Research Corner: Detemir controls blood glucose without the weight gain

There is some evidence that certain types of insulin may reduce weight gain compared to others. 

Tip to take away:  A recent study in individuals with type 1 diabetes showed that detemir helped reduce insulin-associated weight gain. If you have been discussing starting insulin with your physician but have been reluctant because of concern about gaining weight, or if you are currently taking a basal insulin and have experienced weight gain, talk with your healthcare provider about what insulin regimen is best for you.  As with any other medication, if you are taking insulin, be sure to take it as prescribed to best lower blood glucose and reduce the risk of complications.

               
Study summary: 
In a 32-week study, two groups of individuals with type 1 diabetes used either insulin detemir or NPH insulin as their basal insulin. After 16 weeks of treatment, the groups were switched to the other basal insulin.  Energy intake, energy expenditure, weight change, and blood glucose were measured, as well as blood levels of hormones that affect appetite such as gherlin, leptin and glucagon-like peptide 1. At the conclusion of the study, the participants who received detemir lost an average of 1.5 pounds compared to the NPH group that had gained 3.7 pounds.  Energy expenditure through physical activity was similar in both groups.  The weight loss was caused by consuming an average of 160 calories fewer per day while using insulin detemir.  The investigators speculate that the decreased calorie intake was a result of detemir’s interaction with the hormones that affect appetite.

Reference:
Zachariah S, Sheldon B, Shojaee-Moradie F, et al. Insulin detemir reduces weight gain as a result of reduced food intake in patients with type 1 diabetes. Diabetes Care 2011;34:1487-1491.

Abstract available at:
http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/34/7/1487.abstract

For more information:

http://www.levemir-us.com/

http://www.joslin.org/info/why_did_i_gain_weight_when_i_started_taking_insulin.html

http://forecast.diabetes.org/magazine/ask-experts/should-i-switch-insulin-lose-weight

Fit4D’s Research Corner is a feature section where we summarize the latest research studies in diabetes management and provide practical tips based on the findings. Check back regularly for more Research Corner updates!

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