Newer doesn't automatically mean better, especially when it comes to diabetes medications. According to a study published in the on-line journal, Annals of Internal Medicine, metformin performs as well, and sometimes better, than some of the newer diabetes drugs on the market today.
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Press Release of July 16th, 2007...
The Annals of Internal Medicine On-line Article...
Although the newer drugs work differently than older medications, they don't always perform better. Metformin has been around since the mid 1990's and works well for many people. It does not increase weight and can lower "bad" cholesterol levels. But that doesn't mean that metformin is right for everybody. Metformin can cause gastrointestinal problems in some people, when it is prescribed alone. When used in combination with other newer drugs, this side effect is lessened.
In light of the recent news about rosiglitazone and other thiazolinediones, and the possible risk of heart attack, it is good to know that some of the drugs that have been around for a while are still as effective as their newer counterparts.
The new generations of drugs give doctors and patients many more options for treating type 2 diabetes. But in the rush to embrace the new, it's important not to forget the old.
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