PROspective PioglitAzone Clinical Trial In MacroVascular Events: A Macrovascular Outcome Study in Type 2 Diabetic Patients Comparing Pioglitazone With Placebo in Addition to Existing Therapy

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common non-communicable diseases worldwide. More than 22 million persons have been diagnosed with diabetes in the European region of the International Diabetes Federation. Complications of diabetes involving both microvascular and macrovascular systems contribute to increased disability and reduced life expectancy. Damage to the coronary, cerebral (brain), and peripheral vascular beds as a consequence of diabetes is responsible for the increased macrovascular illness and death associated with the disease.

Insulin resistance is common to the genesis of both atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In diabetes, insulin resistance is coupled to receptor dysfunction. In atherosclerosis, insulin resistance may have both direct effects on the cardiovascular system as well as indirect effects provoked by imbalances in blood glucose, lipids, clotting factors, endothelial function, and other factors. Considerable indirect evidence suggests that peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonists may favorably influence macrovascular outcome, either through modification of risk factors (such as blood lipids) or through effects on the vessel wall.

Pioglitazone, a thiazolidinedione compound discovered by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, Ltd, functions as a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor agonist as its mode of action.

This study is designed to assess whether pioglitazone in combination with other medications administered for glycemic management of type 2 diabetes might reduce the incidence of macrovascular events associated with this disease compared with placebo. Individuals who participate in this study will provide written informed consent and will be required to commit to screening and randomization visits and approximately 17 additional visits (1 every 2 months for the first year and every 3 months thereafter) at the study center. Study participation is anticipated to be about 40 months (or approximately 3 years and 4 months). Multiple procedures will occur at each visit which may include fasting, blood collection, physical examinations and electrocardiograms.