Could an Iron-Removing pill protect the brain after a burst aneurysm?

NCT ID NCT03754725

Ongoing Disease control Sponsor: Duke University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 21, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests whether the drug deferiprone can safely lower iron levels in the brain after a bleeding aneurysm. About 66 adults who had a ruptured aneurysm will receive either deferiprone or a placebo for 14 days. Researchers will measure iron in spinal fluid, brain MRI scans, and memory tests to see if the drug helps prevent cognitive decline.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Deferiprone (oral pill)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a treatment that reduces brain damage and memory loss after a bleeding aneurysm.
What could go wrong: This is an early Phase 1/2a trial with only 66 people, so it is too small to prove effectiveness. The drug may not reduce iron enough or could have side effects.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

acquired aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage dementia southeast Asian ovalocytosis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

DEMENTIA SAH

Contacts and locations

Locations

Duke University Health System

Durham, North Carolina, 27710, United States
Univesity of Iowa Hospital and Clinics

Iowa City, Iowa, 52242, United States

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