Can a mitochondrial drug restore sight in friedreich ataxia?

NCT ID NCT05168774

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tested the drug elamipretide in 20 people with Friedreich ataxia to see if it could safely improve vision loss. Participants received either a low or high dose, and researchers measured changes in eyesight. The study is complete, but results are not yet available.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

elamipretide

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a treatment for vision loss in Friedreich ataxia.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early-phase pilot study with only 20 participants. The drug may not improve vision, and results may not apply to other symptoms of Friedreich ataxia.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

Friedreich ataxia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Children's Hospital of Philadelphia - Neurology

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States