From the Research
Imeglimin is a novel oral antidiabetic medication that works through a unique mechanism of action targeting mitochondrial function, and its effectiveness in controlling blood sugar has been demonstrated in several clinical studies, with a reduction in HbA1c levels of approximately 0.5-0.9% when used as monotherapy 1.
Mechanism of Action
Imeglimin improves glucose metabolism by enhancing insulin secretion in response to glucose, increasing insulin sensitivity in muscles, and reducing glucose production in the liver. It acts on mitochondrial bioenergetics, specifically inhibiting complex III of the respiratory chain while preserving ATP production, which helps protect beta cells from oxidative stress and prevents cell death 2.
Duration of Action
The medication has a duration of action that typically allows for twice-daily dosing, with each dose lasting approximately 12 hours in the body, although its half-life ranges from 9.03 to 20.2 hours 3.
Effectiveness in Controlling Blood Sugar
Clinical studies have shown that Imeglimin effectively reduces HbA1c levels, making it moderately effective for blood sugar control. It appears particularly beneficial for elderly patients and those with renal impairment, as it has demonstrated a favorable safety profile with minimal risk of hypoglycemia and no significant weight gain 4, 5.
Key Points
- Imeglimin has a unique mechanism of action targeting mitochondrial function
- It improves glucose metabolism by enhancing insulin secretion and increasing insulin sensitivity
- The medication has a duration of action that typically allows for twice-daily dosing
- Clinical studies have shown that Imeglimin effectively reduces HbA1c levels, making it moderately effective for blood sugar control
- Imeglimin represents a promising addition to diabetes management, especially for patients who cannot tolerate or have inadequate response to traditional antidiabetic medications 1, 3