New studies show pioglitazone is suitable for the long haul

Treatment with the thiazolidinedione, pioglitazone ['Actos'], alone or in combination with metformin or sulphonylureas, provides durable improvements in glycaemic control and insulin sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, according to the results of two studies presented at the 63rd Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association (ADA) [New Orleans, US; June 2003]. The studies showed that the improvements in glycaemic control and insulin sensitivity were maintained over 52 weeks. Furthermore, significant improvements in levels of triglycerides and HDL-cholesterol were achieved with pioglitazone therapy.