Drug trial is paying off
DIABETES PATIENT MORE ENERGETIC SINCE JOINING
CLINICAL trials of a diabetes treatment are paying off for one participant.
John Dickins, who has type 2 diabetes, said he is feeling stronger and more energetic this Diabetes Week since taking dapagliflozin as part of a study sponsored by the University of Leicester.
The trial is being led by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Patient Recruitment Centre (PRC): Leicester, at Leicester General Hospital.
John, 72, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes six years ago during a routine check-up when registering at a new GP practice in Market Harborough.
Dapagliflozin is widely used in routine clinical care.
It mostly works by reducing blood sugar levels and can help with weight loss.
The study is looking at whether dapagliflozin can also be used to improve overall physical health, measured by how easy it is to undertake activities of daily living, and whether combining it with a programme of exercise can make the benefits even greater.
John, who is halfway through the trial and has been doing two sessions of exercise a week at the General and one at home, said: “It has been a learning curve for me – I had never been in a gym before joining this trial.
“I am feeling a lot more energetic and my legs feel much stronger.
“I have enjoyed taking part and have lost 2kg so far.”
The study is taking place only in Leicester and is aiming to recruit 135 participants.
Professor Melanie Davies, principal investigator for the study, said: “One in 14 people live with diabetes in the UK.
“Research into new treatments is essential to ensure we can provide the best care possible.
“We are still looking for local people with type 2 diabetes to join this trial.
“I’m so pleased to hear how much
John has enjoyed taking part in this study so far.
“Our friendly team at Patient Recruitment Centre: Leicester has a wealth of experience in caring for volunteers during their research journey and take time to answer any questions participants may have.”
If you are interested in taking part or would like further information on the trial, please call 0116 258 8897 or email:
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