Hydrogen Therapy for Cardiac Arrest
(HydrogenFAST Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The purpose of this project is to test the feasibility and safety of inhaled hydrogen gas (H2) administration as a rescue therapy during cardiac arrest requiring extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR, i.e. mechanical circulatory support). Under exemption from informed consent, patients undergoing refractory cardiac arrest in the cardiac ICU at a participating center will be randomized to standard therapy with or without the administration of 2% hydrogen in gases administered via the ventilator and ECMO membrane for 72 hours.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
How does hydrogen therapy differ from other treatments for cardiac arrest?
Hydrogen therapy is unique because it involves inhaling hydrogen gas, which acts as an antioxidant to protect cells and organs from damage after cardiac arrest. This approach is different from traditional treatments like therapeutic hypothermia, as it directly targets oxidative stress and inflammation.12345
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Hydrogen Therapy for Cardiac Arrest?
Research shows that inhaling hydrogen gas can improve brain and heart function in animal models of cardiac arrest, and it is safe and feasible for human patients. Additionally, hydrogen-rich saline has been found to protect organs and improve survival and brain function in rats after cardiac arrest.45678
Who Is on the Research Team?
John N Kheir, MD
Principal Investigator
Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for patients from birth to 18 years, and occasionally older, who are experiencing a tough-to-treat cardiac arrest and are being treated with ECPR in the ICU at Boston Children's or Texas Children's Hospital. They may have heart conditions like congenital disease, myocarditis, arrhythmia, or transplant rejection.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive usual care plus 2% H2 gas for 72 hours or usual care alone
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Long-term follow-up
Participants' ICU and hospital length of stay, survival to hospital discharge, and functional status are assessed
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Hydrogen
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Boston Children's Hospital
Lead Sponsor
Baylor College of Medicine
Collaborator