Post-Treatment Monitoring

Currently, the treatment with teplizumab to prevent/slow progression from Stage 2 T1D to Stage 3 T1D is a one-time, 14-day therapy. Once you have received all fourteen doses of teplizumab, the next step is monitoring your ability to continue to make insulin. Unfortunately, this is not a cure but the average length of time someone can delay needing insulin after treatment is 2 years.

Monitoring will involve periodic evaluation of insulin secretion and glucose stability through blood tests that are performed every 3 to 6 months depending on the test¹. Many patients prefer to use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) periodically to see how they are doing. This can be favorable to finger-stick testing, but it is up to the patient preference. It is important that you continue to follow a healthy nutritional plan, remain active and maintain a healthy weight. These things do not necessarily alter the course of T1D but will be important to make sure you are in your best state of health and wellness.

It will be important that you and your caregiver/family recognize the signs and symptoms of high blood sugar (increased thirst, increased urination and in high amounts, increased hunger, unintentional weight loss). If you are experiencing these symptoms, and your blood sugar is elevated (most often above 200 regardless of how long ago you ate or drank something) you will need to go the emergency room as soon as possible. The sooner you recognize the symptoms and get medical help, the less likely you will have severe, life-threatening complication known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).¹

If you are not already meeting with a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, this would be a great time to start. They are highly skilled in helping people learn about diabetes and how to life a full, active and normal life with it.

A recent study that asked people and their caregivers about their experience with teplizumab found that more than 80% would recommend treatment to family members and others who are at risk for T1D.² The also said they would make the same decision to receive the treatment even after having gone through it.