Project summary
Many people with type 2 diabetes also experience depression. But we don’t know which existing diabetes treatments could also treat depression in people living with both conditions. Dr Gao is providing much-needed evidence to fill this knowledge gap. Her work could help to shape more personalised care so people get treatments that help them manage both conditions, without needing extra medications.
Background to research
People living with type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of depression. And living with depression can make it more difficult to manage type 2 diabetes, increasing the risk of harmful complications.
Current guidelines advise that type 2 diabetes and depression are treated together. But of the around 30 type 2 diabetes medicines available, we don’t know which will best treat both conditions.
Research aims
Dr Min Gao will identify and rank which type 2 diabetes medicines work best at reducing symptoms of depression in people living with type 2 diabetes.
To do so, she’ll first find research studies which have evaluated the effects of diabetes medications on depression. Dr Gao will then compare how well each medication works to improve symptoms of depression.
She’ll also chat to the public and people living with type 2 to understand their experiences of managing diabetes and depression, as well as their treatment expectations. This feedback will help inform her analysis.
Potential benefit to people with diabetes
This research could improve current care guidelines for depression and type 2 diabetes, helping doctors to personalise care and choose treatments that support both blood sugar management and depression.
Improving people’s mental health alongside their physical health could make it easier for people with type 2 to stick to their medicines and stay well.
