Pulmonary Hypertension Research and Clinical Trials

Although there is still no cure for pulmonary hypertension (PH), the UPMC Comprehensive Pulmonary Hypertension Program actively participates in many clinical trials. These allow patients to obtain experimental therapies, as well as contribute to the advancement of knowledge and treatment of PH.

Without research, we would not have the 12 FDA-approved medical treatments for pulmonary arterial hypertension today.

During your visit, a doctor, nurse practitioner, or nurse may ask you if you're interested in hearing more about research opportunities. Whether or not you decide to participate is entirely up to you.

Pulmonary Hypertension and Heart Failure Research Registry

We are enrolling patients with a diagnosis of PH and heart failure in a research registry. Blood-work is collected at enrollment and medical records will be reviewed by researchers.

The registry also allows researchers to contact patients for possible participation in future research studies directed at the study of PH and/or HF diseases.

PH Clinical Trials

Acute Inhaled Nitrite Study

UPMC is seeking 30 patients, with a confirmed diagnosis of PH and who meet all inclusion/exclusion criteria, to enroll in the study which will entail a single right heart catheterization.

Participants are followed on a routine basis in the UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute or Comprehensive Lung Center.

Initial screening evaluations include:

• Physical exam
• Medical history
• Clinical laboratory assessments

People that meet all eligibility criteria will be compensated.

Chronic Inhaled Nitrite Studies

PAH Group I patients that have completed the acute inhaled nitrite study may be eligible for the 16-week chronic AIR001 study.

Participants will be randomized to one of three study dosage arms:

• 80mg daily
• 46mg four times a day
• 80mg four times a day

Participants must be:

• 18 years or older.
• Available for a screening visit to determine eligibility to participate.
• Able to make six visits to UPMC Presbyterian during a 16 week period.

At the end of the 16 weeks, you may be eligible to participate in the long term extension portion of this study.

If you qualify to participate, you will be compensated $50 for each completed study visit.