Protein power: simple drinks may boost recovery after injury

NCT ID NCT06521086

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Duke University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at whether giving older trauma patients extra protein drinks (up to 3 times a day in the hospital and for 4 weeks after discharge) helps them regain muscle and function better than standard nutrition. Sixty adults aged 45 and older who can eat by mouth will be randomly assigned to get the supplements or usual care. Researchers will measure muscle mass, body composition, and physical abilities like walking speed.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Fresubin KCAL Drinks (nutrition supplement)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could show that adding protein drinks during and after a hospital stay helps older trauma patients regain muscle and strength faster.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 60 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The supplement may not improve recovery more than standard care.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for CRITICAL ILLNESS are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Critical Illness injury

As listed by the trial registrant

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

CRITICAL ILLNESS TRAUMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Duke University Hospital
RECRUITING

Durham, North Carolina, 27710, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.