New-Onset Diabetes Mellitus in Post-renal Transplant Patients on Tacrolimus and Mycophenolate: A Systematic Review

Cureus. 2022 Nov 14;14(11):e31482. doi: 10.7759/cureus.31482. eCollection 2022 Nov.

Abstract

A frequent complication in kidney transplantation is post-transplant diabetes mellitus (PTDM). The primary goal of this study is to review the risk factors and preventive methods and compare the different available anti-diabetic medications for the management of PTDM. We searched databases like Pubmed and Google Scholar for related articles using specific terms and phrases. Following a thorough investigation, we applied the inclusion and exclusion criteria and completed a quality assessment. Modifiable risk factors have a significant role in the development of PTDM. The combinations of immunosuppressive treatment tacrolimus (TAC), cyclosporine A (CYC), and everolimus (EVL), steroids increase the incidence of PTDM significantly. Insulin is the most effective treatment for PTDM in the early transplant period; however, oral anti-diabetic medications look promising. Further clinical trials are required to determine the optimum treatment method for reducing the occurrence of PTDM and treating the existing condition with novel anti-hyperglycemic medications.

Keywords: anti-hyperglycemic drugs; immunosuppressant therapy; post-transplant diabetes mellitus; renal transplantation; tacrolimus.

Publication types

  • Review