[The effect of diclofenac sodium on the metabolism of diabetics in qualitative diet therapy with an without tolbuamide. A clinically oriented study in aged diabetics with rheumatic disease].

The influence of diclofenac sodium (Voltaren) on glucose metabolism was investigated in a group of 13 maturity onset diabetics treated by a standard diet alone. A second group of 14 patients with maturity onset diabetes well controlled by a standard diet and tolbutamide (Rastinon) was examined for a possible drug interaction. Determinations of capillary blood glucose as well as assessments of urine sugar by Clinitest and 24-hour urine glucose determinations were regularly done before and during treatment with diclofenac sodium. The results of this study show no alteration of glucose metabolism. These laboratory data suggest that there is no clinically relevant interaction between diclofenac sodium and tolbutamide. Neither the blood glucose profiles of the individual patients nor those of the two above-mentioned groups showed any alterations of blood glucose concentration. Diclofenac sodium, a non-steroidal antirheumatic drug, may be recommended in the treatment of rheumatic diseases in diabetics. Indomethacin, naproxen, sulindac, diftalon and diclofenac are more recently developed antirheumatic drugs which have been specially tested in diabetics.