CardiolRx for Myocarditis
(ARCHER Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores CardiolRx, a cannabidiol-based treatment, to determine its effectiveness for myocarditis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the heart muscle. Participants will receive either CardiolRx or a placebo (a substance with no active medicine) for 12 weeks to compare effects. Researchers will use heart imaging and other tests to assess the treatment's impact on heart health and inflammation. The trial seeks individuals recently diagnosed with myocarditis who experience symptoms like chest pain or difficulty breathing. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to contribute to important medical advancements.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
You may need to stop certain medications to join the trial. Specifically, you cannot participate if you are taking strong inducers of CYP3A4 or CYP2C19, digoxin, or type 1 or 3 antiarrhythmics. If you are on any of these, you would need to stop them before joining.
Is there any evidence suggesting that CardiolRx is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that CardiolRx, a treatment made from cannabidiol, has been safe and well-tolerated in past studies. In trials for conditions like recurrent pericarditis, patients experienced few side effects, indicating general tolerability. CardiolRx does not contain THC, the component of cannabis that causes a high, which may help reduce side effects. While the results are promising, discussing any concerns with a healthcare provider before joining a clinical trial is important.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Researchers are excited about CardiolRx for myocarditis because it leverages cannabidiol, a compound known for its potential anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective properties. Unlike standard treatments that mainly focus on managing symptoms with immunosuppressive drugs or steroids, CardiolRx targets the underlying inflammation directly. This new approach could not only improve heart function more effectively but also reduce the side effects associated with long-term use of current therapies.
What evidence suggests that CardiolRx might be an effective treatment for myocarditis?
Research shows that CardiolRx might help treat myocarditis. Earlier studies found that CardiolRx improved heart function and reduced inflammation. This treatment also helped prevent the heart muscle from thickening and scarring. Patients in these studies tolerated CardiolRx well, with no major safety issues reported. In this trial, participants will receive either CardiolRx or a placebo. These findings suggest that CardiolRx could aid heart healing and reduce inflammation in people with myocarditis.12567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Dennis McNamara, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Pittsburgh
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults diagnosed with acute myocarditis, confirmed by clinical symptoms and CMR or biopsy, can join this trial. Participants must agree to use contraception if necessary. Excluded are those with severe heart issues, recent heart procedures, drug/alcohol abuse, pregnant/breastfeeding women, certain other medical conditions or treatments.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive CardiolRx or placebo for 12 weeks with dose escalation from 2.5 mg/kg to 10 mg/kg b.i.d.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- CardiolRx
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Cardiol Therapeutics Inc.
Lead Sponsor