MSD diabetes drug gives lower risk of symptomatic hypoglycemia

Merck, Sharp and Dohme (MSD) has announced the release of a new analysis at the scientific sessions of the American Diabetes Association regarding the use of Januvia (sitagliptin) in patients with type 2 diabetes.

The analysis showed a 93 per cent lower risk of symptomatic hypoglycemia in patients administered with the compound compared to those treated with sulfonylurea glipizide on a background of metformin.

A lower risk in the study population was seen in patients aged over 65 and those under 65.

Januvia is a selective once-daily dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor that operates by enhancing the natural incretin system.

It works only when blood sugar is elevated to address diminished insulin levels arising as a result of beta-cell dysfunction and when alpha-cell and beta-cell dysfunction results in uncontrolled production of glucose by the liver.

Nir Barzilai, professor of the department of medicine and department of molecular genetics at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, said: “When treating patients with type 2 diabetes, it is important for physicians to balance lowering blood glucose levels with avoiding hypoglycemia.”

In October 2007, the US Food and Drug Administration approved supplemental drug applications for Januvia to expand its labelling for a number of new combinations, including with metformin.