Thiazolidinediones Associated with Risk for Diabetic Macular Edema

Thiazolidinedione use is associated with increased risk for diabetic macular edema, according to a retrospective cohort study in the Archives of Internal Medicine.

Researchers assessed thiazolidinedione use in a cohort of 100,000 U.K. patients with diabetes. Those who used the drugs were at increased risk for developing macular edema at 1 year, compared with nonusers (1.3% vs. 0.2%). The difference was still significant at 10 years' follow-up. Rosiglitazone and pioglitazone appeared to carry similar risks.

Noting the study's many limitations, commentators conclude: "We can neither be certain that thiazolidinediones cause macular edema nor be reassured that such a risk does not exist." But like the authors, they recommend, "The occurrence of characteristic visual symptoms among patients taking thiazolidinediones or any other diabetic medication should prompt evaluation and ophthalmologic referral.