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Results from small clinical trials and early pooled analyses have raised concerns about cardiovascular risks associated with rosiglitazone, one of two thiazolidinediones used to treat patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Two new meta-analyses further clarify the risks associated with pioglitazone and rosiglitazone.
Independent researchers analyzed data provided by the manufacturer from 19 randomized trials (16,390 patients) that compared pioglitazone with placebo or an active comparator. Most treatment protocols were 12 to 24 months. The hazard ratios for myocardial infarction, stroke, or death each were reduced after about 1 year of treatment with pioglitazone, although only the 18% reduction in the combined endpoint was significant. Ris…