What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes mellitus, or diabetes, is a chronic discorder affecting metabolism. In particular, it affects how the body uses blood sugar or glucose. Glucose is a crucial source of energy for the cells that form our body in muscles, tissues and also the brain [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].

Our body produces a hormone called insulin, which helps glucose get into our cells to be used for energy. However, people affected by diabetes do not make enough insulin or their body can’t effectively use it. This leads to high levels of glucose in the blood which may lead to several serious health problems [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].

There are three main types of diabetes:

• type 1,
• type 2
• and gestational diabetes [4].

In type one diabetes, the body does not make insulin due to an autoimmune process that destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas [2, 3, 4].

Type 2 diabetes refers to the group of people who can’t make or use insulin well, usually associated with lifestyle-related factors (for instance obesity). Gestational diabetes is a temporary condition, which results in high blood sugar levels during pregnancy [2, 3, 4].

What are Prostaglandin Agonists?

Prostaglandin agonists are compounds that stimulate the activity of prostaglandin receptors. Prostaglandins are a group of lipid compounds derived from arachidonic acid via the cyclooxygenase pathway[6].

Prostaglandins are synthesized by almost all mammalian cells and are present in most tissues. They are released outside of cells right after their synthesis and exert their actions by binding to receptors on target cells [7].

Prostaglandin agonists mimic the action of natural prostaglandins, they bind to their specific receptors and trigger a response. For instance, prostaglandin analogues used in the treatment of glaucoma mimic PGF2 and target one of the prostaglandin receptors (FP) [8].

Prostaglandin agonists have a wide scope of effects and receptors they can bind to. For example, they are involved in various physiological processes such as the regulation of maternal and fetal circulation, kidney function and platelet vessel wall interaction. However, they also are active in pathological conditions like inflammation and pain [9].

In the context of medication, prostaglandin agonists are used to induce labour, treat glaucoma, and manage various vascular diseases [10].

Should You Avoid Prostaglandin Agonist In Diabetes?

Some studies have shown that prostaglandin levels are generally elevated in diabetic patients compared to non-diabetic individuals. Interestingly, these elevations persist even after the patients are treated with drugs blocking prostaglandin synthesis such as indomethacin [11, 14].

Further, prostaglandin E receptor agonists and antagonists have been shown to influence β-cell insulin secretion, replication, and survival which is relevant for patients with diabetes[13].

Some other studies have found that prostaglandin E2 can inhibit glucose-induced insulin secretion, suggesting that prostaglandins might have a negative impact on glucose regulation [15].

On the other hand, treatment with a stable prostacyclin (a type of prostaglandin) analogue has been shown to reduce increased TNF-alpha levels in diabetic patients, which could potentially help prevent the progression of diabetic complications [16].

In conclusion, while prostaglandins appear to play a role in diabetes, the decision to avoid prostaglandin agonists should be made on an individual basis, taking into account the patient's overall health, the severity of their diabetes, and their response to other treatments. It is always a good idea to consult this with your medical provider!