Effect of L-menthol on breathlessness in COPD patients

Effect of L-menthol on Breathlessness and Exercise Capacity in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: a Randomized

Phase 2 Interventional Region Skane · NCT05888597

This study is testing if inhaling L-menthol can help people with COPD feel less breathless.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorRegion Skane Academic / other
Locations1 site (Lund)
Trial IDNCT05888597 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the impact of inhaled L-menthol on alleviating breathlessness in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Chronic dyspnea is a significant symptom affecting patients' quality of life, and current treatments are insufficient. The study aims to determine the effectiveness of L-menthol, which may enhance airflow perception through olfactory stimulation, thereby reducing the sensation of breathlessness. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either L-menthol or a placebo during the trial.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with a confirmed diagnosis of COPD and significant breathlessness.

Not a fit: Patients with severe comorbid conditions or those requiring supplemental oxygen may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve the quality of life for COPD patients by reducing chronic breathlessness.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data from pilot studies suggest that inhaled L-menthol may effectively reduce dyspnea in COPD patients, indicating potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* The subject has given written consent to participate in the study
* Diagnosis of COPD confirmed by spirometry and a FEV1 \< 80% of predicted post bronchodilator at baseline
* age 18 years or older
* able to cycle
* able to understand and talk Swedish to participate in the study procedures, as judged by the Investigator.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Resting peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) \< 92%
* hospitalization or clinical instability during the last four weeks
* treatment with supplementary oxygen at rest or during exercise
* contraindication to exercise testing in accordance with clinical practice guidelines
* expected survival shorter than six months as judged by the Investigator
* medical conditions including congestive heart failure, acute coronary artery disease, neuromuscular diseases, severe psychiatric illness, and olfaction disorder.

Where this trial is running

Lund

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
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.