The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with diabetes

Abstract

The purpose of the present chapter is to explain the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on diabetes and implications for treatment. The SARS-CoV-2 outbreak affected millions all around the world and the number of infected cases is still increasing. The available scientific data from clinical studies of COVID-19 show that is worse with comorbidities such as diabetes. According to statistical data, the mortality rate in diabetic patients is higher than non-diabetics. SARS-CoV-2 can cause acute diabetes using angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2), which is abundant in Langerhans islets. Anti-diabetic drugs during COVID-19 may be a novel strategy to reduce virus entry and replication in individuals with or without type II diabetes. Studies to date have shown that some drugs tried in the treatment of COVID-19 improve glucose profile but the others cause impairment of glucose metabolism and ?-cell function. Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitors may prevent the progression of the hyperinflammatory state associated with COVID-19. Therefore, since it is important to maintain glucose homeostasis in COVID-19 treatment, more studies are needed on the hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia molecular mechanisms of anti-diabetic drugs. Telemedicine or digital medicine plays a crucial role in monitoring glycemic control in diabetic patients with COVID-19. © 2021 Nova Science Publishers, Inc.