Insulin use also dropped for people taking the medication, suggesting more effective blood sugar control. And, body weight decreased between 2 pounds and 3.5 pounds for those taking the medication. Weight increased by almost 1 pound for those on placebo, according to the study.
In addition, the researchers found that both systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels went down more for those on the drug compared to those on placebo.
"In this study, dapagliflozin seemed to improve glucose control and lower the need for insulin, as well as cause some weight loss," said Dr. Sue Kirkman, senior vice president of medical affairs and community information of the American Diabetes Association.
"This is an interesting study on a new medication that's under development. It has a novel mechanism of action, but there have been some ongoing concerns about the safety of this class of medications, and none has been approved by the FDA yet," she noted.
More information
Learn more about type 2 diabetes and currently approved treatments from the American Diabetes Association.
SOURCES: John Wilding, D.M., professor, medicine, honorary consulting physician and head, department of obesity and endocrinology, Institute of Aging and Chronic Disease, Clinical Sciences Centre, University Hospital Aintree, Liverpool, England; Sue Kirkman, M.D., senior vice president, medical affairs and community information, American Diabetes Association; March 20, 2012, Annals of Internal Medicine
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