Patients at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) are taking part in a major international clinical trial investigating whether a new weight-loss tablet could help people with a debilitating vascular condition walk more easily and improve their quality of life.
The ATTAIN-PAD study is the first commercial clinical trial to be delivered by UHNM's vascular team and is evaluating orforglipron, an oral weight-loss medication, as a potential treatment for people living with peripheral artery disease (PAD).
PAD occurs when arteries supplying blood to the legs become narrowed or blocked, restricting blood flow and often causing pain, cramping and mobility problems. The condition can significantly affect day-to-day life, making even short walks challenging for many patients.
The Phase 3 international study is examining whether orforglipron can help improve walking ability and reduce symptoms by addressing factors linked to the progression of the condition.
The trial marks another significant milestone for vascular research at UHNM, which has expanded its involvement in national and international studies in recent years, giving more patients access to cutting-edge treatments and research opportunities.
Professor Arun Pherwani, Consultant Vascular Surgeon and Principal Investigator for the trial at UHNM, said:
“PAD causes narrowing or blockages in the arteries supplying the legs which can make walking painful and have a significant impact on patients’ lives.
“Over the last two years we’ve made huge progress in vascular research at UHNM taking part in more national and international studies and giving more patients the opportunity to get involved.
“None of this is possible without the wider UHNM research team working with our clinical teams, they’re brilliant and deserve a huge amount of credit.”
The study also represents an important step forward for the Trust's research programme, highlighting growing collaboration between clinical teams and research professionals to bring innovative treatments to patients closer to home.
Minnie Gellamucho, Lead Research Practitioner at UHNM, said:
“This is our first commercial trial for vascular and the teamwork, dedication and commitment from everyone involved has been fantastic.
“You can't manufacture that passion and it’s brilliant for our patients and for us as a team.”
Patients participating in the trial have also highlighted the importance of supporting NHS research and helping develop treatments that could benefit future generations.
As demand for innovative treatments continues to grow, studies such as ATTAIN-PAD underline the increasingly important role NHS organisations are playing in bringing global research programmes to local patients. If successful, the trial could offer a new approach to improving mobility and quality of life for people living with peripheral artery disease.
Image credit: iStock
