Which shock drug is safest? large ICU trial aims to find out

NCT ID NCT02118467

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests four different drugs (norepinephrine, epinephrine, phenylephrine, and vasopressin) in ICU patients with shock that doesn't improve with fluids. The goal is to see which drug causes fewer dangerous heart rhythm problems and improves survival. About 836 adults will take part, and the drugs are given through a central line.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

norepinephrine, epinephrine, phenylephrine, vasopressin

What this could lead to

If successful, this could identify which vasoactive drug is safest for ICU shock patients, potentially reducing dangerous heart rhythm issues and improving survival.

What could go wrong

This is a single-center trial, so results may not apply everywhere. The drugs are already in use, so no major breakthrough is expected—just better guidance for doctors.

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.

atrial fibrillation diabetes insipidus Shock Tachycardia

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: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

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

Locations

  • University of Chicago Medical Center

    RECRUITING

    Chicago, Illinois, 60637, United States

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

    Contact

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

    Contact