Improving the Care of the Older Person with Type 2 Diabetes

Moderator: Jeffrey B. Halter, MD
This activity is supported by an independent educational grant from Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Learning Objectives: (1) describe the co-morbidities and geriatric syndromes common among older adults with T2DM and understand the need to take an individualized management approach to care; (2) consider the risks and benefits of treatment options, including appropriate management options for symptoms and side effects; and (3) manage T2DM pharmacologically with the awareness of polypharmacy issues.

Effective 9/23/10
FDA significantly restricts use of rosiglitazone (Avandia, Avandaryl, Avandameta)
Due to data suggesting higher cardiovascular risk, such as heart attack and stroke, individuals with Type 2 diabetes who are not currently taking rosiglitazone can only be prescribed the medication if they are unable to achieve glycemic control with an alternative medication. Rosiglitazone will only be available to individuals who are currently taking the medication if they appear to be benefiting from the drug and have been counseled on the risks.

For further information:
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/ucm226956.htm

http://healthpolicyandreform.nejm.org/?p=12698&query=OF

Diabetes in Vulnerable Older Persons
Caroline Blaum, MD

New Drug Regimens for Hyperglycemia in Type 2 Diabetes
Richard E. Pratley, MD

Implementing a Complex Hyperglycemia Management Program: Setting Goals and Achieving Adherence
Barbara Resnick, PhD, CRNP