Phase II study of NewMet (Elcelyx Therapeutics) offers improved treatment for Type 2 Diabetes patients

A Phase IIa study of NewMet (metformin delayed-release), from Elcelyx Therapeutics, suggests that the primary site of action of this Type 2 Diabetes medicine is in the lower bowel rather than in the circulation. Data demonstrated similar reductions from baseline in fasting plasma glucose and postprandial glucose, despite a 45%-57% reduction in circulating metformin in the high and low dose NewMet arms, respectively.

"In the US, 40% of patients with Diabetes are not taking metformin primarily due to issues of GI tolerability or due to the contraindication of their renal impairment. Moreover, of the 60% who are taking metformin, only about 40% are able to titrate to fully effective doses due to tolerability issues," said John Buse, Professor of Medicine and Director, Diabetes Care Center at University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. "The NewMet results to date hold the promise of addressing all these patient segments." Results were presented at the 2013 American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions.