Diabetes drugs double fracture risk

Posted on 2008-12-11 05:02:03 in Bone and Dental | Diabetes | Medications |

The long-term use of thiazolidinediones, a class of drugs used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, has been found to double a woman's risk of fracture.

The long-term use of thiazolidinediones, a class of drugs used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, has been found to double a woman's risk of fracture.

Researchers from the University of East Anglia (UEA) in the UK and Wake Forest University found that use of thiazolidinediones for more than one year by women with type 2 diabetes significantly reduces bone density and doubles their risk of fracture. No increase in fracture risk was observed in men.

"Women with type 2 diabetes are already at an increased risk of fractures - with a near doubling in the risk of hip fractures - so any additional risk from thiazolidinedione therapy could have a considerable impact on public health," said lead author Dr Yoon Loke in a news release. Dr Loke recommends that patients should not stop or change their treatment suddenly without consulting their doctor, and that women who have been taking thiazolidinediones for more than a year should discuss other treatment options with their doctor.

Long-term use of thiazolidinediones and fractures in type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis. CMAJ. Early release published on December 10th 2008. doi: 10.1503/cmaj.080486

News release: Long-term use of diabetes drugs by women significantly increases risk of fractures. University of East Anglia. december 10th 2008

Health Headlines

Berries May Combat Metabolic Dysfunction

Finnish researchers reveal that a diet rich in berries may reduce levels of inflammatory markers linked to metabolic disorders and liver disease.

Scientists Discover Protein that Naturally Inhibits Aging

UCSD (US) researchers discover Sestrin, a protein that functions as natural inhibitor of aging and age-related pathologies in a fruitfly model of aging.

Cocoa Compounds Boost Blood Flow to Muscles

Researchers find that a beverage rich in cocoa flavanols increases blood flow to muscles, and may thereby alleviate exercise-related strains on the heart.

Cardiac Risks of Air Travel in the Older Population

Older airline passengers with a history of heart disease may be more prone to heartbeat irregularities.

Blood Pressure Dietary Program May Boost Brain Function

The DASH Diet, resultant from the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension study, improves mental activity in overweight adults with high blood pressure.

Daily Dose of Sugary Beverages Linked to Rise in Diabetes

In the US, more than 100,000 cases of diabetes over the last decade may be a direct result of the rise in consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, sports drink

Alcohol May Help to Curb Weight Gain in Women

Large-scale study finds that light alcohol consumption slashes women’s risk of gaining excess weight.

Weakened Muscles May Result from Low Vitamin D Levels

Insufficient blood levels of vitamin D may cause fat to amass in muscle tissue, reducing muscle strength.

Nutrigenomics Personalizes Disease Prevention

Nutrigenomics is a new scientific field that combines molecular biology, genetics and nutrition to regulate gene expression through specific nutrients.

Red Clover Extract May Lessen Depression and Anxiety

Austrian study finds that red clover extract may alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety in postmenopausal women.