Ongoing Clinical Trials for Chondrocalcinosis
There are currently 2 clinical trials investigating new treatments for chondrocalcinosis, also known as calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease (CPPD). These trials are testing different medications that work by blocking specific proteins involved in joint inflammation. One trial is being conducted in Italy, while the other is taking place in France.
Clinical trial locations
- France
- Italy
Study on Baricitinib for Patients with Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition Disease (CPPD) Using Methotrexate Sodium and Drug Combination
This trial is investigating how Baricitinib affects joint inflammation in people with calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease. The condition causes calcium crystals to build up in joints, leading to pain and swelling similar to other forms of arthritis.
Who can participate: The trial is looking for people aged 55 years or older who have been diagnosed with CPPD according to specific medical criteria. Participants must be able to undergo a tissue sample procedure from the knee or wrist joint. The study focuses on two types of CPPD patients: those with inflammation in small joints of the hands and wrists similar to rheumatoid arthritis, or those with repeated swelling in large joints that hasn’t improved with steroid injections. Women must be in menopause, and men must use effective birth control methods during the study.
Who cannot participate: Pregnant or breastfeeding women are excluded from the study. People with severe allergies to the study medication, other serious health conditions that could interfere with the trial, or those currently taking medications that might affect study results cannot join. Anyone who participated in another clinical trial within the last 30 days, has a history of drug or alcohol abuse in the past year, or cannot follow the study procedures is not eligible.
What the trial involves: The main goal is to evaluate how Baricitinib reduces inflammation in the joint lining over 12 weeks. Participants will take Baricitinib as oral tablets along with other medications including Methotrexate Sodium, Colchicine, and others that help manage inflammation and pain. Some participants may receive a placebo for comparison. The study lasts 24 weeks, during which doctors will monitor changes in joint inflammation and other health indicators.
Investigational drug: Baricitinib is a JAK inhibitor, meaning it blocks certain enzymes called Janus kinases that play a role in the inflammatory process. By blocking these enzymes, the medication aims to reduce inflammation in the joints.
Study of tocilizumab compared to placebo in patients with chronic chondrocalcinosis who did not respond to standard treatments
This trial is testing whether tocilizumab can help patients whose condition has not improved with standard treatments. The medication is given through an intravenous infusion directly into a vein.
Who can participate: Adults aged 18 years or older with confirmed calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposit disease can join if they have ongoing joint pain lasting more than 3 months or at least 2 episodes of joint inflammation per month. Participants must have pain in more than 3 joints with pain intensity greater than 40 on a 100-point scale. They must have already tried and failed to improve with standard treatments including colchicine, NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and anakinra. Women who can become pregnant must use effective birth control during the study and for 3 months afterward.
Who cannot participate: People younger than 18 or older than 75 years cannot participate. The trial excludes those with active or chronic infections including tuberculosis, autoimmune diseases, or severe allergic reactions to medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with significant kidney or liver disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or active cancer within the past 5 years are not eligible. Those who had major surgery within 8 weeks, used other investigational drugs within 30 days, have severe heart conditions, blood disorders, weakened immune systems, severe mental health conditions, or alcohol or drug abuse within the past 6 months are also excluded.
What the trial involves: The study compares tocilizumab to placebo in patients with chronic inflammatory joint pain. Participants receive either tocilizumab or a sodium chloride solution through an infusion once a month for three months. Doctors monitor pain levels and joint inflammation throughout the study. The total observation period is six months with regular check-ups to assess treatment effectiveness and monitor for side effects.
Investigational drug: Tocilizumab is a biological medication that blocks a protein called interleukin-6 (IL-6), which is involved in causing inflammation. This monoclonal antibody belongs to the class of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and works by targeting the IL-6 receptor to reduce inflammation and prevent joint damage.
Summary
The two ongoing clinical trials for chondrocalcinosis are taking place in different European countries, with one in Italy and one in France. Both trials are exploring new treatment options for patients who experience persistent joint pain and inflammation due to calcium crystal deposits in their joints.
The trials are testing two different approaches to reducing inflammation. The Italian study focuses on Baricitinib, which blocks JAK enzymes involved in inflammation, while the French trial investigates tocilizumab, which targets the IL-6 protein. Notably, the French trial specifically recruits patients who have not responded to standard treatments, suggesting it may offer hope for those with more resistant forms of the condition.
Both studies require participants to undergo regular monitoring and assessment of their symptoms over several months. The trials differ in their participant age requirements, with the Italian study focusing on people aged 55 and older, while the French study accepts adults aged 18 to 75 years. These studies represent important steps in understanding whether these anti-inflammatory medications can effectively manage the symptoms of this painful joint condition.
