Boost for diabetes

A DRUG that reduces blood sugar and promotes weight loss can cut the chances of atrisk patients developing type-2 diabetes, research shows.

A trial in 27 countries found treatment with liraglutide, which interacts with brain regions that control appetite and energy intake, had a dramatic effect on diabetes risk in obese and “pre-diabetes” patients on the way to becoming chronically diabetic.

“On the basis of our findings, liraglutide ... can provide us with a new therapeutic approach,” UK trial leader Professor John Wilding said.