By David Liu, PHD

Wednesday Aug 22, 2012 (foodconsumer.org) -- Using a proton pump inhibitor called pantoprazole helps type 2 diabetes mellitus patients, according to a study published in March, 2012 in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism.

The study led by Pawan Kumar Singh of Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research in Chandigarh, India and colleagues showed that  patients taking pantoprazole for 12 weeks increased plasma gastrin and insulin levels, improved β-cell function and significantly decreased HbA1c (Glycosylated hemoglobin), which is a common measure of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Proton pump inhibitors are known to influence glucose-insulin homeostasis by increasing plasma gastrin. The current trial may be the first of its kind to evaluate the effect of pantoprazole on glucose-insulin homeostasis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, according to the authors.

In this 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were assigned to either the pantoprazole or placebo treatment.  HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and gastrin were measured at baseline and at 12 weeks.

In addition to its beneficial effect on gastrin, insulin, and β-cell function, pantoprazole also decreased levels of HbA1c, which is desirable.

The researchers concluded "Pantoprazole therapy increases plasma gastrin and insulin levels, thereby improving the glycemic control in T2DM (tyoe 2 diabetes mellitus).

An estimated 24 million Americans live with type 2 diabetes mellitus, according to the U.S. government.  The medical condition has no cure, but can be treated.  Studies show that patients may not have to solely rely on medications to control their blood suagr levels, which is the core problem with type 2 diabetes mellitus.  A modified lifestyle may help improve the condition as well.