Author/Editor		Završnik, Matej; Čokolič, Miro
Title		Novosti v zdravljenju sladkorne bolezni pri starostnikih
Translated title		Novelties in the treatment of diabetes mellitus in the elderly
Type		članek
Source		In: Hojs R, Krajnc I, Pahor A, editors. Zbornik predavanj in praktikum 11. srečanje internistov in zdravnikov splošne medicine Iz prakse za prakso z mednarodno udeležbo; 2000 maj 19-20; Maribor. Maribor: Splošna bolnišnica Maribor,
Publication year		2000
Volume		str. 195-208
Language		slo
Abstract		The aim of diabetes mellitus treatment is the elimination of clinical symptoms in the elderly with a shorter expectation of life. In elderly patients expected to live for another 10 or 15 years we attempt to bring the blood sugar levels as close as possible to normal levels. Hereby we wish to prevent the occurrence or progression of microvascular complications. As a rule, microvascular changes are already present, therefore we must reduce their complications. As initial measures, in the majority of elderly patients a diabetic diet and appropriate regular physical activity have proven unsuccessful. For drug treatment we may choose between insulin secretagogues (sulphonylurea, meglitinides), inhibitors of alpha-glucosidase enzymes and/or insulin. The administration of metformin is disadvised in advanced age. Frequently combinations of these drugs are required. Special care is necessary in preventing hypoglycemia. Often the choice of therapy is difficult as numerous factors such as associated diseases, several drugs, frequently social isolation and decreased mental capacity must be considered.
Descriptors		DIABETES MELLITUS HYPERGLYCEMIA HYPOGLYCEMIC AGENTS AGED SULFONYLUREA COMPOUNDS ALPHA-GLUCOSIDASES BIGUANIDES INSULIN