The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Malaysia is reaching alarming levels. In fact, recent statistics indicate that about 3.6 million Malaysians are living with Diabetes.
Unfortunately, this figure is projected to rise significantly, reflecting a growing public health challenge. As such, effective management strategies are urgently required more than ever.
Lusefi (generic name: luseogliflozin) has emerged as a promising therapeutic option for managing T2D. This article seeks to explore how Lusefi supports patients in managing their overall health—providing actionable insights for patients, carers, and healthcare professionals.
What is Lusefi?
Lusefi (generic name: luseogliflozin) is a specialised cutting-edge medication approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. As a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, Lusefi works by considerably reducing the reabsorption of glucose in the kidneys. It, therefore, leads to increased excretion of glucose through the urine, which, in turn, helps to lower blood glucose levels—a crucial aspect of managing type 2 diabetes.
Lusefi was approved for use in Malaysia in 2021, providing an additional treatment option for healthcare providers and type 2 diabetes patients in the country. Its approval marked an important advancement in diabetes management options available to Malaysian patients aged 20 and above.
This approval was backed by authoritative clinical studies that demonstrated its efficacy in improving blood glucose levels and promoting weight loss.
How does Lusefi work?
SGLT2 inhibitors, including Lusefi, work by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose into the bloodstream. Instead, they encourage glucose excretion through urine, effectively reducing blood sugar levels. This mechanism consequently helps lower fasting and post-meal blood glucose levels while improving overall glycemic control.
Beyond managing glucose, Lusefi has additional benefits, such as aiding weight management and improving cardiovascular and kidney health—areas often affected by diabetes.
Benefits of Lusefi for Type 2 Diabetes patients
Lusefi provides several notable benefits for individuals managing T2D:
- Blood sugar control: Authoritative clinical trials have demonstrated that Lusefi effectively lowers HbA1c levels. HbA1c levels are a critical marker for long-term blood sugar control. So, by enhancing glycemic control, it helps avert the complications associated with poorly managed diabetes.
- Reducing cardiovascular risks: Research indicates that SGLT2 inhibitors like Lusefi can reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in diabetic patients. This is particularly important given the high prevalence of heart disease among individuals with T2D.
- Kidney health benefits: Lusefi may also offer protective effects on kidney function. Studies suggest that SGLT2 inhibitors can slow the progression of kidney disease, which is a common complication of diabetes.
How to take Lusefi?
Taking Lusefi as prescribed is crucial for maximising its benefits. The standard dosage is typically one tablet taken once daily, with or without food. Here are some tips for safe use and adherence:
- Follow prescribing guidelines: Always adhere to the dosage recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Consistency is key: Take Lusefi at the same time each day to establish a routine.
- Monitor blood sugar levels: Ensure to regularly check your blood sugar levels to gauge how well the medication is working.
- Stay hydrated: Drink substantial amounts of water throughout the day. This helps considerably prevent dehydration, which can occur due to increased urination.
Potential side effects and considerations
Like any medication, Lusefi may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include:
- Increased urination: This is part of how the drug works but may be inconvenient for some patients.
- Dehydration: Ensure adequate fluid intake to counteract this.
- Urinary or genital infections: These are potential risks due to increased glucose excretion in urine.
- Possible decrease in muscle mass.
In rare cases, patients may experience ketoacidosis, a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention. So, always inform your doctor about any unusual symptoms or concerns while taking Lusefi.
How does Lusefi help manage overall health?
Lusefi contributes positively to overall health management for T2D patients through several mechanisms:
- Weight reduction: One notable effect of Lusefi is its ability to promote weight loss. By increasing glucose excretion through urine, its use may lead to caloric loss and help patients achieve a healthier body mass index (BMI).
- Enhanced insulin sensitivity: Lusefi improves insulin sensitivity, which can help reduce insulin resistance—a key factor in T2D progression.
Combining Lusefi with lifestyle changes
While medication plays an indispensable role in managing T2D, lifestyle changes are equally important for optimal health outcomes. Here are some critical lifestyle modifications that can enhance the effectiveness of Lusefi:
- Regular exercise: Engaging in physical activity helps appreciably improve insulin sensitivity and aids weight management. So, aim for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
- Healthy eating: In practice, a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, supports better blood sugar control. Working with a nutritionist can help develop personalised meal plans.
- Stress management: Chronic stress may negatively impact blood sugar levels. Incorporating stress-reducing practices like mindfulness, yoga, massages, or meditation can be beneficial.
- Quality sleep: Ensuring adequate sleep each night supports overall health and helps regulate hormones that affect hunger and blood sugar levels.
Meal planning and weight management tips for better outcomes
A healthy diet, as mentioned above, plays an indispensable role in managing diabetes effectively. Before considering interventions like Visceral Fat Reduction Treatment, here are some strategies for meal planning that support weight management and improved insulin sensitivity:
- Reduce carbohydrate intake: Focus on low-glycemic index foods that cause slower increases in blood sugar levels.
- Increase fibre intake: High-fibre foods such as vegetables, legumes, and whole grains promote satiety and improve digestive health.
- Balanced nutrition: Ensure meals include a balance of macronutrients—such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats—to maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.
For more resources on nutrition and meal surveillance tailored to diabetes management, consider exploring Clique Clinic’s Meal Surveillance. 
Additionally, while pursuing weight management goals through diet and exercise, aesthetic treatments may also be considered to enhance body composition. Options include:
These treatments can complement lifestyle changes by helping individuals achieve their desired body shape while managing their diabetes effectively.
Conclusion
Overall, managing type 2 diabetes dictates a multifaceted approach to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Supplementing lifestyle modifications, Lusefi’s capacity to effectively lower blood glucose levels while promoting weight loss and supporting cardiovascular health offers significant benefits for those living with T2D in Malaysia.
Furthermore, luseogliflozin has also been linked to decreases in systolic blood pressure, serum triglycerides, and uric acid levels. These factors are essential for controlling metabolic syndrome often seen in diabetic patients.
