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Cholesterol drug may improve blood sugar control in diabetics

Category: Diabetes

An experimental drug that has been shown to boost levels HDL cholesterol may also improve HbA1c test scores in diabetics, according to a recent investigation published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association.

Torcetrapib, a type of cholesterol ester transfer protein inhibitor, is an experimental medication that is currently being evaluated for its potential to raise HDL levels, which is a beneficial form of cholesterol. During one clinical trial, researchers from the University of Sydney found that it may have benefits for diabetics.

During the course of the study, the team found that diabetics taking the drug had lower blood sugar, higher insulin and improved long-term blood sugar control as measured by HbA1c testing.

"The possibility that cholesterol ester transfer protein inhibitor drugs may not only reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, but may also improve the control of blood sugar in people with diabetes, is an exciting prospect that may translate into real health benefits for people with diabetes," said Philip Barter, who led the study.