NCT04128189 · University of Colorado, Denver
Shingrix in Renal Transplant Recipients
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn how well the shingles vaccine (Shingrix) works and how safe it is in adults with kidney failure who are waiting for a kidney transplant, including those who later receive a transplant. The study also aims to find out whether giving an extra (third) dose of the vaccine after transplant improves protection.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn how well the shingles vaccine (Shingrix) works and how safe it is in adults with kidney failure who are waiting for a kidney transplant, including those who later receive a transplant. The study also aims to find out whether giving an extra (third) dose of the vaccine after transplant improves protection. The main questions it aims to answer are: How strong is the body's immune response to the vaccine at different time points (about 1 month, 2 years, and 3 years after vaccination) in people waiting for a kidney transplant? Does a third dose of the vaccine after transplant improve the immune response compared to not receiving a third dose? How long does protection from the vaccine last before and after transplant? How safe is the vaccine in this group, including whether it affects transplant-related immune markers? Researchers will compare people who receive a third dose of the vaccine after transplant to those who do not receive a third dose, as well as to results from similar groups studied in the past, to see if the extra dose improves immune protection. Participants will: Be screened to see if they can take part in the study Attend about 3 to 6 study visits over approximately 30 to 37 months Receive two doses of the shingles vaccine if they have not already been vaccinated, or complete study assessments if they were vaccinated before joining If they receive a kidney transplant during the study, be randomly assigned (by chance) to receive either a third dose of the vaccine or no additional dose Complete questionnaires, have physical exams if needed, and provide blood (and urine, if applicable) samples at study visits Take part in follow-up visits to check immune response and safety, with the option to allow samples to be stored for future research Shingrix is approved for adults aged 50 and older and for younger adults with weakened immune systems. However, giving a third dose after a kidney transplant is not standard practice and is being studied in this trial.
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 to 70 years Able and willing to provide written informed consent Currently on the waiting list for kidney transplantation at a participating institution, with anticipated transplantation occurring between \>3 and 24 months after the first dose of Shingrix Either: Eligible to receive Shingrix at study entry per CDC-recommended schedule, or Previously completed the Shingrix vaccination series within 3 to 24 months prior to study entry Female participants of non-childbearing potential (e.g., tubal ligation, hysterectomy, ovariectomy, or post-menopausal ≥12 months) Female participants of childbearing potential must: Use adequate contraception for at least 30 days prior to vaccination Have a negative pregnancy test on the day of each vaccination Agree to continue adequate contraception during the study and for 2 months after completing the vaccination series Be considered by the investigator likely to comply with study requirements
Exclusion criteria
- Active immunosuppressive or immunodeficient condition (e.g., malignancy, HIV infection) or receipt of immunosuppressive therapy within 3 months prior to planned vaccination that, in the investigator's opinion, may interfere with vaccine response History of herpes zoster (shingles) within the past 3 years Receipt of varicella vaccine within 3 years prior to study entry Known allergy to any component of the Shingrix vaccine Receipt of investigational drugs within 30 days prior to enrollment or planned use during the study Receipt of non-live vaccines within 2 weeks prior to any Shingrix dose or planned within 30 days after vaccination Receipt of live vaccines within 4 weeks prior to any Shingrix dose or planned within 30 days after vaccination Pregnant or breastfeeding Planned or prior multi-organ transplantation Residence or travel distance greater than 2 hours from the study site, which would interfere with study visits or timely processing of blood samples
Where
- Aurora, Colorado
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Houston, Texas
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 Apr 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations