AZD1656 reduces blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes, but loses efficacy over time

In this study researchers examined the effect of a new drug, AZD1656, and its ability to control blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients.

Many different drugs, such as metformin (glucophage), are used to control blood sugar levels in T2D patients. However, not all patients manage to properly control their disease, and many patients experience side effects such as hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar levels). This emphasizes the need for continued research into new therapeutic targets. A new class of drugs called glucokinase activators are currently under investigation. Activating the protein glucokinase has the potential to reduce blood sugar in several ways. Glucokinase causes the liver to store sugar instead of releasing it into the blood, and signals the pancreas to produce insulin, which causes sugar to enter the cells. Previous, yet small, studies have shown that the glucokinase activator AZD1656 can reduce blood sugar. However, further studies are needed to determine the best dosage of the drug, and its long-term effects.

Researchers compared 458 T2D patients whose blood sugar levels were not well controlled by metformin. Patients were assigned to receive AZD1656, an existing diabetes drug (glipizide or glucotrol), or a placebo. AZD1656 patients received one of 4 different doses.

All dosages of AZD1656 reduced blood sugar levels compared to the placebo, but to approximately the same extent as glipizide. Fewer AZD1656 patients suffered from hypoglycemia compared to those treated with glipizide. Unfortunately, blood sugar levels started to increase approximately 4 months after treatment with AZD1656. In addition, 18-22% of all patients treated with AZD1656 experienced an increase in triglyceridelevels (a serious risk factor for heart disease).

AZD1656 appears to safely decrease blood sugar levels in T2D, but these effects do not seem to be sustained.

AZD1656 is still under development and further research is needed before this drug enters common use. Several of the authors of this article are employees of AstaZeneca, which is developing AZD1656.

Consult with your physician regarding new medications being developed to control blood sugar levels.