New Treatments & Clinical Trials for Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes affects roughly 37 million Americans and happens when the body can't use insulin properly. Treatment has evolved from lifestyle changes and metformin to include GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide, SGLT2 inhibitors, and insulin when needed. Many people now achieve blood sugar control that reduces heart and kidney complications.

What's actually going on in research

Trials are testing dual and triple hormone agonists that may improve weight and blood sugar beyond current drugs, earlier use of combination therapies, medications that protect the heart and kidneys independent of blood sugar control, and approaches to preserve the insulin-producing beta cells. Researchers are also studying whether treating diabetes differently based on individual disease mechanisms improves outcomes.

What to know before you search

Eligibility typically depends on hemoglobin A1c level, years since diagnosis, current medications, weight, and presence of complications like heart or kidney disease.

What types of trials are currently open

• Treatment trials — Testing new diabetes medications or combinations to see if they lower blood sugar, promote weight loss, or work better than current options.
• Cardiovascular outcome trials — Large studies following people for years to see if a diabetes drug prevents heart attacks, strokes, and death. Required by FDA for most new diabetes medications.
• Kidney protection trials — Testing whether diabetes medications slow kidney disease progression or prevent kidney failure.
• Prevention trials — Studies in people with prediabetes testing whether medications, lifestyle programs, or both can prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.
• Device trials — Testing continuous glucose monitors, insulin pumps, and automated insulin delivery systems in people with type 2 diabetes who use insulin.