Effects of the alpha-glucosidase inhibitor 1 desoxynojirimycin (Bay m 1099) on postprandial blood glucose, serum insulin and C-peptide levels in type II diabetic patients.

Bay m 1099 is a newly developed inhibitor of intestinal alpha-glucosidase. Its ability to lower postprandial plasma glucose, serum insulin and C-peptide levels in Type II diabetics has been investigated. Fifteen obese Type II diabetic patients with inadequate metabolic control during sulphonylurea treatment received a standardized diet and were treated either with Bay m 1099, b.d. (100 mg before breakfast and dinner) or placebo for 3 days, according to a double-blind cross-over design. The postprandial blood glucose level was significantly lower during Bay m 1099 treatment compared to placebo after breakfast and dinner (AUC after breakfast p less than 0.001). The reduced postprandial hyperglycaemia was associated with a decrease in meal stimulated serum insulin and C-peptide levels. Thus, Bay m 1099 may be a useful addition in the treatment of Type II diabetic patients.