The Rates of Overtreatment and Deintensification in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus

The Rates of Overtreatment and Deintensification of Antidiabetic and Antihypertensive Medications in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus

This study evaluates the overtreatment and deintensification rates of antidiabetic and antihypertensive medications in patients with diabetes mellitus in Turkey.

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic diseases which lead to serious public health problems and a significant economic burden worldwide. The prevalence of diabetes in elderly patients is very high and is predicted to increase dramatically.

Prior studies have generally been concerned with the inadequate treatment of diabetes however, over the last few years the overtreatment of diabetes has also come to the fore. Unfortunately, there are very few data worldwide and no data in Turkey about the overtreatment of patients with type 2 diabetes.

This study aimed to assess the rates and predictors of overtreatment and undertreatment of glycemia and blood pressure in older adults with T2DM. Treatment deintensification or intensification by the physicians were also investigated.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with Diabetes Mellitus type I or II
• Age 65 years or older
• To be under follow-up in the same center for at least one year.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Younger than 65 years old
• having decompensated liver disease
• psychiatric disorders interfering cognition or compliance
• having bariatric surgery or on renal replacement therapy