Multi-Drug Therapy for Traumatic Brain Injury
(APT-TBI-01 Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if specific drugs can improve recovery after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). It tests three medications—atorvastatin (a cholesterol-lowering drug), candesartan (a blood pressure medication), and minocycline (an antibiotic)—already approved for other uses, to see if they can speed up or enhance healing when used together. Individuals with a non-penetrating head injury, showing signs like a brain bleed or swelling on a CT scan, may be suitable candidates. Participants will receive either one of these drugs or a placebo (a pill with no active drug) to compare outcomes. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to contribute to significant medical advancements.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you are already taking one of the investigational drugs or similar ones. It's best to discuss your current medications with the trial team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Previous studies have shown that atorvastatin improves recovery in people with traumatic brain injury (TBI) without increasing the risk of brain swelling. It also reduces inflammation in the brain after an injury. Researchers have tested minocycline and found it safe even at higher doses than those used for treating infections, indicating it is likely well-tolerated. Candesartan has been deemed safe in other conditions and may improve blood flow in the brain after TBI. The FDA has approved all three drugs for other uses, suggesting they are generally safe when taken as directed.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for traumatic brain injury because they offer unique approaches compared to traditional options like surgery or rehabilitation therapies. Atorvastatin calcium is known for its cholesterol-lowering effects, but here it’s being explored for its potential to reduce inflammation in the brain. Minocycline hydrochloride, typically an antibiotic, might have neuroprotective properties that help shield brain tissue from further damage. Candesartan cilexetil, usually used for blood pressure control, could offer benefits by improving blood flow to the brain. These diverse mechanisms might provide new ways to manage and improve outcomes for patients with traumatic brain injury.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for traumatic brain injury?
This trial will evaluate multiple treatments for traumatic brain injury (TBI). Research has shown that atorvastatin calcium, one treatment in this trial, might help reduce inflammation in people with TBI. However, other studies did not find it significantly improved overall recovery. Minocycline hydrochloride, another treatment option, has shown promise in animal studies by helping the brain heal and reducing damage after TBI. Some research suggests it can shrink brain lesions and improve brain function. Candesartan cilexetil, also tested in this trial, might help by boosting blood flow in the brain and protecting the brain's barrier, which can be beneficial after TBI. While these drugs have shown potential in some studies, more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness for TBI recovery in humans.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Geoffrey Manley, MD PhD
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Francisco
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 18-65 with a recent non-penetrating head injury and specific CT scan findings. Participants must have certain protein levels in their blood, be able to undergo MRI scans without sedation, use birth control if applicable, and not have severe allergies or organ dysfunction. They should also not be on the study drugs already or enrolled in another interventional study.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive experimental drug treatment to improve recovery after TBI. Atorvastatin calcium, Minocycline hydrochloride, and Candesartan cilexetil are administered for 28 days.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, with changes in recovery measured using various biomarkers and cognitive assessments.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Atorvastatin Calcium
- Candesartan Cilexetil
- Minocycline Hydrochloride
- Placebo
Atorvastatin Calcium is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada, Japan, China, Switzerland for the following indications:
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Mixed dyslipidemia
- Prevention of cardiovascular disease
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Mixed dyslipidemia
- Prevention of cardiovascular disease
- Reduction of risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, angina, and revascularization procedures
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Mixed dyslipidemia
- Prevention of cardiovascular disease
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Mixed dyslipidemia
- Prevention of cardiovascular disease
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Mixed dyslipidemia
- Prevention of cardiovascular disease
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Mixed dyslipidemia
- Prevention of cardiovascular disease
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, San Francisco
Lead Sponsor
United States Department of Defense
Collaborator