Top stories in endocrinology: FDA approves glucose monitor for smartphone, pegbelfermin improves lipid profile in certain patients with type 2 diabetes

The most read story in endocrinology last week was that the FDA approved a glucose monitor for use on a smartphone. The second most-read story was research indicating pegbelfermin improved lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Other popular stories included a study concluding fast-acting insulin improved mealtime glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes taking large doses, an analysis finding patients with heart failure who received levothyroxine may be at higher risk for death, and a story providing insight on why women live longer than men. – by Janel Miller

FDA clears glucose monitor for smartphone

The FDA has approved a digital health system that includes a smart, portable blood glucose monitor that integrates with a user’s smartphone and in-app coaching, according to a press release from POPS! Diabetes Care. Read more.

Pegbelfermin improves lipid profile in type 2 diabetes with obesity

Treatment with pegbelfermin for 12 weeks improved lipid profile in adults with obesity, type 2 diabetes and a predisposition for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD, according to findings from a phase 2 study published in Obesity. Read more.

Fast-acting insulin improves mealtime glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes taking large doses

Fast-acting insulin aspart is a potentially more effective treatment for the management of postprandial glucose in adults with insulin-resistant type 2 diabetes compared with insulin aspart, according to findings published in Diabetic Medicine. Read more.

Levothyroxine therapy in heart failure may increase risk for death

Among patients with heart failure, levothyroxine therapy may increase risk for all-cause death, major adverse cardiovascular events and CV death, independent of whether the patient is treated before or after the heart failure diagnosis, according to an analysis of Danish registry data. Read more.

Clues to increased longevity in women vs. men

In the United States, the human life span has increased substantially in the past century, the product of better medical management and a slowing of biological aging. National studies of health biomarkers have demonstrated a deceleration of the aging process over time, and deaths from cardiovascular disease and stroke have declined. However, this positive increase in life span is offset by a potential increase in other diseases, such as obesity and diabetes. Read more.