By Annette R. Karnash, R.N., M.N.
Diabetes in old adults appears to speed the progression of Parkinson – like symptoms of rigidity and walking disturbances. Researchers feel that diabetes may be a previously unrecognized risk factor for the progression of Parkinson like signs in older people.
Harvard researchers have found that taking Cozaar for hypertension in people with type 2 diabetes may prevent the progression of kidney disease. In the study, patients had high protein levels in the urine (proteinuria) and serum creatinine clearance (a blood test for kidney damage). The majority of the patients had hypertension and were taking other blood pressure medications. Cozaar was added to their conventional antihypertension drugs and followed for 3.4 years. The risk of developing kidney disease decreased 16% in the Cozaar compared to the placebo group. The risk of end stage renal diseases (ESRD) requiring dialysis or transplant decreased by 28% in the Cozaar group and creatinine concentration was reduced by 25% and proteinuria decreased by 35%. In another study researchers from 210 research centers around the world found that Levapro prevented kidney disease and death. Patients were given either Avapro or Norvasc. These patients all had hypertension and late stage kidney disease. The control group was given one of several other antihypertensives. Taking Avapro reduced the risk by 20% compared to the placebo group and 24% compared to the Norvasc. Avapro not only is an excellent blood pressure drug but protects the kidney from damage, slows the progression of kidney disease and delays or prevents the need for dialysis or transplantation.
(N. Eng. Journal of Medicine, Sept. 20, 2001)
