UK gives teplizumab, delaying diabetes symptoms for years

The UK has begun administering teplizumab, a new drug that can delay the onset of type 1 diabetes symptoms for years, marking a significant shift in treatment. The drug is being given to patients before they develop symptoms. Teplizumab works by retraining the immune system to prevent it from attacking the pancreas, which produces insulin. The first UK adult patient, Hannah Robinson, was identified through pregnancy screening and is now receiving the treatment. This new approach aims to address the root cause of type 1 diabetes, potentially offering an insulin-free future. Early detection through blood tests is crucial for the drug's effectiveness, and research is underway to identify those at risk.