Omecamtiv Mecarbil for Heart Failure
(COMET-HF Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new drug, omecamtiv mecarbil (a cardiac myosin activator), to determine its effectiveness for people with heart failure, particularly those with a very weak heart pump (reduced ejection fraction). The study aims to assess whether the drug can reduce the likelihood of hospitalization, heart transplant, or life-threatening situations. Participants will receive either the drug or a placebo (a harmless pill with no active ingredient) and will be monitored for specific heart-related events. Suitable candidates for this trial include individuals who have managed heart failure for at least three months and experience serious symptoms, such as frequent hospital visits due to heart failure. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants a chance to contribute to a potentially groundbreaking treatment for heart failure.
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 taking digoxin and have atrial fibrillation. You must also be on standard heart failure treatments for at least 30 days before joining the study.
Is there any evidence suggesting that omecamtiv mecarbil is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that omecamtiv mecarbil is generally safe for people with heart failure. In studies, patients did not report major side effects from the drug. It reduced the time to the first heart failure event or death from heart-related issues, potentially lowering the risk of serious heart problems. As a Phase 3 trial, earlier trials found the treatment safe enough for testing in more people. This phase is crucial for confirming the drug's safety and effectiveness before approval for wider use.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for heart failure?
Omecamtiv Mecarbil is unique because it works by directly enhancing cardiac muscle contractility, which is different from most heart failure treatments that primarily focus on reducing blood pressure or managing fluid levels. This drug targets the heart muscle to improve its ability to pump blood more effectively, addressing the root cause of heart failure rather than just the symptoms. Researchers are excited about Omecamtiv Mecarbil because it offers a new mechanism of action that could improve outcomes for patients with heart failure, potentially leading to fewer hospitalizations and a better quality of life.
What evidence suggests that omecamtiv mecarbil might be an effective treatment for heart failure?
Studies have shown that omecamtiv mecarbil, which participants in this trial may receive, can improve heart function in patients with severe heart failure and a very low ejection fraction (the heart's ability to pump blood). Research indicates that this drug may reduce the risk of serious heart problems, such as hospitalization or death. Data from previous studies highlight its potential to enhance heart health for these patients. Additionally, findings suggest that omecamtiv mecarbil strengthens heart muscle contractions, aiding in more effective blood pumping. This treatment could offer a promising option for those facing severe heart failure.12567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Cytokinetics MD
Principal Investigator
Cytokinetics
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for people with chronic heart failure who have a severely reduced ejection fraction, which means their hearts are not pumping blood well. Participants should meet specific health criteria but the provided details on eligibility are incomplete.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either omecamtiv mecarbil or placebo twice daily until at least 850 participants experience a HF event or CV death
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Omecamtiv Mecarbil
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Cytokinetics
Lead Sponsor