Nasal insulin brain study pulled before it even started

NCT ID NCT06434038

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study aimed to see if insulin, given as a nasal spray, reaches the fluid around the brain and spinal cord. Researchers planned to give a single dose of low or high insulin (or a placebo) to 18 healthy adults aged 36–55, then collect samples via spinal tap at several time points. However, the study was withdrawn before enrolling anyone, so no data were collected.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

insulin (Novolin-R) nasal spray

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show that nasal insulin reaches the brain, supporting future research into memory and mood treatments.

What could go wrong

The study was withdrawn before any participants enrolled, so no results are available. It was a small, early-phase trial with healthy volunteers, not patients.

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.

Insulin Resistance

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • HealthPartners Neuroscience Center

    Saint Paul, Minnesota, 55130, United States