Testing a new oral treatment to improve walking ability in people with PAD

We’re testing a new oral treatment that may help people with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) walk longer distances with less pain. PAD affects blood flow to the legs and can make walking tiring or uncomfortable.

PAD is more than just leg pain. It can restrict walking, cause ulcers, and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.

• As of 2023-2025, about 113 to 236 million people (1 in 20 adults globally) live with PAD, mainly aged 40+.
• In Australia during 2021-22, approximately 54,500 hospitalisations with PAD were recorded.
• PAD is often underdiagnosed: up to half of people with the condition may have no apparent symptoms.
• Because PAD shares many risks with heart disease and stroke, people with PAD also face a significantly higher risk of major cardiovascular events.

The investigational treatment is a daily pill that fits easily into your routine and may help improve walking ability and overall well-being.

You may be eligible for the trial if you:

• are aged 18 or older
• have been diagnosed with PAD and have leg pain while walking
• can walk more than 150 meters without stopping
• can attend regular study visits at our Meadowbrook centre and follow instructions.

This trial will be conducted at our Meadowbrook clinic.

Eligible participants may be reimbursed up to $1,400 for their time and travel.

An independent Human Research Ethics Committee has reviewed this trial.

What's involved?

If you’re eligible, you’ll be randomly assigned to receive either investigational treatment (a daily pill) or a placebo. Throughout the study, your health and progress will be closely monitored.

This trial runs for up to 58 weeks, including a 4-week screening period, 52 weeks of treatment, and a 2-week safety follow-up. Participants will attend up to 14 scheduled visits, primarily in person at the clinic, with some check-ins potentially conducted by phone.

Procedures:

• Health checks (including physical exams, vital signs, and medical history updates)
• Blood and urine samples collection
• Administration of the study pill once a day and complete walking tests on a treadmill and over short distances
• Have heart health monitored with ECGs
• Completion of eDiary (a questionnaire to check your health and well-being)

All procedures will be explained clearly, and participants are welcome to ask questions at any time.

Where can I find more information?

More information can be requested by contacting the recruitment team on 07 5409 8640. Alternatively, the team will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have when they call.