Sanofi-Aventis study shows Lantus safety on eyes

BRIDGEWATER, N.J. - Drug developer Sanofi-Aventis said Monday its long-acting insulin Lantus was as safe in a five-year study as older types of insulin, specifically in cases of poor eyesight and blindness.

The five-year study showed that Lantus did not have a higher number of diabetic retinopathy cases, compared with older types of insulin called neural protamine hagedorn. Diabetic retinopathy is a complication from diabetes that can lead to blindness. The study involved 1,024 patients.

Paris-based Sanofi-Aventis said the results are being published online in the journal Diabetolgia. The statement comes on the heels of health concerns over Lantus and its possible link to an increased risk of cancer. Last week, the Food and Drug Administration said it is reviewing data on Lantus.

That move followed the European Association for the Study of Diabetes' concerns over a review of an insurance database. That database of 127,000 patients in four European countries found that out of every 100 patients using Lantus for about 1 1/2 years, one additional person developed cancer.

The association called the results inconclusive and urged further study. The American Diabetes Association has urged patients to speak with their physician before making any decision to stop treatment with Lantus.

Lantus revenue reached $3.5 billion in 2008.

American Depositary Shares of Sanofi-Aventis rose 55 cents to $30.25 in afternoon trading.

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