Optimizing caffeine dosage for newborns with brain injury

Dose Optimization of Caffeine in Neonates With Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy

PHASE1 · University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill · NCT06448780

This study is testing different doses of caffeine to see which one is safest and most effective for newborns with brain injury who are being treated with cooling therapy.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment16 (estimated)
AgesN/A to 24 Hours
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of North Carolina, Chapel Hill (other)
Locations2 sites (Chapel Hill, North Carolina and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06448780 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This phase Ib study investigates the safety and optimal dosing of caffeine citrate in neonates diagnosed with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) who are undergoing therapeutic hypothermia. Building on previous pharmacokinetic research, this open-label trial aims to validate a population pharmacokinetic model for caffeine in this vulnerable population. The study will administer two different doses of caffeine citrate to determine the most effective and safe dosage for these infants.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are neonates with HIE who are at least 36 weeks gestational age and receiving therapeutic hypothermia.

Not a fit: Patients with major congenital anomalies or those receiving multiple anti-epileptic drugs may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve treatment outcomes for neonates with HIE by optimizing caffeine dosing.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have explored caffeine use in similar contexts, but this specific dose optimization approach is novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Documented informed consent from parent or guardian
* ≥ 36 weeks gestational age at birth
* Receiving therapeutic hypothermia for a diagnosis of HIE
* Intravenous (IV) access
* Postnatal age \< 24 hours

Exclusion Criteria:

* Receiving \> 1 anti-epileptic drug for seizures
* Sustained (\>4 hours) heart rate \> 180 beats per minute
* Known major congenital anomaly

Where this trial is running

Chapel Hill, North Carolina and 1 other locations

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy, caffeine citrate

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.