Breakthrough Diabetes Pill Preserves Muscle, Boosts Metabolism

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University have developed a new oral drug that boosts metabolic activity in muscle rather than altering appetite like GLP-1 drugs. Early trials suggest it improves blood sugar control and fat metabolism while preserving muscle mass, with fewer side effects. Because it acts through a different mechanism, it could be paired with GLP-1 treatments for even stronger results. According to the study published in Cell, the new treatment works by targeting a specific protein in muscle cells, which increases the breakdown of fat and improves insulin sensitivity. This approach is distinct from GLP-1-based medications, such as Ozempic, which primarily work by reducing appetite and slowing gastric emptying. "We are excited about the potential of this new treatment to improve metabolic health without the drawbacks of current GLP-1 treatments," said Dr. Maria Eriksson, lead researcher on the study. "Our results suggest that this approach could be a game-changer for patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity." The new treatment has shown promising results in early trials, with participants experiencing significant improvements in blood sugar control and fat metabolism. Additionally, the treatment was well-tolerated, with fewer side effects compared to GLP-1-based medications. The development of this new treatment is significant, as it addresses a major limitation of current GLP-1-based medications. These medications can be effective in reducing blood sugar levels, but they often come with side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In contrast, the new treatment targets the muscle cells directly, reducing the risk of these side effects. The study's findings have important implications for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. According to the International Diabetes Federation, over 460 million people worldwide live with diabetes, and the number is expected to rise to 700 million by 2045. Obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes, and the development of effective treatments is critical to addressing this growing public health concern. The researchers plan to continue testing the new treatment in larger, more diverse populations to confirm its safety and efficacy. If successful, this treatment could provide a valuable new option for patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity, offering improved metabolic health and reduced side effects. In an interview, Dr. Eriksson noted that the new treatment could be used in combination with other therapies to achieve even stronger results. "We believe that this treatment has the potential to be a powerful tool in the fight against type 2 diabetes and obesity," she said..