Daiichi Sankyo diabetes treatment ‘could be a great benefit’

Daiichi Sankyo has reported that its compound for the treatment of type two diabetes mellitus, WelChol (colesevelam HLl) may be the first compound available for the lowering of LDL cholesterol that can also offer improvements in glycemic control.

Last year, at the Scientific Sessions of the American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association, the company presented the results of clinical studies that showed that administration of WelChol combined with antidiabetic treatment resulted in mean A1C reductions when compared to administration with a placebo.

Following the presentation of these results, the company has submitted a supplemental new drug application for the compound with the Food and Drug Administration in the US.

Ronald B Goldberg, associate director of the Diabetes Research Institute, commented that doctors are constantly seeking improved combinations of medication for improved and effective glycemic control.

“The same can be said for LDL-cholesterol as well,” he said.

“As a result, a compound that can help lower both of these important cardiovascular risk factors, A1C and LDL-cholesterol, can be of great benefit for many patients,” he added.

In November last year, Daiichi Sankyo announced that it would effect a simplified merger with its wholly-owned subsidiaries Sankyo and Daiichi Pharmaceutical.