DiObex is developing a modified form of ketoconazole (enantiomer) (DIO-902) as an investigational new drug for the treatment of the elevated blood sugar associated with type 2 diabetes. Other benefits may include reduced total and LDL cholesterol, and reduced blood pressure. With chronic treatment, reduced visceral fat may also be seen. Ketoconazole (racemic) is an approved drug for the treatment of a variety of fungal infections. The approved racemic ketoconazole inhibits cortisol synthesis. In patients with Cushings Disease racemic ketoconazole reduces glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure. Elevated cortisol may be a contributing causal factor in the development of type 2 diabetes; clinical trials with racemic ketoconazole have been carried out in these patients. The results of these clinical trials support the concept of treating type 2 diabetes through a lowering of plasma cortisol and provide evidence of the safety and tolerability of racemic ketoconazole. Racemic ketoconazole has, however, been associated with liver toxicity which is generally mild in nature. However, in rare cases (1:10,000 to 15,000 patients) severe liver toxicity may occur, and in extremely rare cases this adverse event may be irreversible and life-threatening. Preclinical results suggest that DIO-902 may be both safer and more efficacious than the racemic mixture.
The study is designed to test the safety, tolerability of a newly developed form of ketoconazole (DIO-902) for the treatment of elevated blood sugars in type 2 diabetes. This study also will also examine the effect of the drug on total and LDL cholesterol and blood pressure. Elevated cortisol may contribute to the development of Type II diabetes. The investigational drug DIO-902 may reduce the level of cortisol in blood and therefore provide better control of blood sugar levels in patients with Type II diabetes.