Surgery or pills? new study tests best way to treat teen diabetes

NCT ID NCT04128995

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compares two approaches for treating type 2 diabetes in teenagers: weight-loss surgery (vertical sleeve gastrectomy) versus intensive medical therapy (including metformin and other drugs). The goal is to see which method provides better blood sugar control and reduces related health problems. About 88 teens aged 13-19 with type 2 diabetes are participating.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

bariatric surgery (vertical sleeve gastrectomy) and advanced medical therapy (metformin, GLP-1 agonist, SGLT-2 inhibitor, or basal insulin)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show that bariatric surgery is a more effective option than medication alone for managing type 2 diabetes in teenagers, potentially leading to better long-term health.

What could go wrong

This is a relatively small study (88 participants) and results may not apply to all teens. Surgery carries risks, and the medical therapy may be just as effective for some. Long-term outcomes are still unknown.

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.

obesity disorder Pediatric Obesity type 2 diabetes mellitus

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Children's Hospital Colorado

    Aurora, Colorado, 80045, United States

  • Cincinnati Childrens

    Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229, United States

  • Lurie Children's Hospital

    Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States