Researchers from the University of Alberta, along with collaborators from other institutions, have made a promising discovery that suggests an older class of antipsychotic drugs could become a novel therapy for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
This breakthrough brings hope to those who cannot tolerate existing diabetes treatments.
Current Diabetes Treatments
Metformin is currently one of the most commonly prescribed medications for type 2 diabetes. However, approximately 15% of patients experience intolerable side effects when using it.
Additionally, insulin secretagogues, another class of diabetes drugs, are less effective for individuals with advanced-stage diabetes who require different treatment options.
The research centered on an enzyme called succinyl CoA:3-ketoacid CoA transferase (SCOT).
This enzyme plays a vital role in the body’s process of converting ketones into energy. Ketones are molecules produced when the body breaks down fat for fuel.
A Potential Discovery
Using computer modeling, the scientists sought drugs that could interact with SCOT. Their investigation led them to an older generation of antipsychotic drugs known as diphenylbutylpiperidines (DPBP).
Among these drugs, one in particular, called pimozide, showed potential as an anti-diabetic agent.
The DPBP drugs were found to improve blood sugar control by preventing muscles from using ketones as a source of energy.
This inhibition of SCOT is believed to be the mechanism through which these antipsychotic drugs could effectively treat diabetes.
Developing a new drug is a complex and costly process that involves rigorous clinical trials to ensure safety and efficacy. Repurposing existing drugs for new uses can expedite the process and reduce both time and costs.
While these findings are promising, clinical trials are necessary to confirm the effectiveness and safety of DPBP drugs in the treatment of diabetes.
Such trials will provide essential data to determine the viability of these antipsychotic drugs for individuals living with diabetes.
Antipsychotic Drugs: Their Primary Purpose
Antipsychotic drugs are primarily designed to treat mental health conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression.
They work by altering the levels of certain brain chemicals, called neurotransmitters, to alleviate symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking.
Some antipsychotic drugs, including older-generation varieties discussed in this article, have shown potential therapeutic benefits for other medical conditions like type 2 diabetes.
However, it’s crucial to understand that antipsychotic drugs can have serious side effects and should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional.
In Conclusion
The research conducted by John Ussher and his team, published in the journal Diabetes, has opened up exciting possibilities for repurposing older antipsychotic drugs as a potential treatment for type 2 diabetes.
This discovery offers hope for individuals who struggle with existing diabetes therapies and emphasizes the importance of further clinical investigation in this promising area of research.
If you care about blood sugar, please read studies about why blood sugar is high in the morning, and how to cook sweet potatoes without increasing blood sugar.
For more information about diabetes, please see recent studies about how to eat to prevent type 2 diabetes, and 5 vitamins that may prevent complication in diabetes.
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