Could a nasal spray of insulin help Parkinson's symptoms?

NCT ID NCT04251585

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

Summary

This Phase 2 trial tested whether insulin sprayed into the nose is safe for people with Parkinson's disease. Over 3 weeks, 31 participants received either intranasal insulin or a placebo. Researchers monitored safety events like low blood sugar and weight loss, and also looked at changes in thinking, mood, and movement. The goal was to see if this approach could be a safe way to potentially ease non-motor and motor symptoms.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

intranasal insulin (Novolin R)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a simple, non-invasive way to ease thinking and movement problems in Parkinson's disease.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early safety trial with only 31 people over 3 weeks. It may not show clear benefits, and insulin can cause low blood sugar or weight loss.

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 Parkinson disease

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