The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is looking for people with chronic lung conditions to take part in a new clinical study.
The study will test treatments for people with COPD or bronchiectasis and offers participants the opportunity to try treatment at home.
People with lung conditions such as COPD or bronchiectasis have a reduced ability to produce nitric oxide, a naturally occurring gas produced by healthy lungs which boosts the immune system and helps to fight viruses and infections, including Covid-19.
The aim of the study is to find out whether nitric oxide helps to reduce the severity of a chest infection in people with lung conditions.
Participants will initially be invited to attend an appointment with an NHS nurse or doctor at the National Institute for Health Research Patient Recruitment Centre: Newcastle, which is part of Newcastle Hospitals and based in Fenham.
During the study, if participants develop a chest infection they will be sent a simple handheld device called a nebuliser, which contains nitric oxide that is inhaled for seven days.
Healthier lungs
Professor Tony De Soyza, Chief Investigator of the study, Honorary Consultant Respiratory Physician at Newcastle Hospitals, and Professor of Pulmonary Medicine at Newcastle University, said:
“Chest infections are a serious concern for our patients with COPD or bronchiectasis. Covid-19 has added to our worries and presents a major threat to these at-risk patients. We are delighted that RESP301 might provide an effective treatment for these patients”.
Taking part
Clinical staff will contact patients on a daily basis while they take the treatment. Transport to and from the centre can be provided for the initial appointment which will take around two to three hours.
To take part, patients should not be currently living on their own.
If you have COPD and are interested in taking part or would like to find out more, contact the NIHR PRC: Newcastle team.
T: 0191 2823172
Further information:
