Could a common supplement slow ALS? duke launches pilot trial
NCT ID NCT07589764
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This early-stage trial tests whether a daily supplement called HMB (beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate) is safe and can lower certain blood markers linked to ALS. One hundred adults with ALS will take 3 grams of HMB daily. Researchers will track changes in blood markers and functional abilities over time. The goal is to see if HMB might slow disease progression.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) supplement
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a simple supplement to slow ALS progression and improve quality of life.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very early Phase 1 pilot trial with only 100 people, no placebo group, and it measures a biomarker (IGFBP7) that may not directly translate to clinical benefit. The supplement may not slow the disease.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Duke University Medical Center
Durham, North Carolina, 27705, United States
Contact
Contact Email: •••••@•••••
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Temple University
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19122, United States
Contact Email: •••••@•••••
Contact Email: •••••@•••••
Contact
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