NCT07447063 · University of California, San Francisco
The Impact of Dietary Salt on the Severity of Eczema
(iDOSE)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the feasibility of low-sodium diet to improve eczema severity.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the feasibility of low-sodium diet to improve eczema severity. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does a low-sodium diet improve eczema severity? * How does a low-sodium diet impact skin sodium concentration? * Is skin sodium concentration associated with eczema severity? Researchers will ask all participant to follow a low-sodium diet, then compare sodium tablets to a placebo (a look-alike substance that contains no drug) to specifically examine the impact of altering sodium intake.
Interventions
DRUG
Sodium chloride tablets
During the 5-week long sodium tablet intervention period, participants will receive five 1 g sodium chloride tablets each morning and four 1 g sodium chloride tablets each evening. Each sodium chloride tablet will contain 0.394 g or 17 mmol of sodium.
OTHER
Placebo Tablets
During the 5-week long placebo period, participants will receive five placebo tablets each morning and four placebo tablets each evening
Primary outcome measures
Eczema severity
Time frame: 6 months
Eczema severity will be measured by the Eczema Area Severity Index (EASI). The score range is 0-72 and higher scores indicate more severe eczema.
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
- Participants ages 18 years
- Willing and able to undergo non-contrast MRI.
Exclusion criteria
- Contraindications to MRI (such as cardiac pacemakers, claustrophobia, non-compatible intracranial vascular clips, IUDs, or other implants)
- A cardiac event in the past 6 months
- Impaired function of the liver or kidney (glomerular filtration rate \<60 mL/min)
- Medications that influence sodium excretion (e.g., diuretics or SGLT2 inhibitors)
- Antibiotic or immunomodulatory medications within the last month
- Contraindications to sodium tablets (Topical medications used exclusively on the head/neck or hands/feet (e.g., antifungal nail treatment, antidandruff shampoo, acne cleansers) are acceptable. Topical and systemic eczema treatments are acceptable if the participant has been on a stable dose for at least 2 months and still meets the severity entry criteria. Patients on dupilumab will not be excluded if they have been on dupilumab for at least two months and still meet the disease severity inclusion criteria.)
Where
- San Francisco, California
Collaborators
United States Department of Defense
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 Sep 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations