Darbepoetin for High Blood Pressure in Chronic Kidney Disease
(EPIC Trial)
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it requires that your high blood pressure is controlled with at least one antihypertensive medication. It seems likely you can continue your current blood pressure medication.
What data supports the effectiveness of the drug Darbepoetin for high blood pressure in chronic kidney disease?
Darbepoetin is effective in treating anemia (a condition where you don't have enough healthy red blood cells) in patients with chronic kidney disease, which can help improve overall health and quality of life. While it is not directly studied for high blood pressure, its ability to manage anemia might indirectly benefit patients with chronic kidney disease.12345
Is darbepoetin safe for humans?
How does the drug Darbepoetin differ from other treatments for high blood pressure in chronic kidney disease?
What is the purpose of this trial?
The investigators hypothesize that compared to untreated controls, erythropoietin (EPO) therapy in anemic patients with chronic kidney disease will raise diastolic blood pressure (BP). The magnitude of increase in diastolic BP at 12 weeks after treatment will be related to two factors. First, endothelial dysfunction and worsening of endothelial function from baseline to 4 weeks and second, the change of forearm blood flow in response to breathing oxygen and the change in this measure from baseline to 4 weeks. Study procedures include fasting blood draws, ambulatory blood pressure, urine collection, and forearm blood flow tests. The study hopes to accrue 160 subjects.
Research Team
Rajiv Agarwal, MD MBBS
Principal Investigator
Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Indianapolis, IN
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for anemic patients with stage 3 or 4 chronic kidney disease who have a hemoglobin level between 8 and 10 g/dL, haven't used erythropoiesis-stimulating agents recently, and have controlled high blood pressure treated with medication. It's not for those who've had recent heart issues or transfusions, or other conditions affecting red blood cell production.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive EPO therapy to assess its impact on diastolic blood pressure and endothelial function
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Extension
Participants in the delayed start group begin EPO therapy to compare outcomes with the immediate start group
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Darbepoetin
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor