Abstract: The present invention provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising antagonists of hepatic sympathetic activity and methods for using said pharmaceutical compositions for treatment of hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinaemia, hyperlipidaemia, hypertriglyceridaemia, diabetes, insulin resistance, impaired glucose metabolism, conditions of impaired glucose tolerance, conditions of impaired fasting plasma glucose, obesity, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy, glomerulosclerosis, diabetic neuropathy, syndrome X, renal failure, sexual dysfunction, chronic stress, and anxiety.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and materials for diagnosing a metabolic disorder comprising measuring insulin and HISS action or alternatively HISS levels, first in a fasting state and again, following consumption of a mixed standard meal. The metabolic disorders diagnosed using the disclosed methods and materials include insulin resistance, pre-diabetes and diabetes. The present invention also provides kits for practicing the disclosed methods.