Usage of Low-dose Glimepiride (0.5 mg) and Metformin Combination in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes Continuum in Indian Setting

Abstract

Background: To understand the approach of clinicians about the treatment pattern, dosage, efficacy and safety of the combination of low-dose glimepiride (0.5 mg) and metformin fixed-dose combination (FDC) in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) continuum in Indian settings. Methods: This case-based questionnaire survey included health care professionals (n = 112) across India, who were prescribing glimepiride and metformin FDC. Data were collected from the medical records and analyzed. Results: The data of 1,403 patients with T2DM were included. The mean age was 49.1 years and 68.4% of patients were males. The median duration of T2DM was 36 months. A total of 86.7% of patients received glimepiride and metformin FDC as first-line therapy. The most commonly prescribed (71.5%) dosage of glimepiride and metformin was 0.5 mg/500 mg. The titration of the dose was performed in 231 patients, of which 82.7% required up-titration and 17.3% required down-titration. The mean glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) levels reduced significantly (mean change: 1.2%, 36.5 mg/dL and 50.2 mg/dL,
respectively) post-treatment. The hypoglycemic event and weight gain were reported in 7.7% and 9.5% of patients, respectively. Overall physician’s global evaluation of efficacy and tolerability was rated good to excellent in the majority of patients (>85%). Conclusion: Results demonstrate low-dose (0.5 mg) glimepiride and metformin FDC is effective in achieving glycemic control through lowering HbA1c, FPG and PPG levels with acceptable safety outcomes.