A multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of BP1.4979 in adult patients with essential tremor
Essential tremor is a common nervous system condition that causes involuntary shaking, most often in the hands and arms. This clinical trial is testing an experimental medicine called BP1.4979 to see whether it can safely help reduce these tremors. Adults aged 18 and older can take part. Participants will be placed into groups by chance. One group will take the new medicine, while the other will receive a dummy pill, known as a placebo. Neither the patients nor the doctors will know who gets which treatment until the trial ends. The treatment lasts for four weeks. Researchers will measure changes in daily movements, such as writing or holding a cup, using a standard tremor rating scale. The aim is to find out if the new medicine provides meaningful relief and is well tolerated.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Essential tremor is a condition that causes parts of the body, particularly the hands, to shake uncontrollably. For many people, this can make everyday tasks like drinking from a cup, buttoning a shirt, or writing quite difficult. Current treatments do not work well for everyone and can sometimes cause unwanted side effects. Because of this, doctors are searching for new, more effective options.
This trial is looking at an experimental drug known as BP1.4979. It is an early-stage study designed to explore how well the medicine works and check for any side effects. By testing the drug against a placebo (a harmless pill with no active medicine), researchers can be certain that any improvements or side effects are truly caused by the study drug.
Finding a new, safe treatment could improve daily life for many people living with this frustrating condition. By participating, patients help scientists understand whether this new medicine could become a valuable future treatment for essential tremor in the UK and worldwide.
Key takeaways
- Tests a new medicine, BP1.4979, for people with essential tremor.
- Compares the study drug against a dummy pill (placebo) over four weeks.
- Open to adults aged 18 and over.
- Aims to see if the treatment safely reduces shaking in daily tasks.
- Participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to adults aged 18 and over who have been diagnosed with essential tremor. Men and women can both take part.
While the basic criteria are straightforward, the study team will carry out further health checks. They need to ensure that your shaking is definitely caused by essential tremor and not by another condition, such as Parkinson's disease or certain regular medications.
You will also need to be well enough to attend clinic visits and follow the study instructions safely. Your doctor and the trial team will review your full medical history before you can join.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am at least 18 years old.
- I have been diagnosed with essential tremor.
- My tremor affects my hands, arms, or daily activities.
- I am willing to take a daily study tablet for four weeks.
- I can attend regular hospital or clinic appointments for check-ups.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you will first visit the clinic for screening tests to check if the trial is right for you. If accepted, you will be randomly assigned to take either the study drug (BP1.4979) or a matching placebo pill every day for four weeks.
During these four weeks, you will attend regular clinic appointments. At these visits, doctors will check your blood pressure, monitor your general health, and ask about any side effects. They will also ask you to perform simple physical tasks—like drawing shapes, drinking water, or holding your arms outstretched—to measure your tremor severity using an official scale.
In total, taking part will last around a month of active treatment, plus the initial screening and possibly a short follow-up check afterwards. The research team will support you throughout the process.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
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Common questions
What is a placebo?
A placebo is a dummy pill that looks just like the real medicine but contains no active ingredients. It helps researchers prove whether the study drug truly works.
Will I know if I am taking the real medicine?
No. This is a double-blind trial, meaning neither you nor your study doctors will know which pill you are taking until the entire study is finished.
Can I carry on taking my usual medicines?
You must discuss your current prescriptions with the trial team. Some medications might need to stay at a steady dose, while others might not be allowed during the trial.
Do I have to pay to take part?
No, clinical trials do not charge patients. The study medicine and all trial-related tests are provided free of charge, and travel expenses are often reimbursed.
What happens if I change my mind?
You can withdraw from the trial at any time. Doing so will not affect your relationship with your doctors or the standard of care you receive.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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