NCT06246396 · University of Florida
Antihypertensive Mechanisms of Minocycline in Resistant Hypertension
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn about the mechanisms by which minocycline effect blood pressure in individuals with treatment-resistant hypertension.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn about the mechanisms by which minocycline effect blood pressure in individuals with treatment-resistant hypertension. The main questions it aims to answer are: * To what extent does minocycline lower blood pressure? * Are such blood pressure effects mediated through changes in gut microbiota, gut leakiness, systemic inflammation, neuroinflammation, or some combination of these? Participants will be randomly assigned to treatment with minocycline or placebo, treated daily for 3 months, to evaluate these questions.
Interventions
DRUG
Minocycline Hydrochloride
Minocycline Hydrochloride 100 mg twice daily
DRUG
Placebo
Placebo
Primary outcome measures
24-h systolic blood pressure
Time frame: 3 months
Change in mean 24-hour ambulatory systolic blood pressure
Gut microbiome
Time frame: 3 months
Change in butyrate-producing gene abundance
Gut inflammation and leakiness
Time frame: 3 months
Change in gut-homing inflammatory T-helper cells
Neuroinflammation
Time frame: 3 months
Change in \[18F\]FEPPA radiotracer uptake on PET/MR imaging
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
- Age ≥18 years
- Uncontrolled TRH, defined as uncontrolled blood pressure (mean 24-hour ambulatory systolic BP ≥125 mm Hg or diastolic BP ≥80 mm Hg) while being adherent to a stable (no changes in ≥14 days prior) antihypertensive regimen of 3 or more drugs, including an adequately dosed diuretic or unable to tolerate a diuretic.
- The participant agrees to have all study procedures performed
Exclusion criteria
- Known hypersensitivity or contraindication to minocycline or other tetracyclines
- Recent (≤3 months prior), ongoing, or expected use of oral antibiotics
- Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of \<45mL/min/1.73m2, using the MDRD equation
- Known secondary hypertension
- History of hypertensive crisis, defined as any in-patient hospitalizations for hypertensive crisis/emergency within the past year
- History of orthostatic hypotension, defined as two or more episode(s) of orthostatic hypotension (reduction of SBP of \>20 mm Hg or DBP of \>10 mm Hg within 3 minutes of standing) in the past year
- History of myocardial infarction, unstable angina, syncope, or cerebrovascular accident in prior 6 months
- Evidence of alcoholism or drug abuse
- Severe comorbid conditions (i.e., neoplasms or HIV positive or AIDS)
- Current pregnancy or anticipated pregnancy during the study.
Where
- Gainesville, Florida
Collaborators
Emory University, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
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 Mar 6, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations