Summary:
Preventing Early Renal Loss in Diabetes (PERL)
Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are on the rise. So is related kidney disease. The Preventing Early Renal Loss in Diabetes (PERL) Study group, with research centers across North America and in Europe, is studying a medication called allopurinol to see if it can prevent the loss of kidney function that occurs in about 1 in 5 people with Type 1 diabetes.
Allopurinol is a safe and cost effective drug that has been used for many years to decrease high blood uric acid and treat gout. There is substantial evidence to suggest that allopurinol might also be useful to decrease the risk of kidney disease in people with diabetes.
We need 480 people to participate in a research study that could improve the lives and health of 40 million people around the world with diabetes who will be at risk for kidney disease over the next few decades. At Washington University School of Medicine we hope to enroll about 100 participants.
Five study visits will be conducted at Washington University School of Medicine. The remaining twelve visits may be conducted at Washington University School of Medicine, local lab, or your physician’s office. Your PERL study coordinator will help you to make the arrangements for these visits.
We ask you to commit to these things: Visit Washington University School of Medicine five times over a three year period, undergo blood testing every 4 months at Washington University School, a local lab or your physician’s office; take four allopurinol pills or inactive pills that look like allopurinol once a day during this period.
All study-related procedures and tests are at no charge. Monetary compensation is available. Study related travel expenses will be reimbursed.
Study Procedures include: Taking study medication, Blood tests, Urine tests, Kidney function tests, Vital signs, Physical exams, ECG
Washington University Researchers in collaboration with other research centers in the United States is conducting this study.
Qualified Participants Must:
• Have been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes
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Be between 18 and 70 years of age
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Have had diabetes for at least 8 years
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Have been told by a physician you have the early signs of kidney problems related to your diabetes