglutide.
  • Off-label use of certain antidiabetic agents has shown promise in specific pediatric diabetes cases, particularly those linked to genetic mutations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare diabetes management strategies between pediatric and adult populations.
  • To identify existing challenges and gaps in the current treatment of pediatric diabetes.
  • To highlight the need for personalized and precise approaches in managing diabetes in children and adolescents.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov.
  • Studies published between 2001 and 2023 focusing on diabetes management across different age groups were included.
  • Comparative analysis of treatment approaches and outcomes in pediatric versus adult diabetes patients.

Main Results:

  • Significant physiological variations (insulin sensitivity, clearance, beta-cell function) exist between pediatric and adult patients.
  • Limited FDA-approved medication options for pediatric diabetes contrast with broader choices for adults.
  • Emerging research suggests classifying type 2 diabetes into subtypes based on clinical and biological markers, potentially altering future treatment paradigms.
  • Off-label drug use shows potential but requires further investigation for safety and efficacy in pediatric populations.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric diabetes management requires distinct, personalized strategies compared to adult care.
  • There is a critical need for further research into the safety and efficacy of various antidiabetic drugs for children and adolescents.
  • Advancements in understanding diabetes subtypes may revolutionize prevention, treatment, and precision medicine approaches for all age groups.
Abstract

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