At last, a weight neutral insulin?
In the treatment of diabetes, the positive correlation between weight gain and glycaemic control is well known. Inappropriate weight gain has been demonstrated in landmark diabetes studies, with insulin or oral antidiabetic drugs. Weight increase is associated with accelerated deterioration in beta-cell function in type II diabetes, and increases in hypertension and lipid levels in both type I and type II diabetes. Concerns about increasing weight may be a barrier to initiation or to intensification of insulin therapy. Insulin introduction may be delayed in type II diabetes, and patients may under-dose their insulin to avoid gaining weight. Insulin detemir is a new long-acting soluble insulin analogue where protraction is achieved by reversible binding to albumin. As a result, it has consistent absorption and low variability from injection to injection. Studies of insulin detemir in basal-bolus regimens in type I and type II diabetes have shown significantly less weight gain compared with NPH. There is speculation about potential mechanisms for these outcomes and results from ongoing investigations are awaited. The insulin detemir data suggest that weight gain with insulin therapy is not inevitable. The potential therefore exists for improving glycaemic control while maintaining weight stability, resulting in immediate and long-term benefits for patients.