Novo Nordisk says phase 2 study of liraglutide improves insulin secretion in type 2 diabetes

By Lisa Kerner

Charlotte, N.C., June 13 - Novo Nordisk said liraglutide increased the maximum capacity of beta cells to secrete insulin and increased the "first phase" insulin response typically diminished in patients with type 2 diabetes.

The study findings are part of a larger, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial that demonstrated liraglutide reduced levels of A1C, a measure of average blood glucose level.

Participants in the 14-week study also lost significantly more weight than those on a placebo, according to a company news release.

"The prevalence of type 2 diabetes continues to increase, and we need to research and develop new therapies for the condition," said study investigator Sten Madsbad in the release.

"We are excited by these results as they demonstrate that liraglutide monotherapy significantly improves blood glucose control without risk of major or minor hypoglycemia, is well tolerated, lowers body weight and may help improve the body's ability to produce insulin."

Liraglutide is a long-acting analog of the naturally occurring hormone Glucagon-Like Peptide-1, released from the gastrointestinal tract during food ingestion.

Novo Nordisk presented its study findings at the 66th Annual Meeting of the American Diabetes Association in Washington, D.C.

Based in Denmark, Novo Nordisk is a health care company specializing in diabetes care and hemostasis management, growth hormone therapy and hormone therapy for women.

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