RecruitingPHASE4INTERVENTIONAL

Evaluation of Treatments for Dry or Productive Cough

A study is looking into two different throat sprays to see how well they work and if they are safe for people with a cough caused by a viral infection like a cold. These sprays are already available to buy. The study wants to find out if they help with cough symptoms and improve how people feel in their daily lives. We are looking for adults aged 18 to 65 who have had a cough for less than three weeks. Participants will use one of the sprays for seven days and share information about their cough and any side effects. This research aims to understand the real-world experience of using these sprays.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

PHASE4

Sponsor

University Hospital, Clermont-Ferrand

Enrolment target

Start

19 Jan 2026

Estimated completion

31 Mar 2027

Cough

What is this study about?

Imagine you have a cough from a common cold or a similar virus. You want to feel better, right? This study is looking at two types of throat sprays that are already on the market and available to buy. We want to understand what it's like for people to use them in everyday life.

The main goal is to check how safe these sprays are and if people can use them without too many problems. We also want to see if they help improve cough symptoms and make a real difference to how people feel generally, like their sleep or daily activities. The study isn't testing new medicines, but rather looking at how existing products work for people.

This research is important because it helps us gather information directly from people using the sprays. This 'real-world' information adds to what we already know about these products, helping health professionals and individuals make informed choices about managing coughs.

Key takeaways

Tests two existing throat sprays for coughs.
Focuses on coughs from viral illnesses.
Aimed at adults aged 18-65.
Involves a 7-day spray use and daily diary.
Checks safety, impact on cough, and quality of life.
Participation lasts about 8 days with two clinic visits.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged between 18 and 65 years old. You need to have a cough that started recently (less than three weeks ago) and is likely caused by a virus, like a cold or a sore throat. If you have pharyngitis or tonsillitis, your doctor will check to make sure it's not a bacterial infection.

There are certain reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you are allergic to anything in the sprays, have a very severe cough, or have other lung conditions like asthma or COPD. We also can't include you if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you regularly smoke.

Additionally, if you are taking certain medications that could affect the study's results, or if you have had recent surgery on your ears, nose, or throat, you won't be able to take part. The research team will go through all these details with you to make sure the study is right for you.

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 between 18 and 65 years old?
Do you have a cough that started in the last three weeks, likely from a cold or virus?
Do you NOT have asthma, COPD, or another long-term lung problem?
Are you NOT pregnant or breastfeeding?
Are you NOT taking certain medications that could interfere, like some cough medicines or antibiotics?
Are you able to attend appointments in Clermont-Ferrand, France?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll be given one of the two throat sprays to use for seven days. You'll be randomly assigned to one type of spray, meaning it's like a coin toss – you won't get to choose which one. During these seven days, you'll need to fill out an electronic diary every day. This diary will ask about your cough symptoms, how you're feeling, any side effects you notice, and if the spray device works properly.

You'll also have two visits to the study clinic. The first visit will be at the start of the study (Day 1) to check if you're suitable and to get things set up. The second visit will be at the end of the seven-day treatment period (Day 8). At these visits, doctors will examine you and ask about your cough and general health. You'll also complete questionnaires about how your cough affects your quality of life, both at the start and end of the study. The total time you'll be actively involved in the study is about eight days.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could offer some benefits; you might find that the throat spray helps relieve your cough symptoms. However, there's no guarantee that it will help everyone, and the main aim is to gather information, not to provide a new treatment. As with any product, there's a small risk of side effects or an allergic reaction to the spray. The study team will monitor you closely for any issues, and you can report anything unusual in your daily diary. Remember, you can choose to leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

CHU de Clermont-ferrand
Verified postcode
Clermont-Ferrand, France· Recruiting

Common questions

What kind of cough is this study for?

This study is for coughs caused by common viruses, like those from a cold or a sore throat, that have lasted less than three weeks.

Will I get to choose which spray I use?

No, you will be randomly assigned to one of the two sprays, like flipping a coin.

How long will I be in the study?

You'll use the spray for 7 days, and your total involvement, including visits, will be about 8 days.

What do I need to do every day?

You'll need to use an electronic diary to record your cough symptoms and any side effects.

Where is the study taking place?

The study is being run at Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital in France.

How to find out more

Lise Laclautre

promo_interne_drci@chu-clermontferrand.fr +33473754963 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.