Diabetes medicine halts progression of Parkinson’s, study says

Researchers are interested in exploring a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists

A drug used to treat diabetes slowed the progression of motor problems associated with Parkinson’s disease, according to a study published this week in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Parkinson’s is a devastating nervous system disease that affects 10 million people worldwide and there is no cure. Symptoms include rhythmic tremors, slow movements, slurred speech, and balance problems, which worsen over time.

The researchers are interested in exploring a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists – which mimic a gut hormone and are commonly used to treat diabetes and obesity – for their potential to protect neurons. To date, however, evidence of clinical benefit in patients has been limited and initial studies have been inconclusive.

To the new article156 early-stage Parkinson’s patients were recruited across France and then randomly chosen to receive lixisenatide, sold under the brand names Adlyxin and Lyxumia and made by Sanofi, or a placebo.

After a year of follow-up, the group given the treatment, which is administered via injection, saw no worsening of motor symptoms, while those given the placebo did. The effect was “modest” according to the article, and was only evident when assessed by professionals “who had them perform tasks; walking, standing up, moving their hands,” said author Olivier Rascol, a neurologist at the University of Toulouse .

But, he added, this could simply be because Parkinson’s disease slowly worsens, and with another year of follow-up, the differences could become much more noticeable.

“This is the first time we have clear results showing that we had an impact on the progression of disease symptoms and that we explain this with a neuroprotective effect,” Rascol said.

Watch the video with André Forastieri’s commentary.

André Forastieri is a journalist and entrepreneur, founder of Homework and the content and connections agency Compasso, as well as a mentor to professionals and executives. Find out more aboutandreforastieri.com.br

.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.