Old drugs, new hope: could a thalidomide combo free thalassemia patients from transfusions?

NCT ID NCT07673302

First seen Jun 29, 2026 · Last updated Jun 30, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a combination of two drugs, thalidomide and hydroxyurea, can safely boost fetal hemoglobin levels in people with beta thalassemia major. The goal is to improve overall hemoglobin levels and reduce the need for regular blood transfusions. The trial includes 240 participants of all ages and will track changes in hemoglobin, transfusion frequency, and quality of life over 12 months.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

thalidomide and hydroxyurea

What this could lead to

If successful, this combination could reduce or eliminate the need for regular blood transfusions in people with beta thalassemia.

What could go wrong

This is a single-arm, non-randomized study with no placebo group, so results may be less reliable. Thalidomide and hydroxyurea have known side effects, including birth defects and bone marrow suppression.

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.

beta-thalassemia major thalassemia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Riphah International University

    Rawalpindi, Punjab Province, Pakistan

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••