Safety and Effect of HbF Inducers in Beta Thalassemia
Official title: Safety and Efficacy of Hemoglobin F Inducers in Patients With Beta Thalassemia: a Prospective 12 Months Study
Run by Riphah International University · NCT07673302 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether a combination of thalidomide and hydroxyurea can safely raise fetal hemoglobin and reduce transfusions in people with beta thalassemia.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 240 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Rawalpindi, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 20, 2026 |
| Main results expected | June 19, 2027 |
| Study ends | June 19, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | August 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07673302 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Individuals with confirmed beta thalassemia major of any age and both genders who can provide informed consent.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who do not respond to HbF inducers or who experience unacceptable toxicity may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study compares two groups of beta thalassemia patients. The experimental group receives low-dose thalidomide plus hydroxyurea daily for 12 months, with monitoring for safety and efficacy. Outcomes include hemoglobin levels, number of blood transfusions, and quality of life, with adverse events recorded at each follow-up. The control group receives standard care focused on transfusion requirements. Adults and children with confirmed beta thalassemia are eligible, with exclusions including pregnancy and certain comorbid conditions. The trial is led by Riphah International University in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients may need fewer transfusions and have improved quality of life due to higher hemoglobin levels.
How similar studies have gone: Previous approaches using HbF inducers have shown some promise, but this specific combination and setting are less established.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: * Confirmed diagnosis of Beta thalassemia Major (BTM) ascertained by Hemoglobin Electrophoresis or HPLC report performed pre-transfusion or genetic testing profile (comprising PCR or HBB gene sequencing) suggestive of β-thalassemia syndrome. * All ages and both genders will be included * Written informed consent Exclusion criteria: * Pregnancy or unwilling to follow contraception or planning conception (Enrolled female patients will be strictly advised to avoid pregnancy during the study period and until 6 months after thalidomide withdrawal. * Hemoglobinopathies other than beta thalassemia * History of neurological problems * Inability to regularly follow up
Where it's running
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Riphah International University
Rawalpindi, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Fariha Sardar, MBBS, FCPS — Riphah International University, Rwp
- Study coordinator: Fariha Sardar, MBBS, FCPS
- Email: doc.fariha@yahoo.com
- Phone: +923335517877
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.