Comparing the Body Weight Change in Type 2 Diabetes Patients between Received Medicines at the Hospital and by Mail Delivery During the COVID-19 Outbreak

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 outbreak causes patients to avoid coming to the hospital. In addition, Rajavithi Hospital began to have a drug delivery system by mail during the outbreak. Objective: To compare differences in changes in body weight control, glucose levels, blood pressure, and lipid levels among type 2 diabetic patients who receive medication at the hospital and receive medication by mail. Method: This study was a retrospective cohort study. A total of 304 participants in the study were patients treated in diabetes clinics, 202 patients received medication at the hospital group, and 102 patients mail-in medicine group. Result: For patients receiving medication at the hospital of 202, the pre-epidemic mean weight was 68.95±14.03 kg, with a non-significant decrease at six months to 68.52±13.78 kg (p-value = .097). For patients receiving medication by mail, the previous weight was 71.74±15.42 kg and there was a non-significant reduction at six months to 69.80±14.53 kg (p-value = .059). The mean weight loss between the two groups showed no significant difference (p-value = .152). Changes in blood pressure, FPG, HbA1c, Cr, and LDL-C levels were not different in both groups. There was a greater decrease in BUN change in the postal drug group. Conclusion: The result showed no difference in body weight between the hospital and mail-order groups.