Combining Insulin Glargine with Metformin and Acarbose in Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Trial

This parallel triple-blind randomized controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of combining insulin glargine with metformin, acarbose, or both in managing blood sugar levels in 87 patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes. Participants were divided into four groups: insulin glargine plus acarbose (Group A), metformin (Group B), both drugs (Group C), or placebo (Group D). Outcomes included changes in HbA1c, fasting and postprandial glucose, lipid profiles, weight, and hypoglycemic events over three months. Results showed significant HbA1c reductions in Groups B (9.6% to 8.4%) and C (9.5% to 8.2%), with Group C demon-strating the most pronounced improvement (P < 0.05). Postprandial glucose control was superior in Group C, while lipid profiles improved across all groups, particularly in Group C (triglycerides: 38.26% reduction). No severe hypoglycemia occurred, though gastrointestinal side effects like bloating were re-ported in Groups A and C. The study concludes that combining insulin glargine with metformin and acar-bose offers superior glycemic control and lipid management without significant hypoglycemia, making it a viable option for uncontrolled type 2 diabetes.