Previous research has shown that type 2 diabetes is linked with an impairment in exercise capacity. Impaired exercise capacity is a factor which is potentially associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease in those with type 2 diabetes. Recent studies suggest that agents such as exenatide may have a beneficial effect on blood vessel and heart function. Because these two factors are associated with exercise dysfunction, exenatide may improve exercise capacity in those with type 2 diabetes.
The aims of this study are to (1) assess whether exenatide will improve exercise capacity in persons with type 2 diabetes and (2) investigate the effect of exenatide on specific metabolic, blood vessel and cardiac measures of function related to changes in exercise capacity.
This study will look at the effects of exenatide (a diabetes medication) on exercise capacity in people with type 2 diabetes
Qualified participants will receive:
- 3 months of treatment with exenatide or a placebo
- Blood tests
- Exercise testing
- Financial compensation
Inclusion Criteria:
* Men and women between the ages of 45 and 70 years of age
* Diagnosed with uncomplicated type 2 diabetes
* Sedentary persons
* Females who are post-menopausal
* BMI must be less than 35
* Subjects must be taking metformin for diabetes control and may also be on sulfonylurea drugs and/or meglitinides
* Non-smokers or former smokers who have quit for at least 1 year
Exclusion Criteria:
* People with T2DM taking oral medications, other than metformin, sulfonylurea drugs and/or meglitinides, to control their diabetes.
* Persons treated with insulin will be excluded
* People who are currently smoking or have not quit for at least one year
* Peripheral neuropathy
* Pulmonary problems that would limit exercise performance
* Renal disease
* Persons with peripheral arterial disease
* Persons with a history of pancreatitis