New data backs Novartis diabetes drug combination

LONDON, Sept 9 (Reuters) - Novartis AG's (NOVN.VX) drug Galvus is better tolerated and as effective as commonly prescribed anti-diabetics known as thiazolidinediones (TZDs), when added to the older drug metformin, researchers said on Tuesday.

In particular, diabetic patients treated with Galvus did not gain weight -- a common side effect of other type 2 diabetes drugs -- regardless of their race, body mass index or age.

The latest clinical trial result findings were presented at the annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes in Rome.

Galvus, which is approved in Europe but not in the United States, is a so-called DPP-4 drug and a rival to Merck & Co's (MRK.N) Januvia -- currently the only DPP-4 inhibitor approved in both the United States and Europe.

The 12-week study showed that 100 mg of Galvus once-daily was as effective as TZDs in controlling blood sugar levels and patients treated with Galvus lost weight, whereas those on TZDs put weight on.

Weight is important as many patients with type 2 diabetes struggle to keep their weight under control. (Reporting by Ben Hirschler; Editing by David Holmes)