AtheroGenics says stops highest dose of drug in diabetes trial

Nov 9 (Reuters) - AtheroGenics Inc AGIX.O said it was discontinuing the 300 mg dose of its experimental drug, AGI-1067, for diabetes in a late-stage study, after a review of the ARISE trial data.

The move comes after a review of the occurrence of adverse effects on the liver with the 300 mg dose seen in the ARISE trial and discussions with U.S health regulators. The trial will continue with the 75 mg and 150 mg doses, the company said.

AGI-1067 failed as an experimental heart drug in the ARISE trial, but the pharmaceutical company found the drug could, in theory, help fight diabetes and is studying the drug in a late-stage study to determine the optimal dose for glycemic control. (Reporting by Jennifer Robin Raj in Bangalore; Editing by Deepak Kannan)