A New Drug…..Too Good To Be True
The most exciting news in diabetes is the recent report of a new drug which seems too good to be true. The drug is called Rimonabant (Acomplia), and is an oral agent which is a selective cannabinoid type 1 receptor antagonist. This means that it can block the receptors that are activated by marijuana. The drug has been shown to have a dramatic effect on patients trying to lose weight, to significantly reduce waist circumference, to lower triglyceride levels, and to increase HDL levels! As can be recognized by anyone in the field of diabetes, these are the hallmarks of the metabolic syndrome that can evolve into full blown diabetes. Consequently, it is expected that this drug will be a blockbuster for diabetic patients. Tune in for more on this novel drug in the near future. |
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Nasal Spray To Combat Obesity
A novel protein produced in the gut inhibits food intake. This naturally occurring protein is called peptide YY3-36 (PYY3-36) and is produced in response to food consumption, creating a feeling of satiety. Several studies using this agent either intravenously or via a nasal spray have shown a reduction of approximately 30% in food consumption. This is very good news for many Americans who are rightfully considered obese and are anxious for help. |
Another Option For Glycemic Control Weight lifting has been shown to be another option for achieving glycemic control. Customarily, most physicians recommend aerobic activity and dieting as initial steps towards better glucose control. Overweight patients who have led a very sedentary lifestyle, however, usually find it difficult to start a strict aerobic schedule. These individuals may "jump start" the process by weight lifting. A recent study showed a drop in their HbA1c, a drop in blood pressure, an increase in lean body mass, and a consequent improvement in their diabetes.
An optimal regimen would probably include elements from both weight lifting and aerobic conditioning, however, before embarking on any physical activity regimen, be sure to consult with your doctor.
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Downhill Walking Better For Diabetics Downhill walking may be better for diabetics than walking uphill. Curiously, in a small study from Austria , Dr. Drexel showed a better improvement in glucose tolerance testing in a group of non-diabetics when walking downhill when compared with a group of non-diabetics walking the same distance uphill. Overweight individuals will obviously find it easier walking downhill than up. Intuitively I would think the opposite, but the body works in mysterious ways……. |
Success In Curing Diabetes In Mice
One last bit of information of great interest to all diabetics has recently been reported. A Dr. Faustman from Harvard has reported success in curing diabetes in mice. She was able to transplant healthy islets (cells producing insulin) in diabetic mice and cause reversal of their diabetes. Typically, these islets would be destroyed by the immune system. Dr. Faustman gave the mice a booster for the immune system – BCG – which destroys the killer cells. This has not yet been tried in humans, but it may hold some hope. |
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