NCT06273072 · Johns Hopkins University
Metformin IN Asthma for Overweight and Obese Individuals (MINA)
What this study is about
This is a randomly assigned clinical trial of metformin among overweight or obese adults with not well-controlled asthma despite maintenance inhaler therapy.
View original scientific description
This is a randomized clinical trial of metformin among overweight or obese adults with not well-controlled asthma despite maintenance inhaler therapy.
Interventions
DRUG
Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets
titrated to 2000 mg once daily
DRUG
Visually identical placebo Metformin hydrochloride extended-release tablets
placebo
Primary outcome measures
Number of completed telemedicine visits
Time frame: Baseline to week 24
Number of participants completing at least 3 out of the 4 monitoring telemedicine visits
Adherence to study drug
Time frame: Baseline to week 24
Adherence will be measured by pill count
Retention rate
Time frame: Baseline to week 24
Investigators will collect data on the number of subjects screened, randomized, and complete the final in-person visit
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Physician-diagnosed asthma on maintenance therapy
- Not well-controlled asthma (ACT score \<20, or at least one asthma exacerbation requiring corticosteroids in the prior 12 months)
- Overweight or obesity: Body mass index ≥25kg/m2
- Adult: Age ≥18
Exclusion criteria
- Currently pregnant, expect to become pregnant in the next 6 months or are currently breastfeeding
- Major cardiovascular disease: heart failure, heart attack or stroke within the last 6 months
- Other chronic lung disease, inclusive of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary fibrosis
- Active smoking or former smoker with ≥20 pack-year smoking history
- Chronic kidney disease: estimated glomerular filtration rate ≤60 mL/min/1.73 m2
- Heavy alcohol use: in a typical week, 8 or more drinks for a woman or 15 or more drinks for a man
- Liver disease: elevation in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) or alanine aminotransferase (ALT) \> 2x the upper lim
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
- Houston, Texas
Collaborators
Baylor College of Medicine, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), Temple University
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jan 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations