Effects of Acarbose on Endothelial Function After a Mixed Meal in Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes

Endothelial dysfunction (ED) has been suggested as a possible causal link between postprandial hyperglycemia and cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes. Recent trials demonstrated a reduction of cardiovascular events by treatment with the alpha glucosidase inhibitor acarbose - a drug which mainly reduces postprandial glucose excursions. We were interested whether patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes showed postprandial ED and if so whether acarbose was able to improve this condition.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age 35-75 years
• type 2 diabetes (newly diagnosed)
• well glycemic control (HbA1c </= 8.1)
• leucocyte count > 6.2 or hs CrP > 1

Exclusion Criteria:

• hs CrP > 10
• type 1 diabetes
• previous treatment with antidiabetic drugs