Could a common diabetes drug protect the brain in Huntington's?

NCT ID NCT04826692

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether metformin, a widely used diabetes drug, can slow the loss of thinking skills in people with Huntington's disease. Sixty adults took either metformin or a placebo for one year. Researchers measured changes in memory, attention, and other cognitive functions using standard tests.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

metformin

What this could lead to

If it works, metformin could offer a safe, affordable way to slow cognitive decline in Huntington's disease.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase trial. Metformin is not a cure, and it may not improve thinking or memory. Results may not apply to all 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.

Huntington disease

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Complejo Hospitalario de Albacete

    Albacete, Castille-La Mancha, 02006, Spain

  • Hospital General Universitario Dr. Balmis

    Alicante, Alicante, 03010, Spain

  • Hospital General Universitario de Elche

    Elche, Alicante, 03203, Spain

  • Hospital Universitari Son Espases

    Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands, 07120, Spain

  • Hospital Universitario Burgos

    Burgos, Castille and León, 09006, Spain

  • Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias

    Oviedo, Principality of Asturias, 33011, Spain

  • Hospital Universitario Mare de Déu de la Mercé

    Barcelona, Barcelona, 08035, Spain

  • Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal

    Madrid, Madrid, 28034, Spain

  • Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe

    Valencia, València, 46026, Spain