Metabolex initiates phase II/III trial of insulin sensitizer

A novel insulin sensitizer, metaglidasen has been shown in a previously conducted phase II trial in patients with diabetes to be well tolerated and to lower blood glucose, triglycerides and uric acid levels without causing any increase in weight gain or edema, the common side effects of the currently marketed insulin sensitizers from the thiazolidinedione (TZD) class.

“Previous clinical trial findings suggest that metaglidasen is effective in controlling blood glucose levels, with a promising side effect profile. We believe metaglidasen has the potential to markedly improve the standard of care for patients with type 2 diabetes,” said Dr Harold Van Wart, president and CEO of Metabolex.

The newly initiated trial will compare 200, 400 and 600mg daily doses of metaglidasen with 30mg of the TZD Actos in approximately 400 patients with type 2 diabetes taking concomitant insulin.