VLX-1005 for Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to test the safety and effectiveness of a new treatment called VLX-1005 for people with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a condition where certain blood thinners cause a drop in platelet count, increasing the risk of dangerous blood clots. Participants will receive either VLX-1005 or a placebo (a harmless substance) alongside their usual care to assess its impact on platelet counts and the risk of clotting or bleeding events, such as strokes or clots in the lungs. Individuals who have recently been exposed to heparin and experienced a significant drop in platelet levels might be suitable candidates. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on evaluating VLX-1005's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering a chance to contribute to important 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 have been treated with argatroban or bivalirudin for 60 hours before joining. Also, you cannot use a non-heparin anti-coagulant for 60 hours after stopping heparin.
Is there any evidence suggesting that VLX-1005 is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that VLX-1005 is safe and well-tolerated in past studies. An earlier study with healthy participants reported no serious side effects. Participants took VLX-1005 without experiencing major negative reactions.
Although this earlier study involved healthy individuals, it provides some confidence about the safety of VLX-1005. The current study is in its second phase, indicating that initial testing has shown the treatment is generally safe for humans. However, further testing is needed to confirm its safety in people with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, a condition where a blood thinner causes low platelet counts.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for HIT?
Most treatments for Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia (HIT) work by inhibiting thrombin generation with anticoagulants like argatroban or bivalirudin. However, VLX-1005 stands out because it targets the immune response that triggers HIT, potentially offering a more direct approach to preventing platelet destruction. Researchers are excited about VLX-1005 because of its novel mechanism of action, which could provide a more effective and safer option for patients by addressing the root cause of the condition rather than just managing symptoms.
What evidence suggests that VLX-1005 might be an effective treatment for heparin induced thrombocytopenia?
In this trial, participants will receive either VLX-1005 or a placebo. Previous studies have shown that VLX-1005 holds promise for treating heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a condition where blood clots form unexpectedly. Research indicates that VLX-1005 blocks an enzyme involved in clot formation. Initial findings suggest that VLX-1005 may reduce the risk of complications like stroke and clots in the lungs. Researchers are also evaluating the treatment's ability to help platelets recover. These results offer hope that VLX-1005 could effectively manage HIT symptoms and complications.12467
Who Is on the Research Team?
John Alexander, MD
Principal Investigator
Duke Clinical Research Institute
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults over 18 with suspected heparin induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) can join this trial. They must have had recent heparin exposure, a specific blood test result indicating HIT, and a low platelet count. People with hepatitis B/C, HIV, severe kidney disease, substance abuse history or those unlikely to follow the study plan are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either VLX-1005 or placebo intravenously every 12 hours for 7 to 14 days, alongside standard anticoagulation therapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including platelet count recovery and incidence of major bleeding
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Placebo
- VLX-1005
VLX-1005 is already approved in European Union, United States for the following indications:
- Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)
- Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Veralox Therapeutics
Lead Sponsor