Evaluation of Metanx on diabetic peripheral neuropathy in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats

This study evaluated Metanx, a combination product of L‐methylfolate, Pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate, and Methylcobalamine (PamLab, L.L.C.), on diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), using ZDF and ZDF lean rats. Metanx (4.87 mgkg −1 d −1 or 24.35 mgkg −1 d −1 ) was administered to 15 week old rats, 2 times a day, for 4 weeks. 15 week old ZDF rats developed motor (MNCV) and sensory (SNCV) nerve conduction velocity deficits, thermal and mechanical hypoalgesia, tactile allodynia, and ~26% loss of intraepidermal nerve fibers. Both doses of Metanx alleviated SNCV deficit and thermal and mechanical hypoalgesia whereas the effect on MNCV did not achieve statistical significance. The low dose of Metanx increased intraepidermal nerve fiber density in ZDF rats, whereas the high dose alleviated tactile allodynia. At the end of the study, sciatic nerve nitrotyrosine and nitrite/nitrate concentrations were lower in the Metanx‐treated ZDF rats compared with the untreated group. In conclusion, Metanx, a safe and effective combination product, may find use in the treatment of DPN. Identification of biochemical mechanisms underlying Metanx action is in progress.