Using ganciclovir to stop cytomegalovirus from reactivating in patients with severe respiratory failure and sepsis
Official title: 2/2 Ganciclovir to Prevent Reactivation of Cytomegalovirus in Patients with Acute Respiratory Failure and Sepsis
Funded at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center · NIH-10914214 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether the antiviral drug ganciclovir can help prevent a virus called cytomegalovirus (CMV) from coming back in adults who are seriously ill with respiratory failure from sepsis, and it’s for people who want to help improve treatment options for patients in critical condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $234,888 |
| NIH project number | 5U24HL147012-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-10914214 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing acute respiratory failure due to sepsis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not critically ill or do not have acute respiratory failure related to sepsis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of the antiviral drug ganciclovir to prevent the reactivation of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in adults suffering from acute respiratory failure due to sepsis. The study will involve a phase 3 randomized placebo-controlled trial, where participants will receive either ganciclovir or a placebo to assess its safety and effectiveness. The research aims to improve clinical outcomes for critically ill patients by addressing the complications associated with CMV reactivation. A dedicated Data Coordinating Center will manage the trial's data and statistical analysis to ensure robust results.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients by preventing CMV reactivation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using antiviral agents to manage viral reactivation in critically ill patients, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leisenring, Wendy M — Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
- Study coordinator: Leisenring, Wendy M
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Using Ganciclovir to Prevent Cytomegalovirus Reactivation in Patients with Severe Respiratory Issues
This study is looking at whether the antiviral medication ganciclovir can help prevent the reactivation of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in adults with severe respiratory failure caused by sepsis, to see if it can improve their recovery and reduce the time they spend on a ventilator and in the ICU.
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.