Health

Should Type 2 Diabetics be Excited Over the New Drug-Farxiga?

The number of Americans living with type 2 diabetes continues to grow each year. Although diabetes has genetic links in family members, it is also caused by unhealthy lifestyle habits. Yet in recent news, diabetics find a little levity with a new drug approved by the FDA called dapagliflozin (Farxiga).

This new drug comes in tablet form. Astra Zeneca's new medication is an SGLT-2 inhibitor that works to block the reabsorption of glucose into the kidney. Additionally it helps the excretion of glucose to decrease blood sugar levels for diabetics.

Although the exciting news provides an alternative treatment for type 2, the FDA holds concerns over possible links to the increased risk of heart attacks and the bladder cancer. But they believe the benefits outweigh such risks.

What is type 2 Diabetes?

Individuals with this disease experience a shortage of insulin in their body. The body uses insulin to break down the glucose and use it for energy. When consuming sugars, starches, and carbohydrates, the cells work with the insulin to turn the glucose from those foods into energy.

This type of problem can develop from overeating, consistently eating foods high in sugar over the course of life, and obesity. If a person ignores treating their diabetes, they can experience loss of blood circulation to certain bodily limbs and in severe cases the loss of those limbs.

Fighting the Disease

As the whole landscape of healthcare changes in today's society, new approaches to fighting obesity, diabetes, and other prevalent diseases have arisen. Despite being overwhelmed by fast food restaurants, processed and boxed foods high in sugars, artificial and harmful ingredients, people are starting to change the way they eat and see food to prevent diabetes in their life.

As studies suggest, older adults are at greater risk for being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Diabetics must physically inject insulin into their bodies with needles to lower their blood sugar. This type of medication doesn't address the bad habits of these individuals. Instead of exercising and eating right, they tend to rely more on this medication.

Preventive Medicine

In addition to insulin and the approval of this new drug, the best progress can be found through preventive medicine. More doctors are looking to not solely treat the patient for their illness at hand. Instead, they are helping individuals live healthier overall. Older adults with the threat of grave health problems find great success in making these changes at the advice of their primary care providers.

Preventing obesity and diabetes from even developing is the key to a healthier America. Factors contributing to prevention include recurring checkups with the same doctor, eating healthy unprocessed foods, and exercising daily. All of these components create a physical balance for a person at any age. A comprehensive primary care program gives individuals the best chance at long lasting good health.

Corporate and even medium sized businesses are establishing employee wellness programs. These initiates carry the belief that healthier employees result in better work productivity and a happier work environment. Rather than focus on the news headlines surrounding Obamacare, see what advice and steps you or your family should take to invest in preventive medicine to fight the development or a present case of diabetes.

Source: http://drugabuse.com/guides/substance-abuse-and-diabetes/

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