A Study of Oral L-citrulline in Sickle Cell Disease

Summary

Sickle cell disease is a genetic red blood cell disorder that can result in blocking of the small blood vessels from sickle shaped red blood cells. This causes pain, the main feature of sickle cell disease. Also, low amounts of nitric oxide can occur in sickle cell disease, a substance important for widening the blood vessel wall and therefore preventing blockage of the small blood vessels. Citrulline is a drug that is known to increase nitric oxide. This is a phase I study of citrulline given by mouth to evaluate the safety, tolerability and appropriate dosing of this medication for individuals with sickle cell disease.

Timeline

Start

2015-12

Primary completion

2017-12-31

Completion

2017-12-31

Publications

• Background Schwedhelm E, Maas R, Freese R, Jung D, Lukacs Z, Jambrecina A, Spickler W, Schulze F, Boger RH. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of oral L-citrulline and L-arginine: impact on nitric oxide metabolism. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2008 Jan;65(1):51-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2125.2007.02990.x. Epub 2007 Jul 27.
• Background Moinard C, Nicolis I, Neveux N, Darquy S, Benazeth S, Cynober L. Dose-ranging effects of citrulline administration on plasma amino acids and hormonal patterns in healthy subjects: the Citrudose pharmacokinetic study. Br J Nutr. 2008 Apr;99(4):855-62. doi: 10.1017/S0007114507841110. Epub 2007 Oct 22.

Drugs

Indications