Scientists have discovered a new way to treat patients with Type 2 diabetes.

Researchers from Aberdeen University's Rowett Institute, have identified the medication lorcaserin could be used to treat Type 2 diabetes.

It is usually prescribed to help patients lose weight by regulating how hungry the person feels but researchers have also discovered the drug can reduce glucose levels and increase the body's cells sensitivity to insulin.

Professor Lora Heisler, who is leading the Aberdeen team, explains: "Current medications for Type 2 diabetes improve symptoms of this disease by acting in the body.

"We have discovered that this obesity drug, lorcaserin, acts in the brain to improve Type 2 diabetes.

"This discovery is important because Type 2 diabetes is an incredibly prevalent disease in the modern world and new treatment choices are needed."