NCT01799538 · National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Nebulized or Inhaled Albuterol for Lymphangioleiomyomatosis
What this study is about
Background: \- Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare type of lung disease that occurs almost exclusively in women. In LAM, muscle tissue grows in the lungs and starts to block the flow of air. It is a progressive disease, and in severe cases may require a lung transplant. One possible treatment to improve breathing in people with LAM is inhaled albuterol.
View original scientific description
Background: \- Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare type of lung disease that occurs almost exclusively in women. In LAM, muscle tissue grows in the lungs and starts to block the flow of air. It is a progressive disease, and in severe cases may require a lung transplant. One possible treatment to improve breathing in people with LAM is inhaled albuterol. Albuterol can be given in a metered dose inhaler (MDI) or with a nebulizer. Researchers want to compare these methods to see which method best improves lung function in women with LAM. Objectives: \- To see whether a nebulizer or MDI can better improve lung function in women with LAM. Eligibility: \- Women at least 18 years of age who have impaired lung function because of LAM. Design: * Participants will be screened with a physical exam and medical history. No lab tests will be needed for this study. * Participants will have a 3-day overnight stay at the National Institutes of Health. Those who are using long-acting inhalers will have to stop taking these drugs 1 week before the study. * Participants will receive either the nebulizer or two or four puffs of the inhaler. Four puffs of albuterol is a higher dose than is normally prescribed, and is being tested on this study. * Participants will have each treatment around the same time of day on each of the 3 days. Before and after taking the albuterol, participants will have lung function tests.
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
- Diagnosis of LAM either by tissue biopsy, evidence of lung and other organ involvement (renal angiomyolipomas, chylous effusions, lymphangioleiomyomas), high serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor D (VGEF-D)(1) or a diagnosis of TSC associated with cystic lung lesions.
- Age 18 years or over
- Evidence of airflow obstruction: FEV1/VC ratio \< fifth percentile of predicted normal and an FEV(1) \<80% predicted of the normal values.
Exclusion criteria
- Subjects will be excluded from the study if they meet one or more of the following criteria:
- History of hypersensitivity to albuterol or any of its components.
- Moderate or large pleural effusions (chest x-ray and or CT scan procedure completed under Protocol 95-H-0186)
- History of seizures other than during infancy
- Inability to withhold bronchodilators for 24 hours
- Cognitive Impairment
- Age less than 18 years
- Status-post lung or kidney transplantation
- Pregnant or breast feeding (women of childbearing potential will undergo a blood or urine pregnancy test under Protocol 95-H-0186).
- Treatment with monoaminoxidase inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants or Beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists or long acting anticholinergic bronchodilators who are unable to be discontinued for at least seven days before enrollment.
- Patients with URI, uncontrolled hyperthyroidism or severe gastro-esophageal reflux. Major systemic diseases (i.e., malignancy; myocardial infarction or unstable angina; type 1 diabetes, severe hypertension; liver cirrhosis).
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
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 Jun 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations