Investigating how acetaminophen and vitamin C can help patients with sepsis recover from organ dysfunction

Mechanisms of organ dysfunction and recovery in the Acetaminophen and Ascorbate Trial in Sepsis

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11134404

This study is looking for people with sepsis to see if taking acetaminophen or vitamin C can help improve their lung, heart, and kidney function, especially for those who might also have COVID-19.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11134404 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on patients suffering from sepsis, a serious condition that can lead to acute organ dysfunction. It aims to evaluate the effectiveness of two potential treatments—acetaminophen and vitamin C—compared to a placebo in improving lung, cardiovascular, and kidney function in patients with sepsis. The study will involve 900 participants, including those affected by COVID-19, and will explore the underlying mechanisms of how these treatments may reduce organ injury caused by elevated levels of cell-free hemoglobin in the bloodstream. By understanding these mechanisms, the research hopes to pave the way for future therapies that can enhance recovery in critically ill patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults diagnosed with sepsis who are experiencing acute lung, cardiovascular, or kidney dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have sepsis or those with chronic organ dysfunction unrelated to acute conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery outcomes for patients with sepsis and related organ dysfunction.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches using acetaminophen and vitamin C in critically ill patients, suggesting potential for success in this trial.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions acute kidney injuryAcute Respiratory Distress SyndromeAdult Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.