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Intensive insulin therapy: Too risky for type 2 diabetes?
How widespread is the concern about intensive insulin therapy?
Participants in the ACCORD trial have type 2 diabetes and are at high risk of heart disease due to factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or obesity. Although the research findings suggest that intensive insulin therapy with a target A1C level less than 6 percent may be detrimental for people who share these characteristics, the risks may not apply to everyone who has type 2 diabetes.
It's also important to note that the specific reason for the increased death rate is unknown. Preliminary analysis does not link the deaths to low blood sugar episodes or any specific combination of diabetes medications.
Is it safe to continue using intensive insulin therapy?
If intensive insulin therapy is part of your type 2 diabetes treatment plan, continue taking insulin as prescribed until you have the opportunity to talk to your doctor. Although the concerns with intensive insulin therapy and type 2 diabetes shouldn't be taken lightly, the possible risks aren't considered an emergency. Until researchers know more, your doctor may recommend continuing intensive insulin therapy but with a higher target A1C level.
It's also important to remember the other aspects of your diabetes treatment plan. Make healthy eating and physical activity part of your daily routine. Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol under control. If you smoke or use other types of tobacco, ask your doctor to help you quit.
What's the bottom line?
Researchers will continue to study the safety of intensive insulin therapy in people who have type 2 diabetes. In the meantime, the decision about whether intensive insulin therapy is best for you depends on many factors — including your blood sugar level and the presence of any other health problems. Remember, your diabetes treatment plan and target blood sugar level are designed just for you. Carefully follow your doctor's instructions for managing your blood sugar level and reducing your risk of diabetes complications.
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