FDA approves Tzield to delay type 1 diabetes in high-risk patients

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new drug called Tzield (teplizumab) to delay the onset of stage 3 type 1 diabetes. This medicine is for adults and children aged 1 year and older who have stage 2 type 1 diabetes. Stage 2 means they have certain antibodies and abnormal blood sugar levels but do not yet need insulin. Tzield is a CD3-directed antibody that works by targeting the immune system to slow the attack on insulin-producing cells. This approval offers a new option for people at high risk of developing insulin-dependent diabetes. Before starting treatment, doctors should confirm the diagnosis of stage 2 type 1 diabetes using an oral glucose tolerance test or another reliable method and ensure the condition is autoimmune in origin. While this is a significant step forward, it is important to understand that Tzield does not cure or prevent type 1 diabetes. It only delays the progression to stage 3, when insulin therapy becomes necessary. If you or a loved one has stage 2 type 1 diabetes, talk to your doctor about whether Tzield might be an appropriate option for you.