Drug evaluation: ranirestat--an aldose reductase inhibitor for the potential treatment of diabetic complications.

Abstract Ranirestat is an orally available aldose reductase inhibitor under development by Dainippon Sumitomo Pharma Co Ltd (formerly Dainippon Pharmaceutical Co Ltd), Kyorin Pharmaceutical Co Ltd and Eisai Co Ltd for the potential treatment of diabetic complications, such as neuropathy, cataracts, retinopathy and nephropathy. Phase III trials were ongoing in February 2006.