Could an Iron-Removing pill slow ALS? new trial results are in
NCT ID NCT03293069
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This completed Phase 2/3 trial tested whether deferiprone, a drug that removes excess iron from the body, can slow the progression of ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). 372 people with early-stage ALS took either deferiprone or a placebo for 12 months. The study measured changes in physical function and survival. The goal was to see if reducing iron buildup in the brain could protect nerve cells and slow the disease.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
deferiprone (an iron-removing drug)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could slow the progression of ALS and extend survival by removing excess iron from the brain.
What could go wrong
This is a mid-stage trial, so results may not confirm benefit. ALS is complex, and iron chelation might not change the disease course. Side effects from deferiprone are possible.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Aphm Hopital La Timone
Marseille, France
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C H U Dupuytren Limoges
Limoges, France
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Chr Angers
Angers, France
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Chru Brest
Brest, France
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Chu Cote de Nacre - Caen
Caen, France
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Chu Toulouse
Toulouse, 31300, France
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Chu de Bordeaux - Talence
Talence, France
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Chu de Clermont-Ferrand
Clermont-Ferrand, France
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Chu de Nancy
Nancy, France
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Chu de Nice Hopital Pasteur
Nice, France
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Chu de Tours
Tours, France
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Hopital Pierre Wertheimer - Hcl - Bron
Bron, France
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Hopital de Hautepierre
Strasbourg, 67091, France
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Hu Pitie Salpetriere Aphp
Paris, 75013, France
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Hôpital Roger Salengro, CHU
Lille, 59000, France