The Role of Troglitazone in Treating the Insulin Resistance Syndrome

Abstract

Insulin resistance is characterized by impaired responsiveness to endogenous or exogenous insulin and often results in the insulin resistance syndrome, a clustering of cardiovascular risk factors that includes abdominal obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, glucose intolerance, and hyperinsulinemia. Although the mechanism responsible for insulin resistance has not been completely defined, it is likely due to defective insulin receptor signaling and results in decreased use of glucose. Troglitazone, the first in a new class of drugs, directly decreases insulin resistance by improving insulin‐mediated glucose disposal and reduces plasma insulin concentrations. Glycemic control achieved with troglitazone monotherapy is equivalent to that with sulfonylurea and metformin, and when combined with these agents offers additional plasma glucose reduction. Studies are necessary to determine the effect of thiazolidinediones on morbidity and mortality of patients with type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance.