Could a common diabetes drug help repair MS damage in kids?
NCT ID NCT04121468
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether metformin, a widely used diabetes drug, is safe and feasible for children and young adults (ages 10-25) with multiple sclerosis. Participants take metformin daily for 3 to 9 months, with the start time randomly assigned. The main goal is to see if the drug can help repair nerve damage in the eye, which may indicate broader benefits for the brain.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
metformin (a common diabetes drug)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a way to repair nerve damage in young people with MS, potentially slowing disease progression.
What could go wrong
This is a very early, small trial (20 people) focused on safety and feasibility, not effectiveness. Metformin is not proven for MS, and side effects are possible.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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The Hospital for Sick Children
RECRUITINGToronto, Ontario, M5G 1X8, Canada
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••