Researchers are conducting a study to test the feasibility and safety of inhaling hydrogen gas as a rescue therapy for patients experiencing cardiac arrest that requires extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR). The trial, known as HydrogenFAST, aims to evaluate whether 2% hydrogen gas can reduce the severity of neurological and renal injuries caused by ischemia and reperfusion during the resuscitation process.
The study is a phase 1 randomized trial involving patients with congenital heart disease, myocarditis, cardiac arrhythmia, or heart transplant rejection. Participants will be randomized to receive either standard care or standard care plus 2% hydrogen gas administered via a ventilator and ECMO membrane for 72 hours.
According to study documentation, the trial seeks to evaluate the incidence of serious adverse events and the feasibility of maintaining hydrogen administration for at least 90% of the first 72 hours post-arrest. The research follows preclinical data showing that hydrogen inhalation may reduce injury in models of ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, and cardiac arrest.
The study involves recruitment at multiple sites, including Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. The estimated completion date for the study is August 2027.
