The type 2 diabetes drug which combined the power of two medications, Januvia® and metformin: Janumet® - has been given fast track status in the UAE, as reported by Gulf News.

[The UAE has the second highest rate of diabetes in the world with about one in 20 adults affected, mostly Type II diabetes.]

According to Dr Eisa Al Mansoori, the Head of Drug and Pharmacy Control at the Ministry of Health:

"...both elements within the drug Janumet® have previously received separate approval, so clearance should be provided more quickly.

Earlier this month, Janumet® - a product of Merck & Co. have been approved in the US by the FDA.

Read the full report.