Using metformin to improve treatment for tuberculosis in people with HIV
Trial of Metformin for TB/HIV Host-directed Therapy
This study is looking at whether metformin, a diabetes medication, can help people with both tuberculosis and HIV get better faster when combined with their usual TB treatment, and it’s for those who might struggle with standard therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10870157 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of metformin, a medication commonly used for diabetes, as a potential treatment to enhance the effectiveness of tuberculosis (TB) therapy in patients who are also living with HIV. The study aims to stimulate the body's natural defenses to help clear TB more quickly and effectively, particularly in individuals who face challenges with traditional multi-drug regimens. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either metformin or a placebo alongside standard TB treatment, with a focus on monitoring safety and tolerability. The goal is to determine if metformin can improve health outcomes for this vulnerable population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are co-infected with tuberculosis and HIV.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have tuberculosis or HIV may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more effective TB treatment for patients living with HIV, potentially reducing mortality and improving recovery.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for metformin in enhancing immune responses in TB patients, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kornfeld, Hardy — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Kornfeld, Hardy
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.