Eli Lilly &
Co.(NYSE:LLY) and Boehringer Ingelheim
Pharmaceuticals were testing a diabetes related drug for sometime, but they
have recently announced that the data from two trials comprising their
experimental diabetes treatment looked promising as the drug has indeed been
successful in reducing blood pressure, which is a serious risk for diabetic
patients as it can lead to various health complications.
Empagliflozin, as the drug is called, is part of
a class of drugs called SGLT-2 inhibitors. They are capable of reducing blood
glucose by operating independently of insulin action. Christophe Arbet-Engels,
vice president of metabolic-clinical development and medical affairs at
Boehringer stated that most of oral type 2 diabetes treatments that are
presently available are based on actions of the hormone insulin to lower
elevated blood glucose. The upcoming SGLT-2 inhibitor class blocks glucose
re-absorption in the kidney, thereby eliminating glucose via urine.
The trials are being closely monitored to test
the effectiveness and safety of the empagliflozin drug. It has been
administered alone or along with metformin adult patients with type 2 diabetes.
Data regarding the trials are recorded immediately. Three trials of their
diabetes drug Tradjenta, which has already been approved, revealed that the
drug reduces hemoglobin A1c in senior patients with type 2 diabetes. A1c is a
standard measure to regulate blood sugar levels.
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