Ciclazindol: an oral agent with weight reducing properties and hypoglycaemic activity

In a single blind crossover study, ciclazindol, 10-(m-chlorophenyl)-2, 3, 4, 10-tetrahydropyrimide (1, 2 alpha) indol-10-ol hydrochloride (Fig. 1), has been found to have hypoglycaemic action, and to produce reduction in appetite and weight. The mode of action appears to be different from either biguanides or sulphonylureas. Side-effects were few and mild. Metformin 500 mg b.d. had comparable hypoglycaemic effect but did not suppress appetite. Ciclazindol may be useful as a mild oral hypoglycaemic agent for obese patients, and would be suitable for once daily administration.