GI Dynamics' EndoBarrier reduces need for insulin

GI Dynamics (ASX:GID) has presented research showing that its EndoBarrier Therapy device was able to significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for insulin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Findings from a retrospective analysis of Australian patients were presented at the American Association for Clinical Endocrinology’s 23rd Annual Meeting and Scientific Conference.

Of the first 100 Australian patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes to receive EndoBarrier Therapy, 11 required the use of insulin to manage their diabetes.

Following placement of the therapy, six of these were able to cease the use of insulin. The remaining five were able to decrease their use of insulin therapy in terms of injection frequency, daily dose or both.

“While based on a small number of patients, these findings show that EndoBarrier Therapy has a real, immediate impact on glycaemic levels,” commented Professor Reginald V Lord of St Vincent’s Clinic and Macquarie Hospital.

“We are pleased that EndoBarrier Therapy offers the opportunity for patients to reduce their reliance on insulin, which is often viewed as a last resort treatment for diabetes.”

The 100 patients also experienced a median weight loss of 11.1 kg at the one-year follow-up point.

EndoBarrier is a flexible, tube-shaped liner, designed to be inserted endoscopically and serve as a barrier between food and a portion of the intestinal wall in patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes.

GI Dynamics recently presented research into the potential mechanism of action behind the treatment. The data indicates that treated patients have increased levels of bile acid, an effect similar to a common type of gastric bypass surgery.

GI Dynamics (ASX:GID) shares were trading 2.8% higher at $0.55 as of around 2 pm on Friday