Evaluating the safety of stopping hydroxychloroquine in older lupus patients
Stopping Hydroxychloroquine In Elderly Lupus Disease (SHIELD)
This study is looking at whether older adults with lupus can safely stop taking hydroxychloroquine, a common medication for their condition, to help find the best way to manage lupus as they age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10908999 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates whether older patients with lupus can safely stop taking hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), a medication commonly used to manage their condition. The study will involve a Phase III clinical trial where participants will be randomly assigned to either continue or discontinue HCQ, allowing researchers to compare the effects on disease activity and potential retinal damage. By focusing on patients aged 60 and older, the research aims to provide evidence-based guidelines for managing lupus in the aging population, addressing the balance between medication benefits and risks. Participants will be monitored closely to assess any changes in their health and disease status.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 60 and older who have been diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus and are currently taking hydroxychloroquine.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 60 or those who do not currently take hydroxychloroquine may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer treatment protocols for elderly lupus patients, potentially reducing the risk of retinal damage while maintaining disease control.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited research specifically on stopping HCQ in elderly lupus patients, similar studies on medication management in chronic conditions have shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Izmirly, Peter — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Izmirly, Peter
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.