Could a pill stop snake venom? new trial tests oral drugs against antivenom

NCT ID NCT07500233

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

Summary

This phase 2 trial tests two oral drugs, DMPS and marimastat, to see if they can reduce the harmful effects of snake venom. 504 adults in Brazil and Ghana who have been bitten by a snake will receive either the drug, a placebo, or standard antivenom. The goal is to find a treatment that can be given quickly in rural clinics, potentially saving lives and preventing disability.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
DMPS (unithiol) and marimastat, taken orally
What this could lead to
If successful, these oral drugs could be given sooner than antivenom, potentially reducing disability and death from snakebites, especially in remote areas.
What could go wrong
This is an early phase 2 trial with only 504 participants. The drugs may not work as hoped, could have side effects, or may not be as effective as antivenom.

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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.

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