Current type 1 diabetes medications
At present, those with type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes, use injectable or inhaled insulins to survive. Sometimes, they also use Symlin, an injectable non-insulin drug that makes patients feel full at meals, slows the rate at which food moves from the stomach into the small intestine, and stops the release of glucagon, a hormone that tells the liver to release sugar into the bloodstream.
In contrast, those with type 2 diabetes have the option of taking oral medications in addition to using injectable and inhaled insulins and making lifestyle changes. This all may change in March 2019 if the FDA approves manufacturer Sanofi Aventis’ new drug application for Zynquista.
How is Zynquista different?
If approved, Zynquista would be the first oral antidiabetic drug for use by adults with type 1 diabetes. Zynquista belongs to a new class of medications known as SGLT1/2 inhibitors, which reduce blood sugar levels by increasing the excretion of glucose via urine, and is to be used in combination with insulin.
Are there any similar medications available?
Currently, there are no medications available for type 1 diabetics that are similar to Zynquista. SGLT2 inhibitors, like Invokana, Farxiga and Jardiance are available, but only for type 2 diabetics.
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