Oxygen debate: lower levels may be safer for COPD patients

NCT ID NCT04223050

Terminated Disease control Sponsor: Esbjerg Hospital - University Hospital of Southern Denmark Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study aimed to find the best oxygen level for people hospitalized with a sudden worsening of COPD. It compared giving enough oxygen to reach 88-92% saturation versus over 94%. The trial was stopped early after only 23 people took part, so the results are not strong enough to change practice.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Oxygen gas
What this could lead to: If successful, this could clarify the safest oxygen level for COPD patients during a flare-up, potentially reducing deaths.
What could go wrong: The trial was terminated early with only 23 participants, so results are very limited and may not be reliable. It is unclear if either oxygen target is truly better.

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.

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

As listed by the trial registrant

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

CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE EXACERBATION COPD EXACERBATION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Holbæk Sygehus

Holbæk, 4300, Denmark
Odense University Hospital

Odense, 5000, Denmark
Sydvestjysk Sygehus

Esbjerg, 6700, Denmark
Sygehus Lillebælt, Kolding

Kolding, 6000, Denmark

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