Pattern of Antidiabetic Prescription and Prevalence of Hypoglycaemic Events in Individuals Aged above 65 Years: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a global health issue with micro- and macrovascular complications. With a rapidly rising population and increasing life expectancy, the prevalence of diabetes also increased. Hypoglycaemia represents the major barrier to optimal glycaemic control at any age, with elderly individuals being especially vulnerable owing to the burden of co-morbid diseases. Aim: To analyse the prescription pattern and prevalence of hypoglycaemia associated with antidiabetic medications in individuals aged above 65 years. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Endocrinology Outpatient Department of SDM College of Medical Sciences and Hospital, Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara University, Dharwad, Karnataka, India, from April 2022 to March 2023. A total of 400 elderly diabetic patients who were on antidiabetic drugs for at least one year were included in the study. Parameters like age, gender, height, weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) were recorded. Baseline parameters like Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS), Glycosylated Haemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid profile, urine analysis, creatinine, microvascular (neuropathy, nephropathy, and retinopathy) and macrovascular {Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), stroke and peripheral arterial disease} complications were recorded. The prescription pattern of antidiabetic drugs, including oral antidiabetic drugs and injectables, was analysed. Statistical analysis was done by using Chi-square test and Fisher’s-exact test. A p-value