Overview
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) in children involves autoimmune destruction of pancreatic ß- cells, leading to insulin deficiency. Verapamil is an L-type calcium channel blocker that has been used for decades to treat hypertension and certain cardiac conditions. Recent research has revealed its potential as a ß- cell-protective agent. Hence this study will evaluate the effect of once-daily oral verapamil on pancreatic ß- cell reserve , glycemic metrics and daily insulin requirements in children and adolescents with T1D.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Children and adolescents aged 10-18 years.
- Newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes mellitus (within 6 weeks of diagnosis, defined as the day of starting insulin therapy).
- Presence of at least two positive islet autoantibody (anti glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies, anti- tyrosine phosphataseantibodies ,anti- zinc transporter 8 protein antibodies , or anti-insulin antibodies).
- Ability to comply with study procedures.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Previous diagnosis of other endocrine disorders or autoimmune disorder (e.g. autoimmune thyroiditis).
- Current or planned use of medications that might affect glucose metabolism (e.g., corticosteroids, immunomodulators).
- Known allergy or intolerance to verapamil.
- Cardiac conduction abnormalities, heart block, or significant cardiac disease.
- Systolic or diastolic blood pressure \< 5th percentile for age and gender.
- Severe hepatic or renal impairment.
- Participation in another interventional clinical trial.
- Inability to follow the protocol for any reason as determined by the investigator.
- Elevated liver enzymes \>1.5 × upper limit of normal at screening
