Diuretics and Statins Are Associated with New-Onset Diabetes

Evidence suggests that β-blocker, diuretic, or statin use increases risk for new-onset diabetes. In this reanalysis of the randomized, controlled NAVIGATOR trial (NEJM JW Cardiol Mar 14 2010) data, investigators assessed whether β-blocker, thiazide diuretic, statin, or calcium-channel blocker (CCB) use in >9300 patients with impaired glucose tolerance and cardiovascular risk factors was associated with new-onset diabetes.

During a median follow-up of 5 years, β-blockers, thiazide diuretics, statins, and CCBs were each started in about 20% of patients who had not been exposed to these drugs previously. After adjustment for multiple variables, risk for new-onset diabetes was significantly higher in patients who initiated diuretics (hazard rati…