Oramed announces publication of GLP-1 analog formulation in Journal of Diabetes

Oramed Pharmaceuticals Inc. (OTCBB: ORMP.OB) ( http://www.oramed.com), a developer of oral drug delivery solutions, announces a publication in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology's November issue describing evaluation of the company's glucagon-like peptide- (GLP-1) analog formulation (ORMD-0901) in regulating glucose excursions in animal models.

GLP-1 and its analogs harbor significant therapeutic potential for management of Type 2 diabetes mellitus through their broad physiological impact on glucose regulation-related mechanisms. However, the naturally secreted GLP-1 is degraded within minutes and in cases of impaired release or activity, is typically substituted by exogenously supplied, long-lived analogues. To date, these drugs are only available in injectable forms, leading to systemic effects upon administration as well as unsatisfactory patient compliance and adherence.

With the objective of offering a safer, more practical and physiologically relevant alternative, Oramed has applied its oral drug delivery platform to the GLP-1 analog family. High sugar-content meals were delivered to animals in the presence or absence of ORMD-0901, followed by close monitoring of blood glucose levels. Specific formulations were found to effectively blunt expected glucose surges in both ORMD-0901-treated porcines and canines. The two animal models used for testing the performance of ORMD-0901, indicated retained drug activity when delivered using Oramed's oral drug delivery platform.

Oramed has already embarked on clinical testing of its ORMD-0901 product to assess the formulation's safety and efficacy in healthy individuals. Further testing and development are expected to significantly contribute to current diabetes control options and success rates.

In addition to an oral GLP1 analog capsule, the Company's flagship product is an oral insulin capsule. The Company is currently working towards submission of an IND to the FDA for a Phase 2 clinical trial.

To view the article abstract please click on the link below: http://www.journalofdst.org/November2010/PDF/Abstract/VOL-4-6-ORG20-ELDOR-ABS TRACT.pdf

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