A man checking his blood sugar

A cheap, century-old medication can improve life for people with type 1 diabetes, according to new research. A clinical trial in Australia found that type 2 diabetes drug metformin reduces insulin needs in type 1 diabetes.

The discovery opens doors for improved management of the condition, say scientists. Type 1 diabetes is a common condition - affecting around 450,000 people in the UK - in which the immune system incorrectly attacks the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas.

As a result, people with type 1 diabetes need to administer insulin for the rest of their lives to regulate blood sugar levels. In some people with type 1 diabetes, long-term insulin use can lead to insulin resistance, where the body’s cells no longer respond effectively to the drug

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