CompletedPhase 1

Phase 1 Pilot Study of 4-MP to Treat Stargardt Macular Dystrophy

United States10 participantsStarted 2005-11

Plain-language summary

The purpose of this study is to investigate whether taking 4-methylpyrazole (4-MP, fomepizole, Antizol™) inhibits dark adaptation of the eye. In other words, we are testing if 4-MP slows the processing of vitamin A derivatives in the eye. By slowing down these processes, individuals with Stargardt disease may have better chances of saving their remaining vision. 4-MP has been shown to slow dark adaptation in animals, and is FDA approved for human use to treat individuals with methanol or ethylene glycol (antifreeze) poisoning by shutting down the body's ability to process alcohols. This medication has an excellent safety profile and has been reported to have no short-term or long-term side effects, as long as patients refrain from any alcohol while the medication is in the body. A single dose of 4-MP remains in the body for about 12 hours, and therefore, it may inhibit dark adaptation of your eyes for up to 12 hours. Studying the effects of 4-MP may lead to effective medical treatment to save Stargardt patients' vision, and may also have similar effects in other macular degenerative diseases.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years – 65 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * All nonpregnant, nonlactating adults with normal vision in both eyes Exclusion Criteria: * Previous ocular pathologies

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Dark adaptation inhibition measured 30 minutes after drug infusion using Goldman-Weeker adaptometer.

Timeframe: 6 weeks

Trial details

NCT IDNCT00346853

SponsorUniversity of Utah

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2006-05

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Macular Dystrophy, Corneal trials