Experimental Drug Study for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) Patients

Study Summary

The University of Chicago and Dr. Strek are conducting a research study to assess the effectiveness of a study drug for people who have IPF. People with IPF experience a combination of inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) of the lungs. The cause is currently unknown. This fibrosis can build up so that the lungs are unable to provide oxygen to the tissues in the body. As the air sacs of the lungs become more damaged and scarred, there is stiffening of the lung and this stiffening makes breathing difficult and causes you to feel breathless (dyspnea). This study will be done to test whether this drug can delay worsening of the disease.

The drug used in this study is experimental and not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

This study includes a screening and a treatment period. The screening period may last of up to four weeks, during which, we determine whether you are eligible to participate. If you qualify, you will be randomized (like a flip of a coin) to study drug or placebo (inactive drug). The treatment period may last up to three years. Visits are required every 84 days, and may include some of the following procedures: physical examinations, chest CT scans, electrocardiograms (ECG), and walking tests.

Benefits

There is no guarantee that you will receive personal benefit from participating in this study. It is unknown if you will have any improvement in your health from the study drug you receive. This study is a way for doctors to determine if the study drug is useful in delaying the progression of IPF.

Participation Details

Initial selection criteria include:

• Must be 40 to 80 years of age
• Must be willing to complete a Right Heart Catheterization
• Must be available for clinic visits for the duration of the study
• Must meet study medical criteria as evaluated by Dr. Strek

Study Director: Dr. Mary Strek
Department: Pulmonary

For more information contact:
smalecka@medicine.bsd.uchicago.edu
(773) 834-4053

IRB: #16652A