Could a diabetes shot help your brain fight obesity?

NCT ID NCT01239550

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at whether adding the drug insulin detemir to a low-calorie diet helps obese adults with type 2 diabetes lose more weight and improve brain function related to food reward. About 240 people will be split into two groups: one on diet only, the other on diet plus daily insulin shots. The trial lasts 26 weeks and includes brain scans and blood tests.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

insulin detemir (Levemir)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a way to boost weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes by improving brain reward signaling.

What could go wrong

This is an early-stage study with only 240 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Adding insulin carries a risk of low blood sugar.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

diabetes mellitus Insulin Resistance Obesity obesity disorder type 2 diabetes mellitus

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Vanderbilt University

    Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, United States