Nasal insulin brain study pulled before it even started

NCT ID NCT06434038

Terminated Knowledge-focused Sponsor: HealthPartners Institute Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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 However, the study was withdrawn before enrolling anyone, so no data were collected.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What could go wrong: The study was withdrawn before any participants enrolled, so no results are available.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.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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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.

HEALTHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

HealthPartners Neuroscience Center

Saint Paul, Minnesota, 55130, United States

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