EFFECTS OF THE COMBINATION OF ORG-2766 AND NIMODIPINE ON NERVE-CONDUCTION VELOCITY IN STREPTOZOTOCIN-DIABETIC RATS

The combination of drugs with different modes of action could improve treatment outcome in diabetic neuropathy, which has a multifactorial p athogenesis. Nimodipine is an L-type calcium channel blocker with card iovascular and neuroprotective effects, whereas Org 2766 is an ACTH(4- 9) analog that has neuroprotective and neurotrophic effects. Nimodipin e and Org 2766 each have a beneficial effect on diabetic neuropathy in rats when used in isolation. The effect of combination of these drugs on existing nerve conduction deficits in streptozotocin-diabetic rats was examined in the present study. The combination of Org 2766 and ni modipine proved to be more effective in ameliorating motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities in diabetic rats than either of the drugs alone. It is concluded that combination of drugs with different modes of action is a promising lead in the development of effective therapy for diabetic neuropathy.