Clinical Medicine: Therapeutics 2009:1 305–311 305 REVIEW A Review of Pramlintide in the Management of Diabetes

Abstract: Tight glycemic control in type 1 and type 2 diabetes reduces the risk for microvascular complications, including retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy. Yet, despite intensive insulin regimens, many insulin-dependent patients are unable to achieve euglycemic states. This review will focus on pramlintide, an equipotent amylin analog, and its role in the manage-ment of diabetes. Pramlintide lowers glucose through the same mechanisms as amylin: it slows gastric emptying, suppresses the postprandial rise of glucagon in patients with diabetes, and promotes satiety. Long-term clinical trials have shown that the use of pramlintide as an adjunct to insulin minimizes postprandial glucose excursions and reduces both HbA1C and body weight when compared to placebo. Although its effects on HbA1C are modest, pramlintide has gained popularity as a result of its relatively few contraindications, limited side effects, minimal risk for hypoglycemia, and potential for weight loss. The com-bination of insulin and pramlintide may provide an effective means for patients with diabetes to meet their HbA1C goals