CLArithromycin for post-Stroke Pneumonia
This study is investigating if adding a widely used antibiotic called clarithromycin can improve the health of people who develop a serious chest infection, known as pneumonia, after having a stroke. About 1 in 10 stroke patients get pneumonia, which can make their recovery much harder. Researchers want to see if clarithromycin, which may also help reduce swelling in the lungs, can lead to better recovery, lower death rates, and a better quality of life. The study will compare patients receiving standard antibiotic care with those who get standard care plus clarithromycin, over approximately 90 days. It aims to recruit 1166 patients across 45 hospitals in the UK.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Having a stroke can be a very challenging experience, and unfortunately, some people develop further health problems during their recovery. One common and serious issue is a chest infection, called pneumonia, which affects about 1 in 10 stroke patients in the first week. This pneumonia can cause harmful swelling in the lungs and is linked to a slower recovery, a higher chance of complications, and sadly, higher death rates. People affected by stroke have said that finding ways to prevent and treat pneumonia is a top priority.
This study is looking into whether an antibiotic named clarithromycin could help people who get pneumonia after a stroke. While clarithromycin is already an antibiotic, it might also have extra benefits, like reducing the harmful swelling in the lungs. Currently, clarithromycin is only added to antibiotic treatment for about 1 in 10 stroke patients with pneumonia. However, previous research suggests it could be helpful.
The main goal of this study is to see if adding clarithromycin to the usual antibiotic treatment can improve recovery for stroke patients with pneumonia. Researchers will also look at whether it affects how long people live, their quality of life, how much time they spend at home, the burden on their carers, if they need to go back to hospital, if they have more strokes, and overall healthcare costs. Clarithromycin has been used for many years, so its side effects and how it interacts with other medicines are well known. The study will help decide if this treatment should become a standard part of NHS care.
Key takeaways
- This study investigates if adding clarithromycin helps stroke patients with pneumonia.
- Pneumonia after stroke is common and can make recovery difficult.
- Clarithromycin is a familiar antibiotic that might also reduce lung inflammation.
- The study involves comparing clarithromycin plus standard care with standard care alone.
- Participation lasts about 3 months, monitoring recovery and well-being.
- The results could change how stroke patients with pneumonia are treated in the NHS.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who have recently had a stroke (within the last two weeks) and have developed a new chest infection (pneumonia). You would need to be about to start, or have just started, antibiotics for this pneumonia, and these antibiotics shouldn’t already include clarithromycin.
There are certain situations where you wouldn't be able to join the study. For example, if you already need clarithromycin as your usual treatment, or if you have a confirmed viral chest infection like COVID-19 or flu. Also, if you’ve recently had antibiotic treatment for a chest infection, or have a specific gut infection called C.difficile.
Finally, if you have certain existing health conditions, such as severe liver problems, specific heart rhythm issues, certain muscle diseases or severe allergies to macrolide antibiotics, or are taking medicines that would react badly with clarithromycin, you wouldn't be able to take part.
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?
- Have you had a stroke in the last 14 days?
- Do you have a new chest infection (pneumonia) and are about to start antibiotics, or have just started?
- Are you NOT allergic to clarithromycin or similar antibiotics?
- Do you NOT have severe liver problems or certain serious heart conditions?
- Are you NOT already taking medicines that would react badly with clarithromycin?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you will be randomly placed into one of two groups. One group will receive the standard antibiotic treatment for pneumonia, while the other group will receive the standard treatment plus clarithromycin. You won't know which group you are in, and neither will your doctors, to keep the results fair.
The study will involve monitoring your health and recovery from both your stroke and the pneumonia. We'll be looking at things like your general recovery, quality of life, how long you spend at home, and whether you need to return to the hospital. We will also monitor for any side effects from the medication. Your participation in the study will last for about 90 days, or three months, after you agree to join.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- -Approximate-, England
Common questions
What is pneumonia after a stroke?
It's a serious chest infection that can sometimes happen when people are recovering from a stroke, making their recovery more difficult.
What is clarithromycin?
It's a common antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections, and it might also help reduce swelling.
How long will the study last for me?
Your involvement in the study will be for about 90 days (around three months) after you join.
Who is funding this research?
The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) in the UK.
Will I know if I'm getting the study drug?
No, you will be randomly assigned to a group, and neither you nor your doctors will know if you're getting clarithromycin or just standard care.
How to find out more
Craig J Smith
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.