Ongoing, recruitingHuman Pharmacology (Phase I)- OtherInterventional

Albendazole pharmacokinetics in plasma, intra-cystic fluid and cystic tissue of human cystic and alveolar echinococcosis

This research is about a medicine called albendazole, which is used to treat a parasitic infection known as echinococcosis. This infection can cause cysts, or fluid-filled sacs, to grow inside the body. The study aims to understand exactly how albendazole travels through the body, how much of it reaches these cysts, and how it affects the cyst tissue. By learning more about how the drug works in different parts of the body, including the cysts themselves, doctors hope to find better ways to use albendazole to treat patients effectively and with fewer side effects. It's an early-stage study to gather important information about this existing medication.

At a glance

Status

Ongoing, recruiting

Phase

Human Pharmacology (Phase I)- Other

Sponsor

Medical University Of Vienna

Enrolment target

Start

29 Oct 2024

Human echinococcosis

What is this study about?

This research study is focused on a health problem called echinococcosis. This is a rare infection caused by a tiny parasite (a bit like a worm) that can create fluid-filled sacs, known as cysts, inside different organs in the body. If left untreated, these cysts can grow and cause serious health issues.

The main aim of this study is to understand more about a medicine called albendazole, which is an important treatment for echinococcosis. Specifically, the researchers want to see how albendazole moves through the body, how much of it gets into the blood, and, crucially, how much of it reaches the cysts themselves and the tissue around them. By knowing exactly where the drug goes and in what amounts, doctors can learn how best to use it to fight the infection effectively.

This is an early-stage study, often called 'Phase I Human Pharmacology.' This means it's about carefully studying how the drug behaves in the human body, rather than testing if it cures the disease. The information gathered will be vital for future decisions on how to improve treatments for people living with echinococcosis, helping them to get the right amount of medicine where it's needed most.

Key takeaways

Study examines how albendazole works in the body.
Specifically focuses on getting the drug into cysts.
Helps improve future treatments for echinococcosis.
Open to adults aged 18 and over, both men and women.
It's an early-stage study to gather important drug information.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults who are at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit, so older adults can also take part. The study is open to both men and women.

To be considered for this study, you must have been diagnosed with human echinococcosis. This is the main health condition the researchers are studying.

More specific details about your health, other medications you might be taking, or past treatments could affect whether you can join. These details will be discussed with you by the study team.

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.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you have a diagnosis of human echinococcosis?
Are you able to attend appointments as required by the study?
Are you comfortable with blood tests and potentially tissue samples (if having surgery)?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you will be given the medicine albendazole. The study team will then take several samples, such as blood samples, to see how the medicine moves through your body. They may also collect samples from the cysts or the tissue around them if you are having surgery for your condition as part of your usual care; this would allow them to see how much of the medicine gets into the infected areas.

The total amount of time you would be involved in the study would depend on the specific schedule of tests and follow-up appointments. Throughout your participation, the study team will monitor your health carefully. You would have regular contact with the doctors and nurses involved in the study.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in a study like this could help researchers understand better how albendazole works, which might lead to improved treatments for people with echinococcosis in the future. As with any medicine, there can be risks, and albendazole can have side effects, which the study team will explain fully. These might include feeling sick, headaches, or changes in liver function. Any procedures, like blood tests, also carry small risks, such as bruising. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

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Unverified
Austria

Common questions

What is echinococcosis?

It's an infection caused by a small parasite that forms cysts in different parts of the body.

What is albendazole?

It's a medicine used to treat parasitic infections, including echinococcosis.

Will I get better if I join this study?

This study is focused on understanding the medicine, not directly on treating your condition, but the information will help future treatments.

Do I have to pay to be in the study?

No, you will not have to pay to participate in the study.

How long will I be involved?

The exact duration will depend on the study schedule, but the team will inform you of the commitment involved.