August 3, 2006

 SIU Med School Conducting Diabetes Study

Adults with diabetes are being recruited by Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield as part of a national study to determine the effectiveness of a new investigational drug. The drug, known as GW677954, is being evaluated for use by SIU's endocrinology division as part of a Phase II clinical trial study at sites in the U.S. under guidelines set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

"Diabetes affects more than 18 million people in the U.S. and we hope that this study will help us determine if this new investigational formulation can be used as a treatment for diabetes," said Dr. Romesh K. Khardori, Ph.D., professor and chief of endocrinology at SIU who is directing the study.

Volunteers between the ages of 18 and 70 are being sought. Participants should have been diagnosed with diabetes but not using medication to regulate it. Potential participants will be evaluated for other criteria and eventually complete a physical examination and other tests before beginning. The study lasts about 19 weeks with 10 clinic visits. There is no charge to the participants for the tests and medications related to the study, which is sponsored by GlaxoSmithKline. Results can be shared with the participant's personal physician.

If you are interested in participating in the study, contact Richard Pamenter, Ph.D., Division of Endocrinology, SIU School of Medicine, by phone, 217-545-5424 weekdays, or via email endoresearch@siumed.edu .

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