UP Manila develops ampalaya tablet for Type 2 diabetes

The University of the Philippines (UP) Manila has developed a medicine for Type 2 diabetes, which has shown therapeutic effect on blood sugar levels.

- Neil Jayson Servallos

In a statement yesterday, UP Manila said the Institute of Herbal Medicine (IHM) of the National Institutes of Health said the ampalaya tablet is classified as herbal medicine, setting it apart from other bitter gourd products in the market which are categorized as herbal food supplements.

"Herbal medicines are rigorously tested for safety and efficacy.

These are regulated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).

Unlike herbal supplements, which are often marketed without therapeutic claims, this tablet has undergone extensive clinical trials and is proven to have a therapeutic effect on blood sugar levels. This distinction ensures that the ampalaya tablet offers a superior, scientifically valioffers a superior, scientifically validated option for managing type 2 diabetes," UP Manila said.