Topical Insulin Drops for the Treatment of Neurotrophic Keratopathy. (NCT05321251) | Clinical Trial Compass
WithdrawnPhase 2/3
Topical Insulin Drops for the Treatment of Neurotrophic Keratopathy.
Stopped: Study never commenced due to logistical issues.
Canada0Started 2022-06-01
Plain-language summary
Many diseases can affect corneal nerves. Corneas that lack normal sensation are considered neurotrophic. Neurotrophic corneas are predisposed to persistent epithelial defects, recurrent erosions, and corneal ulcers. These can lead to a variety of complications, from subjective pain, discomfort, and blurry vision, to corneal perforation and endophthalmitis. Neurotrophic corneas and the persistent epithelial defects associated with them can be very difficult to treat. Non-invasive measures include topical drops (artificial tears, antibiotics, or steroids), bandage contact lens, and punctal plugs. More invasive surgical treatments include membrane grafts, tarsorrhaphy, and keratoplasty. Despite these treatments, many neurotrophic corneas still do not heal. This study aims to test the efficacy of topical insulin in the treatment of neurotrophic keratopathy.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Diagnosis of neurotrophic keratitis with persistent epithelial defect that has been refractory to conventional treatments for at least 2 weeks
* 18 years or older
* Able to provide informed consent
* Failed other conventional treatments for neurotrophic keratitis
* Understanding and accepting of use of topical insulin alone
Exclusion Criteria:
* Less than 18 years old
* Pregnant or breastfeeding women
* Unable to provide informed consent
* Unable to comply with tests/follow-up
* Lid function abnormalities (e.g., lagophthalmos, entropion, ectropion, or abnormal orbicularis function from cranial nerve 7 palsy or Bell's palsy)
* Patients who require ongoing topical treatment (e.g. topical ganciclovir)
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Time to re-epithelialization of neurotrophic ulcer