Could a common diabetes drug tame inflammation in drug users?

NCT ID NCT06829238

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: University of Alabama at Birmingham Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tests whether metformin, a common diabetes drug, can reduce harmful inflammation and improve immune function in 100 adults aged 18-64 who have a history of injection drug use, some of whom also have HIV. Participants take metformin or a placebo for 16 weeks and receive two vaccines to see how their immune systems respond. The goal is to find a safe way to restore immune balance in this high-risk group.

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, this could point toward a way to reduce chronic inflammation and improve vaccine responses in people with a history of injection drug use.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase trial with only 100 participants, so results may not apply broadly. Metformin is generally safe but can cause gastrointestinal side effects.

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.

HIV infectious disease immune system disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

HIV IMMUNE DYSREGULATION INJECTION DRUG USE SYSTEMIC INFLAMMATION

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Alabama at Birmingham
RECRUITING

Birmingham, Alabama, 35294, United States

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