Could a common Weight-Loss drug shield the brain? early trial launches
NCT ID NCT06171152
First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This pilot study tests whether liraglutide (Saxenda), a weight-loss drug, can raise levels of a brain-protective protein called BDNF in 30 people with multiple sclerosis, long-COVID, or leukemia who are overweight and have memory or concentration problems. Participants will inject liraglutide daily for about 21 weeks while researchers track BDNF levels. The study is currently suspended and is very early-stage, so it aims to gather clues rather than prove a treatment works.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
liraglutide (Saxenda)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a way to protect the brain in people with multiple sclerosis, long-COVID, or leukemia who also struggle with weight and thinking problems.
What could go wrong
This is a very early, small pilot study (30 people) that is currently suspended. It only measures a blood marker (BDNF), not actual cognitive improvement, so even positive results may not lead to a treatment.
Disclaimer
Read more
Show less
This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center
Chicago, Illinois, 60637, United States