Albiglutide: a new GLP-1 analog for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
BACKGROUND
Despite the wide array of treatments available, a significant number of patients with type 2 diabetes continue to remain uncontrolled. The discovery of the incretin hormones and their role in glucose homeostasis has brought about a new class of medications called the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogs. This new class of medications provides the benefits of weight loss as well as a lack of hypoglycemia. However, the currently available agents require once or twice daily injections.


METHODS
Relevant literature will be discussed on albiglutide, a new GLP-1 analog in Phase III clinical trials. Several clinical trials examining the use of albiglutide as combination therapy are currently ongoing.


RESULTS
To date, results of clinical trials suggest that albiglutide may provide a more attractive dosing profile compared with the currently available GLP-1 analogs.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of ongoing trials will help define the role of albiglutide in treating patients with type 2 diabetes.
St Onge
Erin L
EL
University of Florida College of Pharmacy, Orlando Campus, 2725 S Binion Rd, Apopka, FL 32703-8504, USA. stonge@cop.ufl.edu
Miller
Shannon A
SA
D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D052216:Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D054795:Incretins / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007279:Injections, Subcutaneous; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents; D054795:Incretins; C534611:rGLP-1 protein; D052216:Glucagon-Like Peptide 1