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

NCT ID NCT05766124

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Chinese University of Hong Kong Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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.

pleural empyema

As listed by the trial registrant

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

PLEURAL INFECTION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Chinese University of Hong Kong
RECRUITING

Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Prince of Wales Hospital
RECRUITING

Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong

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