Could a lower dose of Clot-Buster be safer for lung infections?

NCT ID NCT05766124

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether a lower dose (2.5 mg) of a clot-busting drug called tPA works as well as the standard dose (10 mg) for treating pleural infections, which cause fluid buildup around the lungs. The drug is given through a chest tube along with another enzyme to help drain the infection. The goal is to see if the lower dose reduces bleeding risk while still being effective. The study involves 30 adults with unresolved pleural infections and will track their recovery for 3 months.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

tissue plasminogen activator (tPA, also known as Alteplase) with deoxyribonucleases (DNase)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could point toward a safer, equally effective dose of tPA for treating pleural infections, reducing bleeding complications.

What could go wrong

This is a small pilot study with only 30 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The lower dose might be less effective, and bleeding risks remain.

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.

pleural empyema

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: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Chinese University of Hong Kong

    RECRUITING

    Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong

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

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

  • Prince of Wales Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong

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

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