Diabetes drugs

Almost a decade ago, a new wave of diabetes drugs hit the pharmacies, with promises to lower blood-sugar levels. Yet they failed to alleviate one of the biggest concerns for Type 2 diabetes sufferers – their increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Last year, two new drugs showed signs of slashing mortality rates from diabetes related CVD. Empagliflozin modifies the progression of heart disease by working with the kidney, while liraglutide has a comprehensive effect on many organs. In light of these results, a distinguished panel of doctors and researchers, assembled by the Cleveland Clinic in the US, predicts that, this year, there will be a total shift in the line-up of drugs prescribed for diabetes – as well as a wave of research into new avenues targeting Type 2 diabetes and its related diseases.