Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of glibenclamide and magnesium sulfate in fructose-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Materials and Methods: An experimental T2DM model was established in female Sprague Dawley rats using a 20% fructose solution for 12 weeks. The effects of glibenclamide and magnesium sulfate were assessed on glycemic control, oxidative stress, lipid profile, and tissue macro- and trace-element levels. Biochemical parameters were determined spectrophotometrically, and data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA in SPSS (version 22). Results: Treatment with glibenclamide and magnesium sulfate significantly (p<0.05) reduced serum insulin, insulin resistance, amylase, triglycerides, total and free cholesterol, LDL-C, VLDL-C, hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), and iron levels. Conversely, both agents markedly increased body weight, serum HDL-C, hepatic catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, and hepatic zinc and magnesium concentrations compared with the diabetic control group. Discussion: The findings indicate that glibenclamide and magnesium sulfate effectively attenuated hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, and trace element disturbances induced by fructose feeding. Glibenclamide enhanced β-cell activity and insulin secretion, while magnesium sulfate improved insulin sensitivity, antioxidant defenses, and glucose homeostasis through modulation of the Nrf2 and PI3K/Akt pathways. Conclusion: Both glibenclamide and magnesium sulfate demonstrated significant protective and therapeutic effects against fructose-induced T2DM. Their combined ability to restore metabolic balance, enhance antioxidant capacity, and correct trace element deficiencies suggests potential clinical relevance of magnesium supplementation as an adjunct therapy in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Zaidi et al. (Mon,) studied this question.