The Efficacy of the Treatment With Insulin Degludec in Japanese Diabetes Mellitus and the QOL of the Treated Patients

Abstract

Insulin-Degludec enables a flat and stable glucose lowering effect, despite its once-daily administration. Eighty-four diabetic patients on insulin therapy were assigned to one of two groups: in group D, the patients' long-acting insulin was changed to Insulin-Degludec; or group C, the patients' continued their current regimens (group C). We examined the effects of the treatment and the QOL of the patients. After 24 weeks of treatment, there was a significant difference in the reduction of the HbA1c level (group D, -0.60±0.65 %; group C, -0.35±0.55 %; p=0.03); this difference was remarkable when the patients were limited to those receiving intensive therapy. The QOL of each group was examined using the Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (DTSQ). After 24 weeks, Insulin-Degludec treatment improved the total score of satisfaction and treatment convenience, in comparison to standard therapy (group D+1.12±5.72, group C -2.31±6.55, p=0.03). In particular, Insulin-Degludec improved the satisfaction score (group D+0.85±4.27, group C -1.88±4.96, p=0.03). The scores for the questions on hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia did not differ between the two groups during the 24-week study period. The results showed that Insulin-Degludec was effective and that it improved the QOL of the patients.