Synthalin

Synthalin

Synthalin is a sulfonylurea derivative that was developed in the 1920s as an antidiabetic agent. It was one of the first oral medications used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Synthalin was developed by the German scientist August Krogh and his team, who were searching for a more convenient alternative to injectable insulin.

History

Synthalin was first synthesized in 1926 by the German pharmaceutical company Hoechst AG. The drug was introduced to the market in 1927, shortly after the discovery of insulin. It was initially hailed as a major breakthrough in the treatment of diabetes, as it was the first oral antidiabetic agent available. However, its use declined in the 1930s due to the development of more effective and safer drugs, such as sulfonylureas.

Mechanism of Action

The exact mechanism of action of Synthalin is not fully understood. It is believed to work by stimulating the release of insulin from the pancreas, similar to other sulfonylureas. However, Synthalin is less potent and has a slower onset of action compared to modern sulfonylureas.

Side Effects and Risks

Like all medications, Synthalin has potential side effects. The most common side effects include hypoglycemia, nausea, and diarrhea. Long-term use of Synthalin can also lead to liver damage, which is why it is no longer used in clinical practice.

Legacy

Despite its shortcomings, Synthalin played a significant role in the history of diabetes treatment. It paved the way for the development of other oral antidiabetic agents and demonstrated the potential of drug therapy in managing diabetes.

See Also

• Diabetes mellitus
• Sulfonylurea
• Insulin
• August Krogh
• Hoechst AG