Can a diabetes drug rebuild lungs and muscle in COPD?

NCT ID NCT07747805

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: The Cleveland Clinic Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 05, 2026 · Last updated Aug 06, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot trial tests whether tirzepatide, a once-weekly injection used for diabetes and weight loss, can improve lung function and muscle health in overweight adults with COPD. About 30 participants will receive either tirzepatide or standard care for 12 months, with tests measuring breathing, muscle strength, and body composition. The goal is to see if this medication can reduce inflammation and help restore muscle, potentially offering a new way to manage COPD.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Tirzepatide, a once-weekly injectable medication used for weight management and diabetes, is being tested for its effects on lung function and muscle health in people with COPD.
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a new treatment strategy for COPD that not only helps with weight but also preserves muscle and improves breathing.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study, so results may not apply broadly. Tirzepatide can cause gastrointestinal side effects, and its effect on muscle in COPD is still uncertain.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease COPD, severe early onset Obesity obesity disorder Overweight Sarcopenia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

COPD OBESITY & OVERWEIGHT SARCOPENIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland, Ohio, 44195, United States

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