Using Pirfenidone to Slow Down Kidney Disease Progression

Trial of Pirfenidone to Prevent Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease (TOP-CKD)

NIH-funded research Veterans Medical Research Fdn/san Diego · NIH-10700900

This study is looking at whether the medication Pirfenidone can help slow down kidney damage in people with chronic kidney disease by comparing it to a placebo, and it’s designed for anyone interested in new ways to protect their kidneys.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVeterans Medical Research Fdn/san Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Diego, United States)
Project IDNIH-10700900 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of Pirfenidone, a medication known for its anti-fibrotic properties, to prevent the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The study will involve a two-site, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 160 participants, where half will receive Pirfenidone and the other half a placebo. Researchers will assess the impact of Pirfenidone on kidney fibrosis using advanced imaging techniques, aiming to provide a non-invasive alternative to kidney biopsies. The goal is to determine if this treatment can effectively reduce kidney damage and improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease.

Not a fit: Patients with acute kidney injury or those who do not have chronic kidney disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could offer a new therapeutic option to slow the progression of chronic kidney disease, potentially improving quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that Pirfenidone is effective in treating other fibrotic conditions, suggesting potential success in this novel application for kidney disease.

Where this research is happening

San Diego, 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.
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.