Could a common arthritis drug prevent preterm birth?

NCT ID NCT05703425

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This study tests whether sulfasalazine, a drug used for arthritis, can lower a stress hormone called CRH and prevent recurrent preterm birth. Fifty pregnant women with a history of preterm birth will receive either sulfasalazine or no drug between 24 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. Researchers will track CRH levels and how many deliver early.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
sulfasalazine
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a new way to prevent preterm birth in women who have had one before.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-phase trial with only 50 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The drug may not lower CRH levels or reduce preterm birth rates.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Premature Birth

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School

    RECRUITING

    New Brunswick, New Jersey, 08901, United States

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