LX4211, a novel sodium glucose transporter 1 and 2 (SGLT1 and SGLT2) inhibitor, was proven to enhance the affects of widely prescribed diabetes drug sitagliptin, a DDP-4 (dipeptidyl peptidase) inhibitor, reported Lexicon Pharmaceuticals.

Results of the study showed 18 patients with type 2 diabetes given single doses of LX4211 in combination with sitagliptin produced lower blood glucose levels after meals (postprandial) as compared to being treated with sitagliptin alone.

"Alone, LX4211 produces rapid improvement in postprandial blood glucose by delaying intestinal glucose absorption and increasing urinary glucose excretion,” said Dr. Pablo Lapuerta, senior vice president of clinical development and chief medical officer at Lexicon. “When combined, the two agents produce enhanced benefits on blood glucose, insulin, GLP-1 and PYY relative to sitagliptin alone, suggesting these agents work together and could provide additional benefits for patients with type 2 diabetes."

The study was design to assess pharmacodynamic parameters, including postprandial glucose, insulin, total and active GLP-1, PYY and urinary glucose excretion.