Abatacept (Orencia) may slow down the progression of recently diagnosed type 1 diabetes

This study tested the efficacy of a new drug that may slow down the progression of type 1 diabetes. The main outcome was that Abatacept (Orencia) slowed down the decline in insulin production.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. This means that the body’s immune system begins to attack its own cells, causing the disease. In type 1 diabetes, immune system activation leads to the destruction of beta cells in the pancreas (responsible for insulin production). It is hypothesized that a major factor involved in beta cell destruction is the over-activation of specific cells of the immune system, called T cells. Blocking this over-activation could potentially slow down the progression of type 1 diabetes and prevent complications.

Abatacept is a drug used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis (other autoimmune diseases). Its mechanism of action involves blocking the over-activation of T cells without causing excessive immune suppression (which could lead to infections).

Because type 1 diabetes is a disease of the young (usually diagnosed in children under age 15), slowing down its evolution can lead to better blood sugar control, which may be difficult at childhood. This in turn can prevent complications caused byIn conclusion, even though the disease continued its progression after less than a year of treatment, overall Abatacept showed potential in slowing down the decline of insulin production.long-lasting diabetes.

The study involved 112 patients recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, with an average age of 14. Two thirds received Abatacept and the rest received placebo (an inactive drug). Patients were treated and followed up for 2 years. Results of the study showed that compared to placebo, Abatacept slowed down the decline in insulin production. This was assessed by testing the C-peptide level, a byproduct created when insulin is produced. The benefit was observed for the first 9.6 months of treatment (on average). After this, the disease continued its progression.

In conclusion, even though the disease continued its progression after less than a year of treatment, overall Abatacept showed potential in slowing down the decline of insulin production.

The results are encouraging, but it is important to note the small size of this trial. Larger, less homogenous, trials are needed to confirm these findings.