A New α-Glucosidase Inhibitor Prevents Diabetes in Patients at Risk

In several studies, lifestyle modifications or pharmacologic interventions (with metformin, rosiglitazone, or acarbose) have prevented progression from impaired glucose tolerance to type 2 diabetes (JW Gen Med May 8 2001, Feb 19 2002, and Oct 12 2006). Lifestyle modifications seem to be more effective but more labor-intensive and less sustainable than pharmacologic interventions. In a manufacturer-supported randomized Japanese trial, researchers evaluated voglibose, an investigational oral α-glucosidase inhibitor that is similar to acarbose.

Nearly 1800 patients who had impaired glucose tolerance and at least one other diabetes risk factor received voglibose or placebo three times daily, along with guidance on diet and exercise. Patients wer…