Azemiglitazone

Azemiglitazone is a pharmaceutical compound that belongs to the class of thiazolidinediones, which are used primarily as antidiabetic drugs. These drugs function by improving insulin sensitivity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Mechanism of Action

Azemiglitazone works by activating the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ), a type of nuclear receptor. Activation of PPAR-γ influences the transcription of various genes involved in glucose and lipid metabolism. This leads to an increase in insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues, such as adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and the liver.

Clinical Use

Azemiglitazone is primarily indicated for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is used to improve glycemic control in conjunction with diet and exercise. It may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic agents such as metformin or sulfonylureas.

Side Effects

Common side effects of azemiglitazone include:

• Weight gain
• Edema
• Increased risk of heart failure

Less common but serious side effects may include:

• Hepatotoxicity
• Increased risk of bone fractures

Contraindications

Azemiglitazone is contraindicated in patients with:

• Heart failure
• Severe hepatic impairment
• Known hypersensitivity to the drug or its components

Pharmacokinetics

Azemiglitazone is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and undergoes extensive metabolism in the liver. It is primarily excreted via the kidneys. The half-life of azemiglitazone allows for once-daily dosing.

Research and Development

Azemiglitazone is still under investigation in various clinical trials to better understand its efficacy and safety profile. Ongoing research aims to compare its effectiveness with other thiazolidinediones like pioglitazone and rosiglitazone.

See Also

• Thiazolidinedione
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus
• Insulin resistance
• Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor

External Links

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