Is HbA1c Of 7.5 A Cause For Concern?

Posted on Wed, 20 Sep 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 Answered on

Thu, 12 Oct 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I'm 72yrs male .I m diabetic since last 9 yrs.I m taking glycomet gp2 forte(1000mg metformin+2 mg glimperide) at b/f & ten Dc 20 mg after lunch & in the night Glimy M.My Hb1c is 7.5.Pl suggest to bring it 6,
with regards,
DR R C XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Pavan Kumar Gupta (1 hour later)

Brief answer.....it would be better for you not to try to achieve a HBA1c of 6
Detailed answer....
Hello,
Thanks for the query.
I have read your query and understand your concern.
Although achieving HBA1c target of 6 is good but in your case it is fraught with danger and should be avoided.
Your present value of 7.5 is equal to around 180-185 while value of 6 corresponds to around 110-115.
Danger is of hypoglycaemia ,that is episodes of low blood sugar levels.
If we try for more stringent control with more medications,then chances are that you would be more prone for such attacks of hypoglycaemia because of your advanced age.
At old age episodes of hypoglycaemia can be very detrimental and even fatal.
Ideally your goal should be around 7 which roughly translates to around 150.
Since there is not a big difference between 150 and and 180,it can be achieved by taking less calories and sweets and doing more exercises like walking etc.
You can add tab voglibose .2 mg twice daily after meals to your current medications and see the result.
This won't cause episodes of hypoglycaemia.
You may even discuss about it with your treating doctor.
I hope it helps,however you are most welcome to revert to me for any further query,
Best of luck
Thanks

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj