Investigating the use of hydrocortisone in treating pediatric septic shock
Official title: SHIPSS: Stress Hydrocortisone In Pediatric Septic Shock
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10906011 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how hydrocortisone can help children with septic shock feel better and recover faster, especially for those who might have trouble with their adrenal glands.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2019 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,680,001 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD096901-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906011 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-21 who are diagnosed with septic shock and may be at risk for adrenal insufficiency.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have septic shock or those who are not at risk for adrenal insufficiency may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the use of hydrocortisone as an adjunct therapy for children experiencing septic shock, a severe condition that can lead to high mortality rates. The study aims to rigorously evaluate the benefits and risks of hydrocortisone treatment in pediatric patients, particularly those at risk of adrenal insufficiency. By analyzing patient responses and outcomes, the research seeks to determine how hydrocortisone can improve recovery and quality of life for affected children. The methodology includes clinical assessments and monitoring of health-related quality of life over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment protocols for pediatric septic shock, potentially reducing mortality and enhancing recovery for children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that corticosteroids can improve hemodynamic status in sepsis, suggesting potential for success in this novel application for pediatric patients.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Agus, Michael Sd — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Agus, Michael Sd
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Pragmatic midodrine trial to reduce ICU vasopressor use in septic shock
A practical, patient-focused trial tests whether taking oral midodrine can lessen the need for IV vasopressors and shorten ICU stays for people with sepsis-related low blood pressure.
-
Personalized vasopressor therapy for septic shock
A clinician-scientist at Cleveland Clinic aims to tailor vasopressor treatment for septic shock patients using patient-specific factors.
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Angiotensin-based treatment strategy in septic shock
A clinical trial will compare giving Angiotensin II versus standard norepinephrine to support blood pressure in septic shock patients, aiming to improve outcomes.
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Percutaneous stellate ganglion stimulation to support blood pressure in septic shock
A small, portable neuromodulation device would be tested to help people with septic shock maintain blood pressure while doctors adjust medicines.
-
Macrophage metabolism and septic shock in humans
A study at Boston Children’s Hospital will explore how immune cells’ metabolism affects severe infection (septic shock) and whether targeting this metabolic pathway could help patients.
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Blood transfusions and organ failure in children with septic shock
This project looks at how a child’s circulation, immune status, and the type of red blood cells given affect recovery and organ problems during septic shock in young children.
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.