Simple zinc pill may shield kids with sickle cell from deadly infections

NCT ID NCT06561061

Completed Prevention Sponsor: Indiana University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether daily zinc supplements can lower the number of serious infections in young children with sickle cell anemia. Researchers in Uganda gave 100 children either zinc or a placebo for a period and tracked infections. The goal is to find an affordable, easy-to-use way to protect these children from life-threatening illnesses.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: zinc sulfate
What this could lead to: If zinc proves effective, it could offer a simple, low-cost way to reduce dangerous infections in children with sickle cell disease.
What could go wrong: This is a completed Phase 2/3 trial with only 100 children in Uganda, so results may not apply to other populations. Zinc may not reduce infections enough to change practice.

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.

sickle cell disease

As listed by the trial registrant

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

SICKLE CELL DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Jinja Hospital

Jinja, Uganda

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