Researchers seek UC sufferers for clinical trial

Sufferers of a long-term bowel condition are being urged to consider taking part in a clinical research study being supported in Walsall which looks at an investigational medicine to resolve or improve symptoms.

The ATLAS-UC clinical research study is aimed at those with ulcerative colitis (UC), where the colon and rectum become inflamed and more severe symptoms can significantly impact people’s lives.

The main symptoms are recurring diarrhoea which may contain blood, mucus or pus, stomach pain, the need to poo frequently and extreme fatigue, loss of appetite and weight loss.

Dr Ismaeel Al-Talib, Consultant Gastroenterologist, is the Principal Investigator for the trial at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, working with colleagues from its Faculty of Research and Clinical Education (FORCE) Team.

He said: “This study is to test the safety of an investigative medicine for people with UC and some patients will have this – called MK-7240 – while others will have a placebo with no active ingredients.

“UC is a long-term condition and for some people it can have an effect on their everyday lives, limiting their activities and negatively affecting their quality of life.

“We want to explore potential new treatments that could make a life-changing difference to sufferers which is why we’re asking for participants from our Walsall communities.

“We’d hope to be able to collectively make a breakthrough to help people affected today, but if they do take part in the study they will definitely be playing a vital role in helping future generations with this condition.”

People may be eligible to take part in this study if they are 16-75 years old and have had UC for at least three months, and currently have moderately to severely active UC.

Potential participants also need to have experienced at least one of the following:

• have not responded well or stopped responding to at least one UC treatment
• have not tolerated their dose of corticosteroids (such as prednisone, budesonide or beclomethasone) being reduced
• have not been able to tolerate taking at least one UC treatment

There are additional requirements that will determine whether volunteers are eligible to be in this study and these will be discussed upon application.

For more information, including the possible risks and benefits of taking part, please contact Rachel Pearse, Research Nurse, on 01922 605718 or email walsall.research1@nhs.net.