Can extra doses of an old drug reverse liver scarring?
NCT ID NCT07754617
First seen Aug 10, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 3 times
Summary
This trial tests whether giving praziquantel three times a year, instead of the standard once a year, can improve liver fibrosis (scarring) caused by schistosomiasis in people aged 15-40 in Uganda. Participants with liver fibrosis will be randomly assigned to one of two treatment schedules and followed for three years with annual ultrasounds and blood tests. The study also looks for a blood test that could predict who will get worse before it happens.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Praziquantel, an approved drug for schistosomiasis, given either once or three times per year.
- What this could lead to
- If more frequent treatment works, it could offer a simple, low-cost way to slow or reverse liver scarring and prevent dangerous bleeding in millions at risk.
- What could go wrong
- The trial is still testing the idea, and results may show no added benefit from extra doses. Praziquantel is generally safe but can cause mild side effects like nausea or dizziness.
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
Locations
-
Uganda Virus Research Institute
Entebbe, Uganda
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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