A new phase II trial of a renin inhibitor designed to treat hypertensive diabetics has been launched, it has been announced.

According to the American Diabetes Association, between 20 per cent and 60 per cent of diabetics have hypertension, with the condition increasing the risk that a patient will develop complications such as a stroke.

Biopharmaceutical manufacturer Speedel Holding said tests on its SPP635 medicine, designed specifically for patients who have diabetes and mild-to-moderate hypertension, had begun in Europe, with data being compiled on the drug's safety, tolerability and efficacy.

Patients involved in the trial will also have proteinuria, or protein in the urine, which can be caused by inflammation of the glomeruli prompted by diabetes.

The 50 participants will be given one of two different doses of the drug for four weeks, with the results of the trial expected to be published before the end of 2008.

Physicians who need to obtain drugs still undergoing clinical trials can contact Masters, which has more than 20 years of experience in meeting the needs of patients who require a drug that is being investigated.