What is teplizumab (Tzield)?
Teplizumab (brand name Tzield) is a medication that can delay the onset of type 1 diabetes in people at high risk of developing the condition.
How does teplizumab work?
In type 1 diabetes, the immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas called beta cells. This reduces insulin production over time, causing blood sugar levels to rise. Eventually, the patient must take supplemental insulin for life.
Teplizumab works by modifying immune cells called T cells, which slows the destruction of beta cells. This allows the pancreas to continue making insulin longer, delaying the need for insulin therapy. One study showed that teplizumab postponed the need for supplemental insulin by two years on average.