The effect of an aldose reductase inhibitor (Sorbinil) on diabetic neuropathy and neural function of the retina: a double-blind study.

37 patients with diabetic neuropathy were randomized into 2 equal groups and given daily doses of 200 mg or 50 mg of Sorbinil - a potent aldose-reductase inhibitor - in a double-blind 4-week period between 2 periods on placebo. The purpose was to assess the role of the drug on various neurophysiological parameters and its clinical effect. No difference was shown either in the placebo periods compared to Sorbinil treatment or between the 2 groups on the neurophysiological parameters but there was a statistically significant effect on overall subjective well-being. The drug had no side-effects in the present study.