BACKGROUND

Type II diabetes and its underlying obesity, also called diabesity, is rapidly becoming a worldwide epidemic. There are currently more than 194 million people with diabetes worldwide, and Type II diabetes accounts for up to 90% of diabetics in overall patient populations. It is a well known in the art that diabetes is a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases associated also with dyslipidemia and hypertension. With such long-term complications, diabetes is already the fifth leading cause of morbidity and mortality, imposing a high financial burden on health care costs for society. With a projected doubling of the number of global cases of diabetes by 2030, the development of effective diabetes prevention and treatment strategies is of paramount importance.

Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a metabolic disorder in which carbohydrate and lipid metabolism are improperly regulated by insulin (insulin resistance) resulting in elevated fasting and postprandial serum glucose levels (hyperglycemia) and increased levels of circulating free fatty acids (FFA) and triglycerides (TG). T2DM is preceded by a long period of insulin resistance during which blood glucose is maintained near normal levels by compensatory hyperinsulinemia. When pancreatic β— cells are no longer able to compensate for insulin resistance by adequately increasing insulin production, impaired glucose tolerance appears. This condition is characterised by an excessive blood glucose concentration in the postprandial phase whereas fasting glucose remains in the normal range. The combination of persistent overfeeding with a sedentary lifestyle leads to overt diabetes characterised by hyperglycemia.

Recently, it has been suggested that oxidative stress and inflammation are key features of obesity and type II diabetes, exacerbating its progression and cardiovascular complications. For example, the antioxidant enzymes responsible for scavenging free radicals have been reported to be diminished in diabetic patients. Glutathione pools become depleted in diabetic patients following frequent and severe hyperglycemic episodes. In particular, pancreatic β-cells that are sensitive to oxidative free radicals become damaged. It is well recognized that pancreatic β-cell dysfunction resulting from prolonged exposure to high glucose ancior elevated free fatty acid (FFA) levels contributes to glucose Intolerance and subsequent occurrence of type II diabetes In patients.

Lifestyle modifications, in terms of reduced caloric intake and increased physical activity, can reduce the incidence of type II diabetes up to 58% in the insulin resistant patient population. However, failure of long-term adherence to these modifications limits the potential of this approach. Pharmacological therapies to prevent type II diabetes are an important therapeutic strategy for patients unable to maintain these necessary lifestyle modifications. However, no single anti-diabetic agent can currently be recommended for preventing diabetes. An important distinction to be made here is whether known anti- diabetic agents prevent or delay the onset of diabetes, since the average time period between the onset of β-cell dysfunction and development of diabetes is ten years. This point is illustrated by the fact that several drugs from different classes are on the market today and yet the diabetes population is still growing.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents may possess potential anti-diabetic properties. Salicylates and aspirin lower glucose levels in patients with diabetes, inducing sometimes hypoglycemic episodes in patients already under anti-diabetic treatments. However, such effects are only reported to be observed when the salicylate dosage is high and associated with undesirable side-effects. Recently, researchers at the Joslin Diabetes Center (Boston USA) reported that treatment of type II diabetes patients with 4 grams/day of salsalate, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drag (NSAID) similar to aspirin, lowered fasting glucose and reduced inflammation. Such high doses of NSAID required for chronic treatment of diabetes are known to cause stomach ulceration, bleeding and to have other deleterious effects. These drawbacks effectively preclude the use of antiinflammatories such as NSAIDs for use as antidiabetic agents. With regard to antioxidants, research has shown that antioxidant drags can be used to protect against oxidative stress in experimental models of Type I and Type fl diabetes, For instance, nicotinamide, desferoxamine and N-acetyicysteine have been reported to partially protect islets from immune destruction during low-dose streptozotocin-intluced insulitis. a process in which hydroxy! radicals play an important role. However, there has been no demonstration that antioxidant therapy Is sufficient as a treatment for T2DM, nor is there any evidence that antioxidants have any specific effects in protecting Islet cells other than in experimentally-Induced diabetes models that are known to use oxidative stress to produce hyperglycemia.

The need for new drags able to prevent β-cell failure and disease progression remains especially high in pre-diabetic and type II diabetic patients to slow down or stop the ongoing epidemic. Thus, there remains a need in the art for pharmaceutical compositions that are useful for treating metabolic disorders, particularly including type II diabetes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to pharmaceutical combinations comprising certain combinations of an anti-inflammatory agent and an antioxidant agent. Pharmaceutical combinations of this invention are useful for treating diabetes, particularly Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. Such pharmaceutical combinations are also useful for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation, tissue and/or plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a diabetic mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. Also, pharmaceutical combinations of this invention are useful for protecting pancreatic β-cells, preventing their impairment or failure and subsequent lower insulin secretion In a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient.

As provided herein, this invention is exemplified by the use of pharmaceutical combinations comprising an antioxidant selected from resveratrol. silibinin, alpha-llpυic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostilbene, N-acctyl cysteine. taurine, probucol. curcumin, alpha-tocopherol and idebenone in combination with an anti-inflammatory selected from sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4- trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalafe ₇ naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac. Ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. Particularly- advantageous embodiments of the combinations of this invention are combinations of the antioxidants N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid (particularly (R)- alpha-lipoic acid) or taurine with the antiinflammatories sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4- trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, dexibuprofen or dexketoprofen, In particular, this invention is exemplified by the use of the pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine (NAC), alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and an anti-inflammatory for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. Particular examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal.

Pharmaceutical combinations of this invention, comprising an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory agent, ad\ antageously show additive or synergistic effects relative to treatment with an antioxidant agent alone or an anti-inflammatory agent alone. Such additive or synergistic effects permit lower dosages oi antioxidant and ami-inflammatory agents to be administered while improving the anti-diabetic effect and reducing side effects associated with monotherapy. As provided herein, this invention is exemplified by the use of pharmaceutical combinations comprising an antioxidant selected from resveratrol, silibinin, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostilbene, N-acetyl cysteine, taurine, probucol, curcumin, alpha-tocopherol and idebenone in combination with an anti-inflammatory selected from sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. Particularly-advantageous embodiments of the combinations of this invention are combinations of the antioxidants N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid (particularly (R)- alpha-lipoic acid) or taurine with anti-inflammatories sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, dexibuprofen or dexketoprofen, In particular, treatment with the pharmaceutical combination of N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and anti-inflammatory compounds including sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen, improves anti-diabetic effects while lowering the risk of gastric bleeding, tinnitus or other deleterious side effects associated with anti-inflammatory administration. Particular examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal.

This invention thus provides methods for treating diabetes, particularly Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising an antiinflammatory agent, an antioxidant agent. In accordance with this invention, methods are also provided for reducing AGEs, ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and/or plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that comprise administering to the for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient, a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising an antiinflammatory agent, an antioxidant agent. As provided herein, the methods of this invention for treating diabetes comprise the step of administering a therapeuπ ^' cally- effective amount of a combination of an antioxidant selected from resveratrol, silibinin, alpha-Jipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostilbene, N-acetyl cysteine, taurine, probucol, curcumin, aipha-tocopherol and idebenone in combination with an anti-inflammatoiy selected from sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal. 2-hydroxy-4- tri fluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, clcxibiiprofen and dexketoprofen for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particular!)/ a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. Particularly- ad\ antageous embodiments of the combinations of this invention are combinations of the antioxidants N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid (particularly (R)- alpha-lipoic acid) or taurine with anti-ϊnflammatories sullndac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4- trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, dexibuprofen or dexketoprofen. Particular examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoϊc acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofcn; NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal.

The invention also provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising an anti-inflammatory agent, an antioxidant agent, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The pharmaceutically acceptable compositions of this invention are useful for treating diabetes, particularly Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, in a for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. The pharmaceutically acceptable compositions are also useful for reducing AGEs, ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFct and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. As provided herein, the pharmaceutical compositions for treating diabetes comprise a combination of an antioxidant selected from resveratrol, silibinin, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostilbene, N-acetyl cysteine, taurine, idebenone, probucol and curcumin in combination with an anti-inflammatory selected from sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen in amounts that are therapeutically-effective for treating the disorders disclosed hei'ein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. Particularly- advantageous embodiments of the combinations of this invention are combinations of the antioxidants N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid (particularly (R)-alpha-lipoic acid) or taurine with antiinflammatories sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4- trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, dexibuprofen or dexketoprofen. Particular examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal,

In another aspect this invention provides uses for pharmaceutical combinations comprising an antioxidant agent, an anti-inflammatory agent, for preparing, or for the manufacture of, a medicament for treating diabetes, particularly Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. This invention also provides uses for pharmaceutical combinations comprising an antioxidant agent, an anti -inflammatory agent, and optionally at least one other anti-diabetic agent, for preparing, or for the manufacture of, a medicament for reducing AGEs, ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and/or plasma TNFα and 1L6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. As provided herein, medicaments for treating diabetes comprise a combination of an antioxidant selected from resveratrol, silibinin, alplia-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostilbene, N- acetyl cysteine, taurine, probucol, curcumin, alpha-tocopherol and idebenone in combination with an anti-inflammatory selected from sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalatc, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen in amounts that are therapeutically-effective for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. Particularly- advantageous embodiments of the combinations of this invention are combinations of the antioxidants N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid (particularly (R)- alpha-lipoic acid) or taurine with anti-inflammatories sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4- trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, dexibuprofen or dexketoprofen. Particular examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate, Alternative embodiments include bαi are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate: NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; KAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and Nx4C, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal.

In another aspect, this invention provides uses for pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising an anti-inflammatory agent, an antioxidant agent and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for preparing, or for the manufacture of, a medicament for treating diabetes, particularly Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. This invention also provides uses for pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising an anti-inflammatory agent, an antioxidant agent, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier for the preparation, or manufacture of, a medicament for reducing AGEs, ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and/or plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. As provided herein, the pharmaceutical compositions for treating diabetes comprise a combination of an antioxidant selected from resveratrol, silibinin, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof ^* pterostilbene, N-acetyl cysteine, taurine, probucol, curcumin, alpha-tocopherol and idebenone in combination with an anti-inflammatory selected from sulindac. s.alk,ylie acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4-tritluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB). salsalate. naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuproien and dexketoprofen in amounts that are therapeutically-effective for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. Partieularly- advantageous embodiments of the combinations of this invention are combinations of the antioxidants N-acetylcysteine, alpha-iipoic acid (particularly (R)- alpha-lipoic acid) or

IC) taurine with antiinflammatories sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4- trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, dexibuprofen or dexketoprofen. Particular examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal.

Also provided by the invention are combinations, pharmaceutical compositions, medicaments, and methods of use thereof, comprising advantageous and effecting compositions comprising at least one antioxidant selected from resveratrol, silibinin, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostilbene, N-acetyl cysteine, taurine, probucol, curcumin, alpha-tocopherol and idebenone in combination with one anti-inflammatory selected from sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2 -hydro xy- 4-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen in amounts that are therapeutically-eflective for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. Combinations comprising advantageous pluralities of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents fall within the scope of this invention, particularly wherein such combinations show advantages in efficacy, half-life, absorption, solubility, formulation compatability, stability, or synergistic or complemetary effects. The Invention also provides embodiments of the combinations as set forth herein optionally comprising an additional antidiabetes drug.

Specific embodiments of this invention will become evident from the following more detailed description of certain preferred embodiments and the claims.

BMEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a graphical illustration of the combination of (R) lipoic acid and one of diclofenac, dexibuprofen, or dexketoprofen at protecting pancreatic beta cells. The effect on the combination is shown.

Figure 2 is a graphical illustration of the combination of salicylate and (R) lipoic acid at protecting pancreatic beta cells.

Figure 3 is a graphical illustration of salicylate alone (0.38, 0.75, and 1.5 mmol/kg) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) alone (0.38 and 0.75 mmol/kg) at preventing increase of glycemia (hyperglycemia) and reduction of plasma insulin induced by Alloxan-mediated β-ceU destruction.

Figure 4 is a graphical illustration of the combination of salicylate (0.38 mmoFkg) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) (0.19 mmol/kg) at preventing increase of glycemia (hyperglycemia) induced by Alloxan-mediated /3-cell destruction.

Figure 5 is a graphical illustration of the combination of salicylate (0.75 mmol'kg) and

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) (0.19 mmol/kg) at preventing increase of glycemia (hyperglycemia) induced by Alloxan-mediated /3-cell destruction.

Figure 6 is a graphical illustration of the combination of salicylate (0.75 mmol/kg) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) (0.38 mmol/kg) at preventing increase of glycemia (hyperglycemia) induced by Alloxan -mediated j3-eelf destruction. Figure 7 is a graphical Illustration of the combination of salicylate (75 mg/kg/day s.c. infusion) and N-acetylcysteine (0.1% drinking water) at improving fasting glycemia of ob/ob mice after 4 weeks of treatment.

Figure 8 is a graphical illustration of salicylate alone (0.75mmoi kg/day Lp.),

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) alone (0.75tnmols/kg/day Lp.), and the combination of salicylate (0.75mmols/kg/day) and NAC (0.75mmols/kg/day) at reducing Free Fatty Acids and Triglycerides in ob/ob mice after 4 weeks of treatment.

Figure 9 is a graphical illustration of the combination of salicylate (75 mg/kg/day s.c. infusion) and (R) lipoic acid (10 mgs/kg/day i.p.) at improving fasting glycemia and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbAIc) of ob/ob mice after 4 weeks of treatment.

Figure 10 is a graphical illustration of the combination of salicylate (75 mg/kg/day) and taurine (2.5% drinking water) at improving fasting glycemia of ob/ob mice after 4 weeks of treatment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION This invention provides pharmaceutical combinations comprising an antioxidant agent and an anti-inflammatory agent useful for treating diabetes, particularly Type 1 and Type II diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. The pharmaceutical combinations comprising an antioxidant agent and an anti-inflammatory agent are also useful for reducing AGEs, ROS. lipid peioxidation, tissue and plasma TNf α and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. Also, the pharmaceutical combinations comprising an antioxidant agent and an anti-inflammatory agent are useful for protecting

B pancreatic β-cells. preventing their impairment or failure and subsequent lower insulin secretion in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. Specific, non-limiting examples of pharmaceutical combinations according to the invention are set forth below. As provided herein, the pharmaceutical compositions for treating diabetes comprise a combination of an antioxidant selected from resveralrol, silibinin, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostilbene, N-acetyl cysteine, taurine, probucol, curcumin, alpha-tocopherol and idebenone in combination with an anti-inflammatory selected from sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4- trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen in amounts that are therapeutically-effective for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. Particularly-advantageous embodiments of the combinations of this invention are combinations of the antioxidants N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid (particularly (R)- alpha-lipoic acid) or taurine with antiinflammatories sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, dexibuprofen or dexketoprofen. The invention particularly provides pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflanimatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

This invention in certain embodiments provides pharmaceutical combinations comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof useful tor treating diabetes, particularly Type 1 and Type Il diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia. LADA metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and 'or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. The pharmaceutical combinations comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof are also useful for reducing AGEs, ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. Also, pharmaceutical combinations comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof are useful for protecting pancreatic β-cells, preventing their impairment or failure and subsequent lower insulin secretion in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient.

The invention specifically provides such combinations of N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, with an antiinflammatory compound including sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4- trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen. Particularly-advantageous embodiments of the combinations of this invention are combinations of the antioxidants N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid (particularly (R)- alpha-lipoic acid) or taurine with antϊ-inflammatories sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, dexibuprofen or dexketoprofen. Particular examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate: NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable

o salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-llpoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. Each of these combinations can optionally comprise one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, diluents or excipients. The invention particularly provides pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers. As set forth herein, certain combinations of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents are useful got treating diabetes in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. Specific embodiments of such pharmaceutical combinations provided by the invention include pharmaceutical combinations comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomoi or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteinc, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipυic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal. Each of these combinations can optionally comprise one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, diluents or excipients. The invention particularly provides pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti -inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

Said combinations are useful for treating diabetes, particularly Type 1 and Type 11 diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. The pharmaceutical combinations of the invention are also useful for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS. lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delating or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis. Also, the pharmaceutical combinations of this invention arc useful for protecting pancreatic β-cells. preventing their impairment or failure and subsequent lower insulin secretion. It will be understood by the skilled worker that these certain embodiments of the invention are useful for treating a diabetic mammal, preferably a human, whereas other

I 7 combinations of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds may not be. The particular combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, and the efficacy, half- life, absorption, solubility, formulation compatibility, stability, or synergistic or complementary effects of the combination are determined empirically with each combination of particular agents.

Other aspects of this invention provide methods for treating diabetes, particularly Type I and Type Il diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising an antioxidant agent and an anti-inflammatory agent. In certain embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating metabolic disorders that include pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, LADA, type I diabetes, and type II diabetes, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising an antioxidant agent and an anti-inflammatory agent.

In other embodiments, this invention provides methods for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising an antioxidant agent and an anti-inflammatory agent. The invention thus provides methods for treating diabetes, particularly Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and particularly a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising a combination of an antioxidant selected from resveratrol, silibinin, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostilbene, N-acetyl cysteine, taurine, probucol, curcumin, alpha-tocopherol and idebenone in combination with an antiinflammatory selected from sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4- trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen in amounts that are therapeutically-effective for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient.

In certain embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating metabolic disorders that include pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, LADA, type I diabetes, and type 11 diabetes, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and particularly a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising a combination of an antioxidant selected from resveratrol, silibinin, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostilbene, N- acetyl cysteine, taurine, probucol, cuicumin. alpha-iocopheroi and idebenone in combination with an anti-inflammatory selected from sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal. 2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen in amounts that are therapeutically-effective for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. The invention particularly provides pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In other embodiments, this invention provides methods for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment by administering a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising a combination of an antioxidant selected from resveratrol, silibinin, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostilbene, N-acetyl cysteine, taurine, probucol, curcumin, alpha-tocopherol and idebenone in combination with an anti-inflammatory selected from sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethylbenzoie acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen in amounts that are therapeutically-effective for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. The invention particularly provides pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non -toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers. Specific embodiments of such therapeutic methods provided by the invention include methods for treating diabetes, paπieuiarly Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, insulin resistance and retinopathy, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcystcinc. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Each of these combinations can optionally comprise one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, diluents or excipients Additional specific embodiments of such therapeutic methods provided by the invention include methods tor treating metabolic disorders that include pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, LADA, type I diabetes, and type II diabetes, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic

-n acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Each of these combinations can optionally comprise one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, diluents or excipients Additional specific embodiments of such therapeutic methods provided by the invention include methods for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistic ally effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and a non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and siilindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically

JI acceptable salt thereof; N-acβtylcystβine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Each of these combinations can optionally comprise one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, diluents or excipients

Individual disorders can also be treated using methods provided by the invention, such as diabetes, particularly Type I and Type Il diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, and/or insulin resistance. As will be understood by the skilled worker, particular combinations of an antioxidant compound and an anti-inflammatory compound are administered to a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need thereof, for the treatment of such individual diseases or disorders. As provided herein, the methods of the invention comprise the step of administering to a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient, a pharmaceutical compositions for treating diabetes comprising a combination of an antioxidant selected from resveratrol, silibinin. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostilbene, N-acetyl cysteine, taurine, probucol, curcumin, alpha-tocopherol and idebencne in combination with an anti-inflanimatury selected fioto suiindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal 2-hydio\y-4-trifluorornethylbcnzoic acid (HTB), balsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprøfen and dexketoprofen in amounts that are therapeutically-effective for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient. Particular examples of such combinations are NAC and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt

iu thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC and paracetamol, NAC and ibuprofen, NAC and salsalate. and NAC and diflunisal. Additional particular embodiments include pharmaceutical compositions compriosing (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

Thus, in certain embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating pancreatic β-cell dysfunction in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a synergistic aHy-cffecth e amGunt of a phaimaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to NSAIDs or a pharmaceutically acceptable sah thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate, Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered, The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrabl> (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting ofdiflunisal. diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating dyslipidemia in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen: NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutical^ acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a phaitnaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers: (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a

')7 pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating hyperglycemia in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen: NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB. NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac: NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sullndac; and NAC, alplia-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating insulin resistance in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAlD or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations arc NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate.

IQ Alternative embodiments Include but are not limited to combinations ot ^' NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoie acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers arc administered, The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen,

10 naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating metabolic syndrome in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, arid optionally one or mere pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-Iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating Type I diabetes in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of MAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC. alpha-lipcic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC. alpha-lipυic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipυic

1? acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The in\ention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating Type II diabetes in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising K- acetyl cysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an MSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC- alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers: (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrabl> (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more an ti -inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen. naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating Latent Autoimmune Diabetes of Adulthood (LADA) in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti -inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or tauiine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or tauiine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutical^ acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipolc acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti -inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating atherosclerosis in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAlD or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen: NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NiAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC alpha-ϋpoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non -toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating cardiovascular diseases in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or mure pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anii-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen. naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating inflammatory disorders in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoie acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-iϊpoie acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations ofNAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha lipoic acid cr a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen: NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen: NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac: NAC, alpha-llpoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindae; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating nephropathy in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations arc NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. EP2010/053419

Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol: NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-Upoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibupi ^* ofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers: or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate «r a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly presides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid. prcferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting ot ^' ditlumsal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen. dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating neuropathy in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB. NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof ^* diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and optionally rnie or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating retinopathy in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAlD or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutical!} acceptable salt thereυfor taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, N AC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceuticall} acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sullndac; and NAC, alpha-lipolc acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating metabolic disorders in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount cf a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alρha-liρoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAlD oi a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations arc NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating insulin resistance in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a phamiaeeu tic ally acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers: (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistic ally effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising thereof, wherein specific examples of such combinations are NAC. alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate. Alternative embodiments include but are not limited to combinations of NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and paracetamol; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and ibuprofen; NAC, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and salsalate; NAC, alpha-ϋpoic scid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexibuprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and dexketoprofen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof ur taurine and HTB, NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and naproxen; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diclofenac; NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and sulindac; and NAC, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine and diflunisal. In additional particular enibodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating pancreatic β-cell dysfunction in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combinations comprising N-acctylcysteinc, alphd-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ϊbuprøien; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutical!}

IO acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dcxibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating dyslipidemia in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable ^aIt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofcn or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, atplia-iipoϊc acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners: or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners,

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating hyperglycemia in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-aeetyleysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof, In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers: (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of difJunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating insulin resistance in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable ^« =alf thereof and saJsaiatε cr a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; M- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof and siilindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thcicυf; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-hpoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-

s 1 lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and difhmisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoie acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers: (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal. diclofenac. dexibuproten. dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together \\ ith one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers,

S5 In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating metabolic syndrome in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or tauiaie, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating Type I diabetes in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexJketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or inort phaπnaccuticdlly acceptable carriers: (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; or (JR.) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered- The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating Type II diabetes in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistic ally effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acstylcystsmc, alpha-hpoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof oi taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt

3V T/EP2010/053419

thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceu tic ally acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers: or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating Latent Autoimmune Diabetes of Adulthood (LADA) in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and Ibuprofen; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-hpoic acid or a pharmaceutical!) _' acceptable sail thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprυfen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxie pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating atherosclerosis in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and suiiiidac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically

Ol acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments. pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that uijiiipiisc lipυic eh, id, picfeiTαbly (R) lipυiu duid, in combination with one of more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofcn. dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners, In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating cardiovascular diseases in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient In need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-Iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindae or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, αlphα-lipυiu mid or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating inflammatory disorders in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofetr. N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoϊc acid or a pnarmsccutically acceptable salt theieoi ui taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysieine, alpha-Iipoie acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and difiunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, difiunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, iLdpjoλcπ υr Λ pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers: or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or d pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflutiisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-llpoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating nephropathy in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofert; ^-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically

CiR 010/053419

acceptable salt thereof and paracetoniol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) aipha-lipoϊc acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dcxibuprofcn or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more T/EP2010/053419

phannaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more phannaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen. naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating neuropathy in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a phannaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a phannaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteme, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a phannaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a phannaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a phannaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a phannaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a phannaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable Salt tuereoi arid dcxttetoproten or a p armaceutically acceptable salt tucrcol; Λ~ acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a phannaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together witϊϊ one or iiiore non-toxic pnarmaccutiCaiiy ncccptEuiC carriers _*

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating retinopathy in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt

7! thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine. or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diffunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pnarmaceuticai compositions comprising (i _\ ) aipna-iipoic sciύ or a puarmaccuticauy acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically

„ acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating metabolic disorders in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-

71 lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners. In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a piiarniaccuticany acccptaoic sait tiicrcoi or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acccptaoic sait thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflimisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen. naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for reducing free fatty acids in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or Ά acceptable salt thereof end sahcvlic acid or a πharmaceuticallv acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; ^-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionallv one or more pharmaceutic ally acceptable carriers: (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof ^* and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers, or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically

11 acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for reducing triglycerides in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistic ally effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylc ^v stεine, ^aIt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In additional particular embodiments, pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable earners are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen. naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non -toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In particular embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating hyperglycemia in a patient that includes the step of administering to die patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutic ally acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, In additional particular embodiments. pharmaceutical compositions comprising (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexibuprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers;

fin (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers; or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, salicylate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and optionally one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are administered. The invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners.

This invention also provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising an antioxidant agent, an anti-inflammatory agent, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner useful for treating diabetes, particularly Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, and/or insulin resistance in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. The pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising an antioxidant agent, an anti-inflammatory agent, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier are also useful for reducing AGEs, ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis, Also, the pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising an antioxidant, an anti-inflammatory agent, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner are useful for protecting pancreatic β-cells. preventing their impairment or failure and subsequent lower insulin secretion, As provided herein, the pharmaceutically-acceptable compositions comprise a combination of an antioxidant selected from resveratrol. silibinin, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostilbene. N-acetyi cysteine, taurine, probucol, eurcumin. alpha-tocopherol and idebenone in combination with an anti- inflammatory selected from sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4- trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen in amounts that are therapeutically-effective for treating the disorders disclosed herein in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient.

In certain embodiments, this invention provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, an antiinflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier useful for treating diabetes, particularly Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, and/or insulin resistance. The pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier are also useful for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis. Also, the pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner are useful for protecting pancreatic p-cells, preventing their impairment or failure and subsequent lower insulin secretion. The invention particularly provides such pharmaceutically acceptable compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) iipoic acid, in combination with one or more antiinflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated

Wl together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers. In certain particular embodiments, this invention provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine. alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acelylcysteine, aipha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner useful for treating diabetes, particularly Type I and Type II diabetes, as well as diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease. inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, and/or insulin resistance. The pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable s»ak thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wheiein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier are useful for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS. lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TN Fa and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis. Also, the pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination farther comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier are useful for protecting pancreatic β-cells, preventing their impairment or failure and subsequent lower insulin secretion. In another aspect, this invention provides methods for treating a plurality of diseases and disorders related to dysregulation of glucose homeostatis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient, and specifically diabetes, particularly Type I and Type Il diabetes, and diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, and/or insulin resistance. In this aspect, the methods of this invention include the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising an antioxidant agent, an anti-inflammatory agent, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

The invention thus provides methods for treating atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy and retinopathy in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient, that include the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising an antioxidant agent, an anti-inflammatory agent, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for treating metabolic disorders that include pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, LADA, type 1 diabetes, and type II diabetes, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising an antioxidant agent, an anti-inflammatory agent, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The invention farther provides methods for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising an antioxidant agent, an antiinflammatory agent, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In certain embodiments of this aspect of the invention are provided methods for treating atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In certain embodiments of this aspect of the invention are provided methods for treating metabolic disorders that include pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, LADA, type I diabetes, and type II diabetes, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammai, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutic ally acceptable composition comprising an N- acetylcysteine, alpha-iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine. or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In certain embodiments of this aspect of the invention are provided methods for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, an antiinflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable &ail thereof and lbuproien; N-acctyicystcmc, aipna-πpoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further composes at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating metabolic disorders that include pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, LADA, type I diabetes, and type II diabetes, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient that includes the step of administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising an N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic aciti or a pnarπiaccuticciiiy acccptsoic sail uiereoi or taurine, or a pnannaceuticcuiy acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and

particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutic ally acceptable composition comprising N-acelylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and difhmisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for freatiiit? nancreafic β-ce!I dvs function in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition υf a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for treating dyslipidemia in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for treating hyperglycemia in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for treating insulin resistance in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable

This invention also provides methods for treating metabolic syndrome in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising K- acetykysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutical^ acceptable bait thereof or taurine,

Q-> an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for treating Type I diabetes in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistic ally effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceu tic ally acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for treating Type II diabetes in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but noi limited to an NSAID oi a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable c airier. This invention also provides methods for treating Latent Autoimmune Diabetes of

Adulthood (LADA) in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an ^" WSAfIQ or a pharmaceutically acceptable ¹ ^aIt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner.

This invention also provides methods for treating atherosclerosis in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-llpoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceu tic ally acceptable carrier. This invention also provides methods for treating cardiovascular diseases in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAlD or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for treating inflammatory disorders in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically' acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at ϊeast one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetyieysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an antiinflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof ^* and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for treating nephropathy in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for treating neuropathy in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for treating retinopathy in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

This invention also provides methods for treating metabolic disorders in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, This invention also provides methods for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TMFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating pancreatic β-cell dysfunction in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalatc or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexkctoprofeu or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating dyslipidemia in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulitidac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating hyperglycemia in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dεxketoprofcn or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating insulin resistance in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a phaπnaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a phaπnaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a phaπnaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a phaπnaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexkctoprofen or a phaimaceucieally acceptable salt thereot; N- aeety] cysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a phaπnaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a phaπnaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating metabolic syndrome in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and saisalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable «alt thereof and dexketcprcfeπ or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alplia-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating Type I diabetes in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, aJpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexkctoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating Type II diabetes in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceu tic ally acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acelylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketcprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable sak thereof: N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutic ally acceptable sail thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lϊpoie acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating Latent Autoimmune Diabetes of Adulthood (LADA) in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner. hi particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating atherosclerosis in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine. or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutic aϊiy acceptable salt thereor or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically accepiable salt thereof; \ -acetylcysteine, alpha-iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipolc acid or a phamiaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a phamiaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner. In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating cardiovascular diseases in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a phamiaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. αlphd-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a phamiaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoie acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating inflammatory disorders in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable idle thereot and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereot or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetyIc>steine, alpha-lipoic

i OO acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine. or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid Oi d pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and siilindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof oι ^* taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating nephropathy in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetyleysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcystcinc, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutic ally acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating neuropathy in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable noli thereof, N -acetylcysteine, aipha-Iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteme. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine.

I O ^Q or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating retinopathy in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen: N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt ihereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and siiliiidac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine.

I U or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating metabolic disorders in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine. or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable »αll thereof, N-acetyicysteine. alpha-iipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteme, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for reducing advanced glycated end products (AGEs), ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt theieof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen: N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetamol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereot: JN -acetylcysteine, alpha-ϋpoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulmdac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a

i i: pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for reducing free fatty acids in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoie acid

i U or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketøprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for reducing triglycerides in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt theteυf and paracetυrπol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulϊndae or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoie acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable earner.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides methods for treating hyperglycemia in a patient that includes the step of administering to the patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprofen; N-acetylcysteine, alpha- lipoic acid or a pharmaceutic ally acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail ihcrcuf and paiaceiomoi or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and siilitidac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcystcine, alpha-lipoic acid

1 1 3 or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutic ally acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

In each of the foregoing methods, the invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In another aspect, this invention provides a use for a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti -inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAlD for preparing, or for the manufacture of. a medicament for treating diabetes, particularly Type I arid Type II diabetes, and diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia. LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, ancFer chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, in a mammal, particular!} a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. This invention also provides a use for pharmaceutical combinations comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and an anti-inflammatory compound including but not limited to an NSAID, for preparing, or for the manufacture of, a medicament for reducing AGEs, ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and/or plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient.

In particular embodiments, this invention provides a use for a pharmaceutical combination comprising N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and sodium salicylate, for preparing, or for the manufacture of, a medicament for treating diabetes, particularly Type I and Type II diabetes, and diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dyslimction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. This invention also provides a use for a pharmaceutical combinations comprising N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, and sodium salicylate, for preparing, or for the manufacture of, a medicament ibr reducing AGEs, ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and/or plasma TNFα and IL6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient.

In further particular embodiments, this invention provides a use for a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate: N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable sail thereof and ibuprolcn: N- acetylcysteme, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N -acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically

i I / acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, for preparing, or for the manufacture of. a medicament for treating diabetes, particularly Type 1 and Type II diabetes, and diseases and disorders associated with diabetes, including but not limited to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory disorders, nephropathy, neuropathy, retinopathy, β-cell dysfunction, dyslipidemia, LADA, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and/or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient. This in\ ention also provides a use tor a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising N-acetylcysteine. alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salicylic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof such as sodium salicylate; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and ibuprυfen; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and paracetomol or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and salsalate or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and sulindac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexketoprofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and dexibupofen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and HTB or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N- acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and naproxen or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diclofenac or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof; N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or taurine, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof and diflunisal or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein each such combination further comprises at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, for preparing, or for the manufacture of, a medicament for reducing AGEs, ROS, lipid peroxidation, tissue and/or plasma TNFα and 1L6 levels, and for delaying or preventing cardiovascular complications associated with atherosclerosis in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient.

In each of the foregoing methods, the invention particularly provides such methods using pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) Iipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers.

In another aspect, this invention provides methods for treating any of the aforementioned diseases and disorders: adipocyte dysfunction related diseases, carbohydrate metabolism related diseases, vascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cancers, arthritis, osteoarthritis, spondylitis, bone resorption diseases, sepsis, septic shock, chronic pulmonary inflammatory disease, fever, periodontal diseases, ulcerative colitis, pyresis, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's diseases, cystic fibrosis, dysfunctions of the immune system, stroke, multiple sclerosis, migraine, pain, inflammatory eye conditions including uveitis, glaucoma and conjunctivitis, degenerative bone or joint conditions including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatoid spondylitis, gouty arthritis ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis and other arthritic conditions, as well as inflamed joints, chronic inflammatory skin conditions, including allergic lesions, lichen planus, pityriasis rosea, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, diseases and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, including inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, atrophic gastritis, gastritis varialoforme, ulcerative colitis, coeliac disease, regional ileitis, peptic ulceration, particularly irritable bowel syndrome, reflux oesophagitis, and damage to the gastrointestinal tract resulting from infections, for example, by Helicobacter pylori, inflammatory lung disorders such as asthma, bronchitis, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, fanner's lung, acute respiratory distress syndrome; bacteraemia, endotoxaemia (septic shock), aphthous ulcers, gingivitis, pyresis, particularly pain, including inflammatory pain, neuropathic pain, acute pain or pain of a central origin; meningitis and pancreatitis, and other conditions associated with inflammation, central nervous system inflammatory conditions and diseases, including ischaemia-reperfusion injury associated with ischemic stroke; vascular diseases, such as atheromatous and nonatheromatous, ischemic heart disease, and Raynaud's Disease and Phenomenon in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient comprising administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutical

(20 combination comprising an antioxidant agent, an anti-inflammatory agent, and optionally at least one other anti-diabetic agent. In certain embodiments, this invention provides uses for pharmaceutical combination for preparing, or for the manufacture of, a medicament for treating the diseases/disorders listed above. In another aspect, this invention provides methods for treating any of the aforementioned diseases and disorders adipocyte dysfunction related diseases, carbohydrate metabolism related diseases, vascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cancers, arthritis, osteoarthritis, spondylitis, bone resorption diseases, sepsis, septic shock, chronic pulmonary inflammatory disease, fever, periodontal diseases, ulcerative colitis, pyresis, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's diseases, cystic fibrosis, dysfunctions of the immune system, stroke, multiple sclerosis, migraine, pain, inflammatory eye conditions including uveitis, glaucoma and conjunctivitis, degenerative bone or joint conditions including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatoid spondylitis, gouty arthritis ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis and other arthritic conditions, as well as inflamed joints, chronic inflammatory skin conditions, including allergic lesions, lichen planus, pityriasis rosea, eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, diseases and disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, including inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, atrophic gastritis, gastritis varialo forme, ulcerative colitis, coeliac disease, regional ileitis, peptic ulceration, particularly irritable bowel syndrome, reflux oesophagitis, and damage to the gastrointestinal tract resulting from infections, for example, by Helicobacter pylori, inflammatory lung disorders such as asthma, bronchitis, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, farmer's lung, acute respiratory distress syndrome; bacteraemia, endotoxaemia (septic shock), aphthous ulcers, gingivitis, pyresis, particularly pain, including inflammatory pain, neuropathic pain, acute pain or pain of a central origin; meningitis and pancreatitis, and other conditions associated with inflammation, central nervous system inflammatory conditions and diseases, including ischaemia-reperfusion injury associated with ischemic stroke: vascular diseases, such as atheromatous and Eonatheromatous, ischemic heart disease, and Raynaud's Disease and Phenomenon in a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient comprising administering to the mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount, particularly a a synergistically effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition of a pharmaceutically acceptable composition comprising an antioxidant agent, an anti-inflammatory agent, optionally at least one other anti-diabetic agent, and at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. In certain embodiments, this invention provides uses for pharmaceutical combination for preparing, or for the manufacture of, a medicament for treating the diseases/disorders listed above.

The antioxidant agents and anti -inflammatory of this invention may be administered to a mammal, particularly a diabetic mammal, and specifically a human patient combined as a pharmaceutical combination or as a pharmaceutical composition. This invention also includes pharmaceutical combinations wherein the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents are administered at the same time, or nearly the same time, as separate agents. Combinations of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents according to this invention are provided in ratios of from about 30: 1 to about 1 :30, alternatively about 20:1 to about 1 :20 and in further alternatives from about 10:1 to about 1:10.

The term "anti-diabetic agent" as used herein means any one of metformin, glyburide, glimepiride, glipyride, glipizide, chlorpropamide, gliclazide, acarbose, miglitol, pioglitazone, troglitazone, rosiglitazone, insulin, isaglitazone, repaglinide, and nateglinide. In accordance with this invention, the pharmaceutical combinations or pharmaceutically acceptable compositions of this invention optionally include at least one anti-diabetic agent. Preferably, one anti-diabetic agent is optionally combined with the pharmaceutical combinations and pharmaceutically acceptable compositions of this invention.

The term "anti-inflammatory agent" as used herein means any one of sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, pcuαcciαmul, diclofenac, ibuprofen. dexibuprofen and dexketopro ten

The term "antioxidant agent" as used herein means any one of resveratrol. silibinin, alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, pterostiibene, N- acetyl cysteine, taurine, probucol. curcumin, alpfia-tocoplierol and idebenone. The term "N-acetylcysteine, or NAC as used herein includes esters and amides of

Is -acetylcysteine. Representative esters and amides of ^-acetylcysteine, include, but arc

Jl not limited to, methyl N-acetylcysteinate, ethyl N-acetylcysteinate, isopropyl N-acetylcysteinate, propyl N-acetylcysteinate, tert-butyl N-acetylcysteinate, and N -acetyicysteinamide. Further, the term "N-aeetyle> stein e" encompasses the (L) form, the (D) form, and mixtures or racemates thereof, wherein the (L) form is the preferred form of N -acetylcysteine .

The term "NSAID" as used herein means non-steroidal anti -inflammatory drug. NSAID agents are a subset of anti-inflammatory agents and include any one of the following sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, ibuprofen, dexibuprofen and dexketoprofen.

Combinations according to the invention include at least any anti-oxidant that is N-acetylcysteine, resveratrol, silibinin, σ-lipoic acid, particularly (R)- σ-lipoic acid, idebenone, taurine, probucol, curcumin, pterostilbene or σ-tocopherol, with at least any anti-inflammatory that is sulindac, salicylic acid or salts thereof, diflunisal, HTB, salsalate, naproxen, paracetamol, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, ibuprofen, or diclofenac. Particularly-advantageous embodiments of the combinations of this invention are combinations of the antioxidants N-acetylcysteine, alpha-lipoic acid (particularly (R)- alpha-lipolc acid) or taurine with anti-inflammatories sulindac, salicylic acid, diflunisal, 2-hydroxy-4-trifluoromethylbenzoic acid (HTB), naproxen, paracetamol, diclofenac, dexibuprofen or dexketoprofen. Particular embodiments of the combinations of the invention include the following:

TABLE I Antioxidants and anti-inflammatories screened at four- five different concentrations in the INS-IE β-cell assay (set forth belovΛ showing concentrations that reduced apoptcsis promoted by high (1 1 mM) glucose and high (0.4 mM) palmitate concentrations

J Compound i Concentration range , Combination concentrations I Antioxidants

N-acetvlcysteine i 0.1 - 3mM ! ImM. 1.5mM

Taurine ' 0.1 - 3mM i 3mM

Paiticular combinations providing at least a 30% inhibition of apoptosis in the INS-IE β-cell assay set forth below included:

• σ-lipoic acid (0.1 niM) and salicylate (0.5-ImM)

• σ-lipoic acid (0.1 mM) and dexibuprofen (0.5-ImM)

• σ-lipoic acid (0.1 mM) and dexketoprofen (0.5-ImM)

• σ-lipoic acid (0.1 mM) and diclofenac (0 ImM)

Particular combinations providing protection against insulin resistance in mouse 3T3-L adipocytes as described below include:

• N-acetylcysteine (1.SmM) and diflunisal (25μM)

• N-acetylcysteme ( 1 ,5mMj and diclofenac (25μM)

• N-acetylcysteine ( ϊ .5mM) and dexketoprofen (25 μM) • N-acetylcysteine ( 1.5mM) and dexibuprofen ( 1 OøμM)

• N-acetylcysteine (1.5niM) and salicylate (50μM)

Pharmaceutical Compositions This invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions that comprise compounds of this invention formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable earners. The pharmaceutical compositions may be specially formulated for oral administration in solid or liquid form, for parenteral injection, or for rectal administration. The invention particularly provides pharmaceutical compositions that comprise lipoic acid, preferrably (R) lipoic acid, in combination with one or more anti-inflammatories selected from the group consisting of diflunisal, diclofenac, dexibuprofen, dexketoprofen, naproxen, and salicylate, optionally formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers. The pharmaceutical compositions may be specially formulated for oral administration in solid or liquid form, for parenteral injection, or for rectal administration.

The term "pharmaceutically acceptable carrier" as used herein means a non-toxic, inert solid, semi-solid or liquid filler, diluent, encapsulating material or formulation auxiliary of any type. Some examples of materials which can serve as pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are sugars such as lactose, glucose and sucrose; starches such as corn starch and potato starch; cellulose and its derivatives such as sodium carboxymelhyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose and cellulose acetate; powdered tragacanth; malt; gelatin; talc; excipients such as cocoa butter and suppository waxes; oils such as peanut oil. cottonseed oil. safflower oil, sesame oil, olive oil, com oil and soybean oil; glycols; such a propylene glycol; esters such as ethyl oleate and ethyl laurate; agar; buffering agents such as magnesium hydiυλidc and aluminum hydroxide; aiginic acid: pyrogen-free water: isotonic saline: Ringer's solution; ethyl alcohol, and phosphate buffer solutions, as well as other non-toxic compatible lubricants such as sodium lauryl sulfate and magnesium stearate, as well as coloring agents, releasing agents, coating agents, sweetening, flavoring and perfuming agents, preseπ atives and antioxidants can also be present in the composition, according to the judgment of the formulator. This invention provides pharmaceutical compositions which comprise compounds of the invention formulated together with one or more non-toxic pharmaceutically acceptable carriers. The pharmaceutical compositions can be formulated for oral administration in solid or liquid form, for parenteral injection or for rectal administration. The pharmaceutical compositions of this invention can be administered to humans

(patients) and other mammals orally, rectally, parenterally, intracisternally, intraperitoneally, topically (as by powders, ointments or drops), bucally or as an oral or nasal spray. The term "parenterally," as used herein, refers to modes of administration which include intravenous, intramuscular, intraperitoneal, intrasternal, subcutaneous, intraarticular injection and infusion.

Pharmaceutical compositions of this invention for parenteral injection comprise pharmaceutically acceptable sterile aqueous or nonaqueous solutions, dispersions, suspensions or emulsions and sterile powders for reconstitution into sterile injectable solutions or dispersions. Examples of suitable aqueous and nonaqueous carriers, diluents, solvents or vehicles include water, ethanol, polyols (propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, glycerol, and the like), suitable mixtures thereof, vegetable oils (such as olive oil) and injectable organic esters such as ethyl oleate. Proper fluidity may be maintained, for example, by the use of a coating such as lecithin, by the maintenance of the required particle size in the case of dispersions, and by the use of surfactants. These compositions may also contain adjuvants such as preservative agents, wetting agents, emulsifying agents, and dispersing agents. Prevention of the action of microorganisms may be ensured by various antibacterial and antifungal agents, for example, parabens, chlorobutanol, phenol, sorbic acid, and the like. It may also be desirable to include isotonic agents, for example, sugars, sodium chloride and the like. Prolonged absorption of the injectable pharmaceutical form may be brought about by the ass of agents delaying absoiption, for example, aluminum moeostearate and gelatin

In some cases, in order to prolong the effect of a drug, it is often desirable to slow the absorption of the drug from subcutaneous or intramuscular injection. This may be accomplished by the use of a liquid suspension of crystalline or amorphous material with poor water solubility. The rate of absoiption of the drug then depends upon its rate of dissolution which, in turn, may depend upon crystal size and crystalline form. Alternatively, delayed absorption of a parenterally administered drug form is accomplished by dissolving or suspending the drug in an oil vehicle.

Suspensions, in addition to the active compounds, may contain suspending agents, as, for example, ethoxylated isostearyl alcohols, polyoxyethylene sorbitol and sorbitan esters, microcrystalline cellulose, aluminum metahydroxide, bentonite, agar-agar, tragacanth, and mixtures thereof.

If desired, and for more effective distribution, the compounds of this invention can be incorporated into slow-release or targeted-delivery systems such as polymer matrices, liposomes, and microspheres. They may be sterilized, for example, by filtration through a bacteria-retaining filter or by incorporation of sterilizing agents in the form of sterile solid compositions, which may be dissolved in sterile water or some other sterile injectable medium immediately before use.

The active compounds can also be in micro-encapsulated form, if appropriate, with one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers as noted above. The solid dosage forms of tablets, dragees, capsules, pills, and granules can be prepared with coatings and shells such as enteric coatings, release controlling coatings and other coatings well known in the pharmaceutical formulating art. In such solid dosage forms the active compound can be admixed with at least one inert diluent such as sucrose, lactose, or starch. Such dosage forms may also comprise, as is normal practice, additional substances other than inert diluents, e.g.. tableting lubricants and other tableting aids such a magnesium stearate and microcrystalline cellulose. In the case of capsules, tablets and pills, the dosage ferrets may also comprise buffering agents. They may optionally contain opacifying agents and can also be of such composition that they release the active ingredient(s) only, or preferentially, in a certain part of the intestinal tract in a delayed manner. Examples of embedding compositions which can be used include polymeric substances and waxes.

Injectable depot forms are made by forming microencapsulated matrices of the drag in biodegradable polymers such as polylactide-polyglycolidc. Depending upon the ratio of drug Io polymer and the nature of the particular polymer employed, the rate of drug release can be controlled. Examples of other biodegradable polymers include ρoly(orthoesiers) and polyf anhydrides) Depot injectable formulations are also prepared by entrapping the drag in liposomes or microemulsions which are compatible with body tissues.

The injectable formulations can be sterilized, for example, by filtration through a bacterial-retaining filter or by incorporating sterilizing agents in the form of sterile solid compositions which can be dissolved or dispersed in sterile water or other sterile injectable medium just prior to use.

Injectable preparations, for example, sterile injectable aqueous or oleaginous suspensions may be formulated according to the known art using suitable dispersing or wetting agents and suspending agents. The sterile injectable preparation may also be a sterile injectable solution, suspension or emulsion in a nontoxic, parenterally acceptable diluent or solvent such as a solution in 1 ,3-butanediol. Among the acceptable vehicles and solvents that may be employed are water, Ringer's solution, U. S. P. and isotonic sodium chloride solution. In addition, sterile, fixed oils are conventionally employed as a solvent or suspending medium. For this purpose any bland fixed oil can be employed including synthetic mono- or diglycerides. In addition, fatty acids such as oleic acid are used in the preparation of injectables.

Solid dosage forms for oral administration include capsules, tablets, pills, powders, and granules. In such solid dosage forms, the active compound is mixed with at least one inert pharmaceutically acceptable earner such as sodium citrate or calcium phosphate and/or a) fillers or extenders such as starches, lactose, sucrose, glucose, mannitol, and salicylic acid; b) binders such as carboxymethylcellulosc. alginates, gelatin, polyvinylpyrrolidinone, sucrose, and acacia; c) humectants such as glycerol; d) disintegrating agents such as agar-agar, calcium carbonate, potato or tapioca starch, alginic acid, certain silicates, and sodium carbonate; e) solution retarding agents such as paraffin; f) absorption accelerators such as quaternary ammonium compounds; g) wetting agents such as cetyl alcohol and glycerol monostearate; h) absorbents such as kaolin and bentonitc clay; and i) lubricants such as talc, calcium stearate, magnesium stearate. solid polyethylene glycols, sodium lauryl sulfate, and mixtures thereof. In the case of capsules, tablets and pills, the dosage form may also comprise buffering agents.

i ll Solid compositions of a similar type may also be employed as fillers in soft and hard-filled gelatin capsules using lactose or milk sugar as well as high molecular weight polyethylene glycols and the like.

The solid dosage forms of tablets, dragees, capsules, pills, and granules can be prepared with coatings and shells such as enteric coatings and other coatings well known in the pharmaceutical formulating art. They may optionally contain opacifying agents and can also be of a composition that they release the active ingredient(s) only, or preferentially, in a certain part of the intestinal tract in a delayed manner. Examples of embedding compositions which can be used include polymeric substances and waxes. Compositions for rectal administration are preferably suppositories which can be prepared by mixing the compounds of this invention with suitable non-irritating carriers such as cocoa butter, polyethylene glycol or a suppository wax which are solid at ambient temperature but liquid at body temperature and therefore melt in the rectum and release the active compound. Liquid dosage forms for oral administration include pharmaceutically acceptable emulsions, microemulsions, solutions, suspensions, syrups and elixirs. In addition to the active compounds, the liquid dosage forms may contain inert diluents commonly used in the art such as, for example, water or other solvents, solubilizing agents and emulsifiers such as ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, ethyl carbonate, ethyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, propylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, dimethyl formamidc, oils (in particular, cottonseed, groundnut, com, germ, olive, castor, and sesame oils), glycerol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, polyethylene glycols and fatty acid esters of sorbitan, and mixtures thereof.

Besides inert diluents, the oral compositions can also include adjuvants such as wetting agents, emulsifying and suspending agents, sweetening, flavoring, and perfuming

Dosage forms for topical or transdermal administration of a compound of this invention include ointments, pastes, creams, lotions, gels, powders, solutions, sprays. inhalants or patches. The active component is admixed under sterile conditions with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and any needed preservatives or buffers as may be required. Ophthalmic formulation, eardrops, eye ointments, powders and solutions are also contemplated as being within the scope of this invention.

The ointments, pastes, creams and gels may contain, in addition to an active compound of this invention, animal and vegetable fats, oils, waxes, paraffins, starch, tragacanth, cellulose derivatives, polyethylene glycols, silicones, bentonites, silicic acid, talc and zinc oxide, or mixtures thereof.

Powders and sprays can contain, in addition to the compounds of this invention, lactose, talc, silicic acid, aluminum hydroxide, calcium silicates and polyamide powder, or mixtures of these substances. Sprays can additionally contain customary propellants such as chlorofluorohydrocarbons.

Compounds of this invention may also be administered in the form of liposomes. As is known in the art, liposomes are generally derived from phospholipids or other lipid substances. Liposomes are formed by mono- or multi-lamellar hydrated liquid crystals that are dispersed in an aqueous medium. Any non-toxic, physiologically acceptable and metabolizable lipid capable of forming liposomes may be used. The present compositions in liposome form may contain, in addition to the compounds of this invention, stabilizers, preservatives, and the like. The preferred lipids are the natural and synthetic phospholipids and phosphatidylcholines (lecithins) used separately or together. Methods to form liposomes are known in the art. See, for example, Prescott, Ed., Methods in Cell Biology, Volume XIV, Academic Press, New York, N. Y., ( 1976), p 33 et seq.

The phrase "therapeutically effective amount" of the compound of this invention means a sufficient amount of the compound to treat metabolic disorders, at a reasonable benefit/risk ratio applicable to any medical treatment. The specific therapeutically effective dose level for any particular patient will depend upon a variety of factors including the disorder being treated and the severity of the disorder; activity of the specific compound employed: the specific composition employed; the age, body weight, general health, sex and diet of the patient; the time of administration, route of administration, and rate of excretion of the specific compound employed; the duration of the treatment; drugs used in combination or coincidental with the specific compound employed; and like factors well known in the medical arts. Actual dosage levels of active ingredients in the pharmaceutical compositions of this invention can be varied so as to obtain an amount of the active compound(s) which is effective to achieve the desired therapeutic response for a particular patient, compositions, and mode of administration. The selected dosage level will depend upon the activity of the particular compound, the route of administration, the severity of the condition being treated, and the condition and prior medical history of the patient being treated.

The total daily dose of the compounds of this invention administered to a mammal, and particularly a diabetic mammal and specifically a human patient, from about 0.03 to about 50 mg/kg/day. Forpuiposes of oral administration, more preferable doses can be in the range of from about 0.1 to about 50 mg/kg/day. If desired, the effective daily dose can be divided into multiple doses for purposes of administration, e.g. two to four separate doses per day. Specifically, antioxidants of the invention can be administered at dosages from about 100 mg to 3000 mg per day, and for anti- inflammatory compounds at dosages from about 250 mg to 3500 mg per day.

The term "pharmaceutically acceptable salt," as used herein, means a positively-charged inorganic or organic cation that is generally considered suitable for human consumption. Examples of pharmaceutically acceptable cations are alkali metals (lithium, sodium and potassium), magnesium, calcium, ferrous, ferric, ammonium, alkylammonium, dialkylammonium, lrialkylammonium, tetraalkyl ammonium, diethanolammmonium, and choline. Cations may be interchanged by methods known in the art, such as ion exchange. Where compounds of this invention are prepared in the carboxylic acid form, addition of a base (such as a hydroxide or a free amine) will >ield the appropriate salt form.

This imention contemplates pharmaceutically active metabolites formed by in vivo biotransformation of, for example, methyl N-acetylcysteinate. ethyl N-acetylcysteinate. isopropyl N-acetylcysteinate, propyl N-acetylcysteinate, tert-butyl N-acetylcysteinate, and N"-acetylcysteinamide, to N-acetyl cysteine. A thorough discussion of biotransformation is provided in (Goodman and Oilman's, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, seventh edition). All patents, patent applications, and literature references cited in the specification are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety for any purpose.

EXAMPLES Experimental Methods

Anti-oxidants/Anti-inflaminatories

N-Acetyl-cysteine, Sodium Salicylate, Taurine, alpha-Tocopherol, Sodium Diclofenac, Dexketoprofen, Naproxen, Curcumine, Silibinin, Idebenone, Pterostilbene, Sulindac, Paracetamol and DMSO were purchased from Sigma (Sigma Aldrich, St. Louis, MO, USA), Diflunisal and dexibuprofen, were purchase from Galchimia, S.L. (Galchimia S.L., A Corufϊa, Spain), Resveratrol was purchased from Sequoia Research Products Limited (Sequoia Research Products Ltd, Pangbourne, United Kingdom). (R)-or-lipoic acid was purchased from TCI (TCI Europe, Zwijndrecht, Belgium). 2-hydroxy-4- trifluoromethylbenzoie acid (HTB) was purchased from Matrix Scientific (Matrix Scientific, Columbia, SC, USA). PBS was purchased from Invitrogen (Invitrogen S.A., Barcelona. Spain). N-Acetyl-cysteine, Sodium Salicylate, Taurine, Paracetamol and Naproxen were dissolved in PBS and the pH adjusted with NaOH 6N until pH 7. Curcumine, Idebenone, Diflunisal, Sulindac and Pterostilbene were dissolved in DMSO. Dexibuprofen, Dexketoprofen, Diflunisal and HTB were dissolved in a mix PBS/DMSO 1 :1. (R)-α-lipoic acid was dissolved in NaCl 0.9% and the pH adjusted with NaOH 6N and HCl 30% until pH 7 4

In Vitro INS-IE β-Cell Assay

INS-IE /3-cells were cultivated in the presence of a high glucose concentration (1 1 mM) and a high palmitate concentration (0,4 mM bound to BSA 0.5 %) in order to promote glαwjtυλicity and iipotoxicity. The combination of both stressors promoted /5-cell apoptosis. The capacity of protecting /3-cells with different combinations of antioxydants and anti-inflammatory agents were tested using these stressing conditions that reflect the pathophysiological conditions implicated in pancreatic dysfunction related to diabetes on&faf, INS- 1 E cells were seeded at a density of 80,000 cells ^; cm ^z in 96 wells, plates 4 days before the beginning of the treatment. At 60-SO % of confluence, cells were fasted

Li: with RPMI 5mM of glucose + FBS 10%. 8 h later, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents, specifically (R) lipoic acid, naproxen, dexketoprofen, diclofenac, or diflimisal, alone or in combination were added overnight at the indicated concentrations; specific concentrations are set forth in Figures 4 and 5. The day after, fasting medium was changed by the stressing medium (glucose 25 mM + palmitate 0.4 mM bound to BSA 0.5 %). Medium, and tested agents when present, were changed eveiy 24 h. 48 h after the addition of the stressing medium, apoptosis was measured with Apo-One Homogeneous Caspase 3/7 Assay (Promega) which determines the activity of caspase 3 and 7. Cells were frozen at -80 ⁰ C for 2 hours, defrosted at room temperature and incubated in the presence of 100 μl of caspase reactive for 20 hours. Resulting fluorescence was read at 485/530 (excitation/emission wave length). The background apoptosis, in absence of stressing condition, was determined with INS IE β-cells cultured in the presence of fasting medium (RPMI 5 mM glucose + FBS 10 %) ^' . Staurosporine 0.2 % in the presence of 0.5 % BSA was used as a positive control of apoptosis.

Animals

Male cd-1 mice weighing 25-30 g were purchased from Charles River Laboratories Spain. 5 -weeks old male mice C57BL/Ks bearing the db/db mutation (The Jackson Laboratories) and 7-weeks old male mice C57BL/6 bearing the ob/ob mutation were purchased from Charles River Laboratories Spain (Sant Cugat del Valles, Spain). The animals were housed in animal quarters at 22 ⁰ C with a 12-h light / 12-h dark cycle and fed ad libitum.

Chronic Treatment in db/db aacl ob/ob Mice The animals were treated with the indicated drugs for four weeks. The administration route υf in vivo administered dings is indicated for each treatment in the text of the report. The glycemia levels were determined at 9:00 a.m. in blood from the Tail Vein using a rapid glucose analyzer (Accu-Chek A viva; Roche) 3 times per week and body weight was measured also. Food and water intake were measured twice a week. Glycemia fasting levels were determined at 9:00 a.m. in blood from the Tail Vein ater an overnight fasting using a rapid glucose analyzer. At the end of four weeks, the mice were

1 .3 J sacrificed, in feeding state, with CO2 euthanasia and the blood was extracted from the Inferior Cave Vein using heparin as an anticoagulant and maintained at 4°C until plasma preparation.

Intraperitoneal Insulin Tolerance Test.

At the third week of treatment, an Insulin Tolerance Test was done to the mice in the feeding state. The animals received an i.p. injection of Insulin 2 UI/kg (Humulin®).

After the Insulin injection, glycemia levels were determined using a rapid glucose analyzer at the indicated time in blood from the Tail Vein.

Intraperitoneal Glucose Tolerance Test.

At the fourth week, a Glucose Tolerance Test was done to the mice after an overnight fasting. The animals received an i.p. injection of Glucose 0.5 g/kg (Glucosmon 50 ®).

After the Glucose injection, glycemia levels were determined using a rapid glucose analyzer in blood at the indicated time from the Tail Vein.

In Vivo /3-CeIl Protection Model β-cell destruction was induced in cd-1 male mice after 3 hours of fasting by a single intra-peritoneal (i.p.) injection of a freshly prepared solution of alloxan 200 mg/kg (Sigma- Aldrich, San Luis, MO) that was dissolved in NaCl 0.9%. One single intra- peritoneal drug administration was given one hour before the Alloxan administration. Animals received the different drugs dissolved in PBS pH 7.4 and the animals that did not receive any drug were injected with vehicle, PBS pH 7.4. At the end of the treatment, day 4, animals were sacrificed and the plasma collected and kept at -20 ⁰ C until used.

Biochemical Parameters

The circulating glucose concentration was determined by a rapid glucose analyzer (Accu- Cfaek A viva: Roche). Plasma triglycerides and non esterified fatty acids were determined with standard colorimetric methods (Biosystems. Barcelona. Spain, and Wako Chemicals. Neuss, Germany, respectively). Plasma insulin concentration was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method ( Crystal Chem. Downers Grove. IL), Total pancreas insulin content was determined after extraction of insulin from pancreas homogenates with a mixture of Ethanol (70 %)/HCl (0.15 N).

Statistical analysis. Statistical comparisons between groups were established by two-way ANOVA or oneway ANOVA using Prism 4 (GraphPad, San Diego, CA). A p value of less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Statisticaly significant differences are indicated as follow: *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01 ; ***. P < 0.001.

Biological Data

The animals for Examples 1 and 2 were housed in animal quarters at 22°C with a 12-h light/ 12-h dark cycle and were fed ad libitum. All procedures used were approved by the animal ethical committee of the Scientific Park of Barcelona-University of Barcelona. N-Acetyl-cysteine and Sodium Salicylate were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich

(St. Louis, MO, USA) and PBS was purchased from Invitrogen.

Example 1

Male cd-1 mice weighing 25-30 g were purchased from Charles River

Laboratories Spain (Sant Cugat del Valles, Spain). Pancreatic beta cell destruction was induced in the cd-1 mice after 3 hours of fasting by a single intraperitoneal injection of a freshly prepared solution of alloxan 200mg/kg (Sigma-Aldrich, San Luis, MO) that was dissolved in NaCl 0.9%. Single drug intraperitoneal administration was 1 hour before the alloxan administration. Animals received N-acetylcysteine 0.19mmol/kg alone, Sodium

Salicylate 0.75mmol/kg alone, or the combination of both. The control group was injected with the vehicle, PBS at pH 7.4. GJycemia was measured on arterio-venous blood collected from the tail vessels between 9:00 and 10:00 am on day 0 (day of drag administration) to day 4. The circulating glucose concentration were determined by a rapid glucose analj/zer (Accu-Chek Aviva: Roche). Statistical comparisons between groups were established by two-way ANOVA using Prism 4 (GraphPad, San Diego, CA). Ap value of less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Example 2

Chronic Treatment of db/db Mice

Eight week old Male mice C57BL/Ks bearing the db/db mutation (The Jackson Laboratories) were purchased from Charles River Laboratories Spain (Sant Cugat del Valles, Spain). The db/db mice were treated i.p. with N-acetylcysteine alone, sodium salicylate alone, or the combination of N-acetylcysteine and sodium salicylate at 0.75 mmol/kg/day. After 4 weeks of treatment, mice were sacrificed with CO ₂ euthanasia and blood was extracted from the inferior cave vein and maintained at 4°C until plasma obtention by centrifugation (13 000 g) for 15 min at 4°C, and stored at -8O ⁰ C until use for the measure of plasma triglycerides and nonesterified fatty acids. Plasma triglycerides and nonesterified fatty acids were determined with standard colorimetric methods (Biosystems, Barcelona, Spain, and Wako Chemicals, Neuss, Germany, respectively).

Statistical comparisons between groups were established by two-way ANOVA using Prism 4 (GraphPad, San Diego, CA). Kp value of less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

The results of Experiments 1 and 2 show that the combination of an antioxidant agent and an anti -inflammatory agent is more effective at reducing glucose, free fatty acids, and triglyceride levels than an antioxidant alone or an anti-inflammatory alone. The additive or synergistic effect improves anti-diabetic effect while reducing side effects associated with monotherapy. In particular, treatment with the pharmaceutical combination of N-acetylcysteine and sodium salicylate improves anti-diabelic effects while lowering the risk of gastric bleeding and/or tinnitus associated with salicylic acid.

Futher exemplary experimental results showing the efficacy of certain embodiments of the combinations of the invention are set forth in the drawings. As set forth in greater detail in Example 1 , N-acetyl cysteine alone, sodium salicylate alone, and the combination of N -acetyl cysteine and sodium salicylate was administered over a 5- day period cd-1 mice in which pancreatic beta cell destruction was induced using alloxan. As shown in Figure 6, glucose levels were reduced (expressed as glycemia in mg/mL) by administration of the combination of N-acetyl cysteine and sodium salicylate compared with treatment with vehicle, N-acetylcysteine or sodium salicylate separately, having a significance of p<0.0001 by two-way ANOVA analysis.

These results of acute administration of N-acetyl cysteine and sodium salicylate were consistent with the results of chronic administration of N-acetyl cysteine and sodium salicylate to db/db mice over a four-week course of treatment on free fatty acids and triglycerides (markers of metabolic syndrome). As shown in Figure 8, administration of the combination of N-acetyl cysteine and sodium salicylate showed a statistically- significant decrease in free fatty acid concentration in the systemic circulation of db/db mice compared with treatment with vehicle, N-acetylcysteine or sodium salicylate separately. Similarly, administration of the combination of N-acetyl cysteine and sodium salicylate showed a statistically-significant decrease in triglycerides in the systemic circulation of db/db mice compared with treatment with vehicle, N-acetylcysteine or sodium salicylate separately. These experiments are set forth in greater detail in Example

2.

The effects of combinations of (R)-alpha-lipoic acid with diclofenac, dexibuprofen and dexkeloprofen on cellular stress on pancreatic beta-cell function was investigated using an in vitro model system, INS- IE beta-cells. Cells were incubated in the presence of glucose (1 ImM) and palmitate concentration (0.4 mM bound to BSA 0.5 %) at concentrations associated with glucotoxic and lipotoxic stress associated with beta- cell apcptcsis. Cells were pi cheated overnight with I ₁ R) alpha-hpoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof alone (100 μM), diclofenac (100 μM), dexibuprofen (500 μM), or dexketoprofen (500 μM) alone or in combinations of (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof { i00 μM) and diclofenac ( 100 μM), (R) alpha-lipoϊc acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof (100 μM) and dexibuprofen (500 μM), or (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable

13 ^' salt thereof (100 μM) and dexketoprofen (500 μM). As shown in Figure 1 , incubation of the cells with each of these combinations showed a much greater reduction in apoptosis that administration of (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, declofenac, dexibuprofen or dexketoprofen alone.

These experiments were repeated using the same cells under the same apoptosis- inducing ("stressing") conditions in a comparison of the effects of (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof alone (100 μM), sodium salicylate alone (500 μM), or the combination of (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof (100 μM) and sodium salicylate (500 μM). The results of these experiments, shown in Figure 2, indicated that the combination of (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof (100 μM) and sodium salicylate (500 μM) had a significantly greater increase in cellular viability under stressing conditions than incubation oflNS-lE-beta-cells with (R) alpha-lipoic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof or sodium salicylate separately.

The effects of N-acetylcysteine and sodium salicylate administration on glycemia and insulinemia was assessed by treatment of cd-1 mice with alloxan-induced beta-cell destruction. Salicylate was administered i.p. alone at three different concentrations (0.38, 0.75, and 1.5 mmol/kg) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) was admninistered i.p. alone at two different concentrations (0.38 and 0.75 mmol/kg). As shown in Figure 3, significant reductions of glycemia were observed only at the highest administered concentrations of either compound. Similarly, insulinemia was significantly increased at the highest concentrations of NAC administered to alloxan-treated cd- 1 mice.

These effects on glycemia after i.p. administration were mimicked ai much lower concentrations when KAC and sodium salicylate were administered to alloxan-treated cd- 1 mice. Administration of NAC (0.19 mmυl4g) or sodium salicylate (0.38mmol'kg) in amounts previously shown not to affect gl>cemia in alloxan-treated cd-1 mice were shown to significantly reduce glycemia when administered together in these amounts. These results are shown in Figure 4, show ing statistical significance in a two-way AXOVA of p<0,05. These results were also found using higher administered salicylate amounts (0.75 mmol/kg), as shown in Figure 5. Administration of NAC (0.38 mmol/kg) and sodium salicylate (0.75 mmol/kg) to alloxan-treated cd-1 cells at concentrations where both compounds showed statistically-significant reductions in glycemia showed synergistic effects on glycemia having statistical significance of pO.OOOl using two way ANOVA (Figure 5).

The effects of co-administration of NAC and salicylate were further assessed by chronic administration of these compounds alone or in combination to ob/ob mice. Salicylate (75 mg/kg/day by subcutaneous (s.c.) infusion) and N-acetylcysteine (NAC, 0.1 % in drinking water) were administered alone or in combination to 7-8 week old ob/ob mice for four weeks and the effects on fasting glycemia assessed as set forth herein using a rapid glucose analyzer (Accu-Chek Aviva; Roche). The results of these assays are shown in Figure 7, wherein administration of the combination of NAC and sodium salicylate was determined to have a statistically-significant reduction in fasting glycemia. Plasma triglycerides and free fatty acids were also determined in these mice, and statistically-significant reductions of free fatty acid and triglyceride levels were found.

The effects of co-administration of (R) alpha-lipoic acid and salicylate on fasting glycemia in 5 week old db/db mice were determined. (R) alpha-lipoic acid (10mg/kg/day, administered i.p.) and salicylate (75mg/kg ^/ day, administered by s.c. infusion) were admninistered, alone or in combination, over a four-week treatment course and fasting glycemia determined. As shown in Figure 9, fasting glycemia was reduced by the combination of of (R) alpha-lipoic acid and salicylate. The percentage of HbAIc (a measure of long-term glycemia control determined by assessing the extend of glycosylation of red blood cell hemoglobin) to ioiai hemoglobin was determined in these mice after 4 weeks of treatment with (R) alpha-lipoic acid and salicylate alone or in combination under the same conditions and administration amounts of routes used in the glycemia assays. Shown in figure 9, combination treatment showed a statistically- significant reduction in HbAIc to levels close to those found in control (db/—) mice. The effects of co-administration of another antioxidant, taurine, and salicylate were assessed by chronic administration of these compounds alone or in combination to ob/ob mice. Salicylate (75 mg/kg/day by subcutaneous (s.c.) infusion) and N-acetyl cysteine (2.5% in drinking water) were administered alone or in combination to 7- week old ob/ob mice for four weeks and the effects on fasting glycemia assessed as set forth herein. The results of these assays are shown in Figure 10, wherein administration of the combination of taurine and sodium salicylate was determined to have a statistically-significant reduction in fasting glycemia.

MO