Can texting and rewards get teens to take their insulin?

NCT ID NCT05280184

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Nemours Children's Clinic Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether combining text message reminders with small rewards (behavioral economics) could help 173 teens with type 1 diabetes take their insulin more consistently. Participants used an insulin pump and had a history of missing mealtime doses. The goal was to improve their average blood sugar (HbA1c) and daily insulin use. The trial has completed, but some key data on time in range were not available due to vendor issues.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: behavioral economics incentives and automated text message reminders
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could offer a low-cost, non-drug way to help teens with type 1 diabetes better manage their insulin dosing and blood sugar levels.
What could go wrong: This was a small, completed feasibility study, not a large-scale trial. The primary outcome on time in range was unavailable due to data access issues, limiting conclusions.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

type 1 diabetes mellitus

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

TYPE 1 DIABETES

Contacts and locations

Locations

Children's Mercy Kansas City

Kansas City, Missouri, 64108, United States
Nemours Children's Health

Jacksonville, Florida, 32207, United States

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