Can an Arthritis Drug Save Insulin Production in Type 1 Diabetes?

By Dalton Price

A currently-enrolling trial is investigating a new arthritis medication along with type 2 diabetes drug Victoza, aiming to preserve insulin production in people with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes

Clinical Trials Identifier: NCT02443155

Trial name: A Clinical Proof-of-principle Trial in Adult Subjects With Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Investigating the Effect of NNC0114-0006 and Liraglutide on Preservation of Beta-cell Function

Diabetes type: Type 1

What the trial is testing: This study will test the efficacy of the new drug called NNC0114-0006 (a medication originally developed to treat rheumatoid arthritis) in conjunction with Victoza (liraglutide, a drug commonly used for treating type 2 diabetes). The aim is to preserve the body’s insulin production in people with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes.

What the trial is measuring: Researchers will measure C-peptide, which is an indication of insulin production. The higher C-peptide levels are in the blood, the more insulin is being produced by the body. Other measurements will include A1c, daily insulin dose, and instances of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Why this is important: In type 1 diabetes the body’s own immune system attacks beta cells – the ones that produce insulin. Some of these cells are often still functioning at diagnosis, and preserving them could make a meaningful difference on life with diabetes. Preliminary data has shown that a combination of two medications (one called NNC0114-0006 and liraglutide) may preserve beta cell function, allowing natural insulin production by the pancreas to continue. The hope it that, if successful, this combination therapy could slow down (or even prevent) the progression of type 1 diabetes and decreasing dependence on insulin.

Trial length: 17 months

Trial location: 107 locations around the world including Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, London (UK) and more. Visit this site and click the “Locations” tab to see the full list.

Do you qualify?

Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes no more than 20 weeks prior to screening
BMI (body mass index) higher or equal to 18.5 kg/m2 – calculate here
Aged 18-45
Use insulin

Exclusion criteria include:

Using more than 1 unit per kg of bodyweight per day of insulin or using an insulin pump
Having a history of recurrent, chronic infections (e.g., pneumonia) or conditions predisposing to chronic infections (e.g., bronchiectasis and chronic osteomyelitis)
Having a history of severe fungal infections within the 12 months prior to screening, unless treated and resolved
Receiving a vaccination within the past four weeks
Taking any other medications or herbal products that can influence the immune system within 90 days prior to screening
Having a history of pancreatitis