New Diabetes Drug To Be Tested, UK

Main Category: Diabetes
Article Date: 06 Dec 2007 - 4:00 PDT

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A new drug that could combat diabetes and extend the human lifespan is being tested next year.

The drug from Sirtris Pharmaceuticals is based on two chemicals that mimic resveratrol, a compound found in the skin of red grapes and used as a health supplement.

Researchers say it has been shown to reverse the symptoms of diabetes in mice as well as reducing the impact of a high-fat diet.

They believe the pill could also help prevent diseases including cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer's.

Early days

"Although this is interesting research we have to approach it with caution," said Sara Spiers, Care Manager at Diabetes UK.

"It is very early days yet and more studies need to be carried out before we can see if the same results are found in humans."

http://www.diabetes.org.uk