Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Clinical trials sponsored by Vanderbilt University Medical Center, explained in plain language.
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Heart drug shows promise in taming lethal rhythms
Disease control CompletedThis study tested whether a drug called dantrolene can help control dangerous heart rhythms in people with structural heart disease. 68 participants received either dantrolene or a placebo during a heart procedure. The goal was to see if the drug could reduce the chance of trigge…
Phase: PHASE2, PHASE3 • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Disease control
Last updated May 01, 2026 18:42 UTC
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Blood thinner combo shows promise for leg artery disease
Disease control CompletedThis study looked at how the blood thinner rivaroxaban, taken with aspirin, affects blood clotting and artery function in people with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Sixty adults with PAD took low-dose rivaroxaban plus aspirin or a placebo plus aspirin. Researchers measured chan…
Phase: PHASE4 • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:51 UTC
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Rapid swab alert slashes unnecessary antibiotic use in ICU pneumonia patients
Disease control CompletedThis study tested whether telling doctors the results of a rapid nose swab test (PCR) could help them stop using a strong antibiotic called vancomycin sooner in adults with pneumonia in the intensive care unit. 277 patients took part. The goal was to see if the alert helped patie…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:49 UTC
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Can a natural compound ease arthritis inflammation?
Disease control CompletedThis study tested a supplement called 2-HOBA in 32 adults with rheumatoid arthritis to see if it is safe and reduces inflammation. Participants took either 2-HOBA or a placebo three times daily for 4 weeks. Researchers measured side effects and changes in blood markers of inflamm…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:48 UTC
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Can a simple app improve diabetes control? new study finds out.
Disease control CompletedThis study tested a tool called My Diabetes Care (MDC) that helps people with type 2 diabetes manage their condition through a patient portal. 458 adults aged 18-75 who take diabetes medication and have internet access took part. The goal was to see if using the tool improves blo…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:05 UTC
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New hope for rare, Life-Threatening skin conditions?
Disease control CompletedThis study tested whether the drug etanercept can help people with severe skin reactions called Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). These conditions cause the skin to blister and peel off. The trial compared etanercept to standard supportive care.…
Phase: PHASE3 • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:03 UTC
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Community health workers help african kids with epilepsy go Seizure-Free
Disease control CompletedThis study tested a new way to help children with epilepsy in Nigeria who often go without treatment. Specially trained community health workers provided care instead of doctors. Over 1,600 children took part, and the goal was to see if more kids could become seizure-free for at …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:02 UTC
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Personalized vs. One-Size-Fits-All: which prevents kidney stones better?
Disease control CompletedThis study tested two strategies to prevent kidney stones in adults who had at least two stones in the past five years. One group received a personalized prevention plan based on their urine tests, while the other got a general diet and medication plan. The goal was to see which …
Phase: PHASE4 • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:02 UTC
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New program helps new moms control blood pressure and reduce risks
Disease control CompletedThis study tested a program for women with high blood pressure after pregnancy. It included home blood pressure monitoring, an app to report readings, and a nurse to help manage care. The goal was to improve blood pressure control and reduce serious health problems. 343 women too…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Disease control
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:01 UTC
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Magnesium may shield against colon cancer in genetically prone individuals
Prevention CompletedThis study looked at whether taking magnesium supplements could reduce the risk of colorectal cancer in people with a specific genetic makeup. Researchers gave 250 participants either magnesium or a placebo for 12 weeks and measured changes in colon tissue markers linked to cance…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Prevention
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:56 UTC
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Digital nudge: study tests App-Style support to keep babies at healthy weight
Prevention CompletedThis study tested whether adding a digital goal-setting tool to standard well-child visits helps prevent obesity in babies. 900 parent-infant pairs were followed for 2 years. The intervention focused on healthy eating, activity, screen time, and sleep habits.
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Prevention
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:00 UTC
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Could a common supplement soothe Sjogren's dry eye?
Symptom relief CompletedThis study tested whether levocarnitine, a natural substance, can improve dry eye symptoms in people with Sjogren's syndrome. Fifteen adults took both levocarnitine and a placebo at different times to compare effects. The goal was to see if the supplement could reduce eye inflamm…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:59 UTC
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Live music brings calm to ICU patients, study finds
Symptom relief CompletedThis study looked at whether live music played in the ICU can help critically ill patients feel less pain, anxiety, and stress. 111 patients, their families, and hospital staff took part. Researchers measured changes in pain, anxiety, and relaxation using simple rating scales bef…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:56 UTC
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Could a blood pressure drug clear brain fog in the ICU?
Symptom relief CompletedThis study tested whether a medicine called guanfacine, given through an IV, could help critically ill patients in the ICU have fewer days of confusion or coma. 46 adults on breathing machines or with shock took part. The goal was to see if the drug could improve brain function a…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:51 UTC
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CT-Guided tuning boosts cochlear implant performance in kids
Symptom relief CompletedThis study tested a new way to program cochlear implants in children aged 4 to 12 who were born deaf. Instead of the standard method, doctors used CT scans to see exactly where the implant's electrodes sit inside the ear, then turned off any poorly placed ones. The goal was to im…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:49 UTC
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New combo therapy shows promise for lymphedema sufferers
Symptom relief CompletedThis study looked at whether adding a special suction therapy (graded negative pressure) to standard lymphedema care helps reduce arm swelling better than standard care alone. Eighteen women with arm swelling after cancer treatment took part. Researchers measured changes in fluid…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:49 UTC
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Brain zaps may sharpen minds of depressed seniors
Symptom relief CompletedThis study tested whether a gentle brain stimulation technique called tDCS could improve the effects of computer-based thinking exercises in older adults (60+) with a history of depression. Sixteen participants completed the trial, which measured changes in memory, planning, and …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:03 UTC
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Can a common Alzheimer's drug help lupus brain fog?
Symptom relief CompletedThis study tested whether memantine, a drug used for Alzheimer's, can safely improve thinking and memory problems in people with lupus. 111 adults with lupus and cognitive issues took either memantine or a placebo for 14 weeks. The goal was to see if the drug could reduce brain f…
Phase: PHASE2 • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:02 UTC
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Mindfulness after back surgery: a new way to heal?
Symptom relief CompletedThis pilot study tested whether a telehealth mindfulness program could help people recover after lumbar spine surgery. 67 adults who had back surgery were randomly assigned to either mindfulness training or health education sessions over 8 weeks. The main goal was to see if the p…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Symptom relief
Last updated Apr 26, 2026 20:00 UTC
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Texts vs. paper: which helps hungry families more?
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study tested whether sending text messages with food resource information to families of recently hospitalized children is more effective than giving them a paper handout. Over 600 caregivers participated. The goal was to see if the text message approach helped more families…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 16:00 UTC
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Which sedative is safer for emergency intubation? major trial reveals answers
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study looked at over 2,300 critically ill adults who needed an emergency breathing tube. Doctors wanted to find out if ketamine or etomidate is better at preventing serious problems like low blood pressure or heart failure. The goal was to see which drug leads to fewer death…
Phase: PHASE4 • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 16:00 UTC
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Which ventilator mode helps ICU patients breathe easier? a pilot study aims to find out
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study tested whether the way a breathing machine (ventilator) is set affects how quickly ICU patients with respiratory failure recover. Over 500 adults were randomly assigned to one of three common ventilator modes. The goal was to see if the mode changes how many days patie…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:59 UTC
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Low-Carb diet tested for better insulin use in type 1 diabetes
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study looked at whether eating fewer carbohydrates could help people with type 1 diabetes use insulin more effectively and improve blood vessel health. Fourteen adults on insulin pumps followed both a low-carb and a standard diet for one week each. The results showed no sign…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:59 UTC
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New study tests smarter ways for deaf kids to learn words
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study looked at whether using feedback and spacing out practice sessions can help children who are deaf or hard of hearing learn new words more efficiently. Thirteen children aged 5 to 9 took part. The goal was to find better teaching methods, not to treat or cure hearing lo…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:59 UTC
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AR goggles could help surgeons see kidney stones better
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study tested an augmented reality (AR) tool that tracks where surgeons look during kidney stone surgery training. The goal was to help less experienced surgeons learn to find all stone fragments, which can reduce repeat surgeries. Eight urology residents participated in a si…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:58 UTC
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Zapping the brain to understand attention in schizophrenia
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study looked at how targeted magnetic pulses (TMS) to a brain area involved in attention might change brain activity and nicotine cravings in people with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Fifteen smokers aged 18-65 took part. The goal was to learn how brain networks…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:57 UTC
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3000 kids join obesity gene hunt
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study created a registry of 3000 children who became obese before age 6. Researchers collected DNA samples to look for genetic causes of early obesity. The registry also helps connect interested families with future clinical trials. No treatment was tested; the goal was to g…
Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated May 01, 2026 15:56 UTC
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Brain zaps and scans aim to unlock catatonia mystery in autism
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study looked at whether brain over-activity is linked to catatonia (a condition where people cannot move or speak normally) in autistic individuals. Researchers used MRI scans to target a specific brain area with mild magnetic pulses. The goal was to measure brain signals an…
Phase: PHASE1 • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:52 UTC
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Salt sensitivity secrets revealed in small study
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study looked at how salt in the diet affects blood pressure in Black adults with overweight or obesity. Nineteen participants ate both high-salt and low-salt diets, and researchers measured their blood pressure and used imaging to see how their bodies handled salt. The goal …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:50 UTC
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Can a phone app boost memory in brain injury patients?
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study tested a mobile app called MEMI designed to help adults with chronic traumatic brain injury improve their memory. Researchers wanted to see if the app was easy to use and acceptable to participants. The study included 40 people and measured how often they used the app …
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:49 UTC
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New scope gadget aims to improve FAP exams
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study tested a device called NuView in 3 people with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). The goal was to see if doctors could get a better view of the papilla during a standard upper endoscopy. The device was used along with the usual exam to check if it improved visualiza…
Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:49 UTC
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Magnetic stomach test could replace X-Rays for gut disorders
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study tested a new, noninvasive magnetic technique to measure the stomach's natural electrical activity in 22 people, including those with diabetes, gastroparesis, or prior stomach surgery. The goal was to see if this method can tell the difference between normal and disease…
Phase: EARLY_PHASE1 • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 30, 2026 15:48 UTC
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Brain training after hospital confusion shows promise for seniors
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study tested whether starting cognitive training early in the hospital and continuing it at home for 12 weeks could improve thinking and memory in older adults (65+) who had delirium. 283 participants were randomly assigned to receive the training or usual care. The main goa…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:05 UTC
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Pop-Up alerts vs. gentle nudges: which gets more patients on statins?
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study tested two ways of reminding doctors to prescribe statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs) during patient visits. One method used pop-up alerts that interrupt the doctor's workflow, while the other used quieter reminders that doctors could choose to see. Over 3,300 patient…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 29, 2026 15:02 UTC
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Can zapping the brain curb cigarette cravings in schizophrenia?
Knowledge-focused CompletedThis study looked at whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called TMS can change brain activity and reduce nicotine cravings. It included 90 people who smoke, some with schizophrenia and some without. Researchers measured brain connections and cravings before and aft…
Phase: NA • Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center • Aim: Knowledge-focused
Last updated Apr 28, 2026 13:02 UTC