PKN605 for Atrial Fibrillation
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new oral medication, PKN605, to determine if it can reduce the frequency of atrial fibrillation (AF), an irregular and often rapid heart rate. The trial compares two different doses of PKN605 against a placebo to assess its effectiveness and safety. It seeks participants who have experienced at least two episodes of AF, with one occurring within the past year, and who are already on stroke prevention treatment. Participants should not have a pacemaker or certain heart conditions, nor should they be on specific heart rhythm medications. For those whose daily life is affected by AF, this trial offers an opportunity to explore a new treatment option. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
You will need to stop using certain antiarrhythmic medications (drugs that help control irregular heartbeats) before joining the trial. Specifically, Vaughan Williams class I or III anti-arrhythmic drugs must be stopped at least 7 days before the screening, and amiodarone must be stopped at least 6 weeks before the screening.
Is there any evidence suggesting that PKN605 is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that PKN605 appears safe for people with atrial fibrillation. In earlier studies, participants reported no serious side effects, suggesting the treatment is generally well-tolerated. Although more research is needed to fully understand its safety, current evidence suggests that PKN605 could offer a new treatment option for atrial fibrillation.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for atrial fibrillation?
Researchers are excited about PKN605 for atrial fibrillation because it offers a potentially new way to manage this common heart condition. Unlike typical treatments such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, or anticoagulants, PKN605 is an oral formulation that could provide a more targeted approach. The drug is being tested in both lower and higher doses to see how effective it can be at different levels. This could mean more personalized treatment options for patients, potentially leading to better outcomes with fewer side effects.
What evidence suggests that PKN605 might be an effective treatment for atrial fibrillation?
Research has shown that PKN605 might reduce the duration of atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat). Earlier studies examined its effect on the length of atrial fibrillation, which is crucial for assessing its efficacy. Initial results suggested that this treatment could lessen the impact of atrial fibrillation and help maintain a steady heart rhythm. However, more data is needed to confirm these effects. This trial tests PKN605 at different doses to evaluate its effectiveness and safety at various levels.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Novartis Pharmaceuticals
Principal Investigator
Novartis Pharmaceuticals
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with atrial fibrillation who have a moderate to high stroke risk based on their CHA2DS2-VASc score, stable heart failure symptoms, and at least two episodes of AF in the past year. They must not be severely overweight or underweight and should have had an elevated NT-proBNP level recently.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either PKN605 or placebo for 24 weeks, with monthly clinic visits and atrial fibrillation monitoring using ECG devices
Follow-up
Participants have a final safety follow-up visit approximately one month after the end of the treatment phase
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- PKN605
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Novartis Pharmaceuticals
Lead Sponsor
Dr. Vas Narasimhan
Novartis Pharmaceuticals
Chief Executive Officer since 2018
MD from Harvard Medical School
Dr. Shreeram Aradhye
Novartis Pharmaceuticals
Chief Medical Officer since 2021
MD