[#2001-08] Maitake SX-Fraction: Possible Hypoglycemic Effect on Diabetes Mellitus, Sensuke Konno

Maitake SX-Fraction: Possible Hypoglycemic Effect on Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic dis­order characterized by persistent hyperglycemia affecting more than 16 million people in the United States and some 250 million people worldwide.¹ The prevalence of diabetes is increasing by 4–5 percent every year with an estimated 40–45 percent of people over 65 years old at risk.²

To enhance peripheral insulin sensitivi­ty, pharmaceuticals, such as troglitazone⁸ and metformin,^9,10 have been used. Although improved glycemic control with these drugs has been reported, there may be potential adverse effects. Metformin may cause lactic acidosis, presenting as an impairment of renal function, cardiogenic or septic shock, or liver failure.⁹ However, because severe hepatotoxicity, troglita­zone has been recently taken off the U.S. market. This raises questions: Are there alternative means to overcome insulin resistance safely? Or are any safer natural agents available? Such agents could be a key to a better treatment for patients with type 2 diabetes…… Maitake SX-Fraction.