How to best manage glycemia and non-glycemia during the time of acute myocardial
infarction.
Authors Hirsch IB, O'Brien KD
Submitted By Kevin O'Brien on 10/31/2012
Status Published
Journal Diabetes technology & therapeutics
Year 2012
Date Published 6/1/2012
Volume : Pages 14 Suppl 1 : S22 - S32
PubMed Reference 22650221
Abstract Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is common in patients with diabetes. Reasons
for this are multifactorial, but all relate to a variety of maladaptive
responses to acute hyperglycemia. Persistent hyperglycemia is associated with
worse left ventricular function and higher mortality during AMI, but
intervention data are far from clear. Although there is a theoretical basis for
the use of glucose-insulin-potassium infusion during AMI, lack of outcome
efficacy (and inability to reach glycemic targets) in recent randomized trials
has resulted in little enthusiasm for this strategy. Based on the increasing
understanding of the dangers of hypoglycemia, while at the same time
appreciating the role of hyperglycemia in AMI patients, goal glucose levels of
140-180 mg/dL using an intravenous insulin infusion while not eating seem
reasonable for most patients and hospital systems. Non-glycemic therapy for
patients with diabetes and AMI has benefited from more conclusive data, as this
population has greater morbidity and mortality than those without diabetes. For
ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), reperfusion therapy with primary
percutaneous coronary intervention or fibrinolysis, antithrombotic therapy to
prevent acute stent thrombosis following percutaneous coronary intervention or
rethrombosis following thrombolysis, and initiation of ß-blocker therapy are the
current standard of care. Emergency coronary artery bypass graft surgery is
reserved for the most critically ill. For those with non-STEMI, initial
reperfusion therapy or fibrinolysis is not routinely indicated. Overall, there
have been dramatic advances for the treatment of people with AMI and diabetes.
The use of continuous glucose monitoring in this population may allow better
ability to safely reach glycemic targets, which it is hoped will improve
glycemic control.


Investigators with authorship
NameInstitution
Kevin O'BrienUniversity of Washington

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