CSIR launches scientifically validated anti-diabetes herbal drug

The Council of Scientific and Industrial research (CSIR) has launched a scientifically validated herbal drug, named 'BGR-34', to treat type-two diabetes.

The drug was jointly developed by two CSIR labs in Lucknow and Hyderabad.

The drug has been developed jointly by the National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) and the Central Institute for Medicinal and Aromatic Plant (CIMAP).

The drug has been licensed to Aimil Pharamaceuticals Pvt Ltd, New Delhi, for commercial production.

A combination of natural extracts from plants, "BGR 34'' is based on Ayurveda and has no side effects.

The drug can be effectively used for management of type-II diabetes mellitus without any side effects.

The drug, which is a combination of natural extracts from plants, boosts immune system and works as antioxidant as well as checks free radicals.

During clinical trials, the drug has been found to be safe and effective on animals, showing 67 per cent success.

The drug will help maintain normal blood glucose levels, reduce chances of complications due to persistent high blood glucose levels and impart a good quality life to patients with high blood sugar levels, the report added.

"The drug has extracts from four plants mentioned in Ayurveda and that makes it safe," said Dr AKS Rawat, senior principal scientist, NBRI. It has been tested on animals and scientific study has found it safe and effective, with clinical trials showing 67 per cent success.

The formulation was launched earlier by vice-president Hamid Ansari in February last year at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The product was commercially launched on Sunday.

"We will manufacture it now and it will be available in market shortly, may be in the next 15 days," said V S Kapoor, marketing head of Aimil Pharmaceuticals for UP and Delhi.

The drug may cost Rs500 for 100 tablets and will be available in the form of tablets.