Topical insulin for healing corneal epithelium after crosslinking in keratoconus patients

Effects of Topical Insulin on Corneal Epithelium Healing After Corneal Crosslinking in Patients With Keratoconus: A Randomized Clinical Trial

PHASE3 · University of Campinas, Brazil · NCT06601101

This study is testing if insulin eye drops can help people with keratoconus heal better after a specific eye treatment called corneal crosslinking.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE3
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment36 (estimated)
Ages14 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Campinas, Brazil (other)
Drugs / interventionsradiation
Locations1 site (Campinas, São Paulo)
Trial IDNCT06601101 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of topical insulin on the healing of the corneal epithelium following corneal crosslinking in patients diagnosed with keratoconus. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either insulin eye drops or a placebo, with the aim of assessing the impact on visual acuity and corneal health. The study will involve comprehensive evaluations including biomicroscopy, keratometry, and optical coherence tomography to monitor healing progress. The goal is to determine if insulin can enhance epithelial recovery and reduce postoperative complications.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients diagnosed with keratoconus who are indicated for corneal crosslinking.

Not a fit: Patients with diabetes mellitus, severe dry eye, limbal stem cell deficiency, glaucoma, or allergies to insulin or methylcellulose may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve healing times and reduce complications for patients undergoing corneal crosslinking.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of insulin in this context is novel, previous studies have explored growth factors for corneal healing, indicating potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with a diagnosis of keratoconus, indicated for corneal crosslinking

Exclusion Criteria:

* Diabetes Mellitus
* Severe dry eye
* Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency
* Glaucoma
* Insulin or methylcellulose allergy

Where this trial is running

Campinas, São Paulo

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Keratoconus, Cornea Disease, Eye Diseases, Wound Heal, Topical Insulin, Crosslinking

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.