Motor Neurone Disease – Multicentre Therapeutic Trial

February, 2021

Randomised double-blind placebo-controlled Phase 3 trial of Triumeq in motor neurone disease

Dr Lauren Giles
$58,870

This is the first time an international multi-centre motor neurone disease therapeutic trial has been offered locally in Tasmania. Previously, patients with motor neurone disease would need to travel interstate to access clinical trials.

This therapeutic trial follows the positive Lighthouse 1 trial, which suggested Triumeq may have slowed progression of MND, although this trial was focused on safety rather than efficacy.

Given the findings of Lighthouse 1, there is optimism this trial may be positive and improve treatment options for people living with MND.

Allowing patients living with MND access to trials is one of the main sources of optimism in what is otherwise a disease with a bleak prognosis.

Being able to access trials closer to home will have tangible benefits to those living with MND, and their families and carers.

This will be the first multi-centre MND trial undertaken at the Launceston General Hospital and reflects the important benefits of the newly established neurology department at the hospital.

Through participation in this trial, our centre will establish links with the MND research community in Australia, with potential future research collaborations. 

This larger study will look at how effective the treatment is at slowing down progression in MND. The trial is being run at multiple international sites, and in Australia is being co-ordinated by Macquarie University.