Using empagliflozin to enhance heart function in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension

1/2 Empagliflozin to Improve Right Ventricular Function in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · CLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU · NIH-10947150

This study is looking at whether the diabetes medication empagliflozin can help improve heart function in people with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), a condition that can make it hard for the heart to pump blood and is linked to serious health risks.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCLEVELAND CLINIC LERNER COM-CWRU (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10947150 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of empagliflozin, a medication typically used for diabetes, on improving the function of the right ventricle in patients suffering from pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The study aims to address the high mortality rates associated with PAH by focusing on right ventricular dysfunction, which is a major contributor to patient deaths. Through a randomized, triple-masked approach, the research will assess whether empagliflozin can enhance heart function and overall outcomes in these patients. Participants will be monitored for changes in heart function and other key health indicators throughout the study.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension who may be experiencing right ventricular dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have pulmonary arterial hypertension or those with advanced heart failure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved heart function and reduced mortality rates for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that SGLT2 inhibitors like empagliflozin can improve heart function in other heart failure contexts, suggesting potential success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

CLEVELAND, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.