Effect of OPEP on Mucus Plugging and Airflow Obstruction in Patients with Moderate-to-severe Asthma
This study is investigating a new way to help adults in the UK who have asthma that's difficult to control, meaning their regular medications aren't fully managing their symptoms. Specifically, it's looking at whether using a device called Aerobika daily can help clear thick mucus from the airways. When mucus builds up, it can block the small airways in the lungs, making breathing harder and worsening asthma symptoms. Researchers want to see if using the Aerobika device can help get rid of this mucus blockage, which could lead to better breathing and improved asthma control. Participants will either use the Aerobika device or continue with their usual asthma medications.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Asthma can sometimes cause a build-up of sticky mucus in the airways. This mucus, often called a 'mucus plug', can block your breathing tubes and make your asthma symptoms worse, even if you're taking your regular asthma medicines. This study is looking into a device called Aerobika, which is designed to help clear these mucus plugs from your lungs.
The Aerobika device helps by creating vibrations and resistance as you breathe out, which helps loosen and move the mucus so it can be coughed up. We want to find out if using this device every day can make a real difference for adults with moderate-to-severe asthma, especially if they have signs of mucus blocking their airways. If it works, it could offer a new way to help people breathe more easily and get better control over their asthma.
This research is important because finding effective ways to manage mucus in asthma could lead to better outcomes for patients. By taking part, you could contribute to understanding new treatments that might help many people living with asthma in the future.
Key takeaways
- This study evaluates if a device called Aerobika can help clear mucus in adults with asthma.
- Targeted at individuals with moderate-to-severe asthma that isn't fully controlled.
- Participants will either use Aerobika daily or continue their usual medication for 16 weeks.
- Aims to improve breathing and asthma control by reducing mucus build-up.
- Your participation could help understand new potential treatments for asthma.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over who have been diagnosed with moderate-to-severe asthma for at least a year. Your asthma should still be causing you some problems even though you're taking your regular inhalers, and doctors will check if you have signs of mucus blocking your airways.
There are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you've recently had a bad chest infection that needed hospital treatment or strong medicines, or if you've had a severe asthma attack requiring steroid tablets or injections in the last six weeks. Also, if you have other serious lung conditions like emphysema (COPD) or cystic fibrosis, you wouldn't be able to take part.
Other things that might prevent you from joining include recent alcohol or drug misuse, being a current smoker or having a long history of heavy smoking, or having certain metal implants in your body (like a pacemaker) that would make an MRI scan unsafe.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Have you been diagnosed with asthma for at least 12 months?
- Do you still have asthma symptoms even with your current inhalers?
- Have you avoided serious chest infections needing strong medication in the last 4 weeks?
- Are you a non-smoker or an ex-smoker with a limited smoking history?
- Do you not have any metal implants in your body that would prevent an MRI scan?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, the study will last for a total of about 17 weeks. First, there's a screening period of up to one week where doctors will check if the study is right for you. This will involve some tests, including checking your asthma symptoms and looking for mucus in your lungs.
If you're eligible, you'll then be randomly put into one of two groups for 16 weeks. One group will be asked to use the Aerobika device daily along with their usual medications. The other group will continue with their usual asthma medications as normal. You won't know which group you're in until after the screening, and neither will the researchers. Throughout this time, you'll have regular check-ups to see how you're getting on, how your breathing is, and how well your asthma is controlled. The study aims to compare the two groups to see if the Aerobika device makes a difference.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- St. Joseph's Healthcare HamiltonVerified postcodeHamilton, Canada
- Western UniversityVerified postcodeLondon, Canada
Common questions
What is the Aerobika device?
The Aerobika is a small, handheld device that you breathe out into. It helps loosen mucus in your lungs to make it easier to cough up and breathe.
Will I have to stop my current asthma medication?
No, you will continue with your regular asthma medications throughout the study. The study looks at how the Aerobika device works in addition to your usual treatment.
How long will I be in the study?
The study will last about 17 weeks in total for each participant, including a short check-up period at the beginning.
What kind of tests will I have?
You'll have tests to check your breathing and asthma symptoms, and doctors will look for signs of mucus in your lungs.
Will I get paid for taking part?
The study information doesn't mention payment, but any expenses you might have (like travel) would typically be discussed by the research team.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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