NCT07218029 · Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
A Clinical Study of Sotatercept (MK-7962) in People With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (MK-7962-038)
(SOTERIA)
What this study is about
Researchers are looking for more ways to treat PAH. In PAH, the blood vessels in the lungs become thick and narrow, which makes it harder for blood to flow. This causes high blood pressure in the lungs and overworks the heart. PAH can make it hard to breathe and be active. Some standard (usual) treatments for PAH can treat symptoms of PAH but do not stop PAH from getting worse.
View original scientific description
Researchers are looking for more ways to treat PAH. In PAH, the blood vessels in the lungs become thick and narrow, which makes it harder for blood to flow. This causes high blood pressure in the lungs and overworks the heart. PAH can make it hard to breathe and be active. Some standard (usual) treatments for PAH can treat symptoms of PAH but do not stop PAH from getting worse. Sotatercept is a study medicine designed to treat PAH. It is a targeted therapy, which is a treatment that works on certain proteins that play a role in causing PAH. This is a long-term follow-up (LTFU) study. People who took part in certain other studies testing sotatercept for PAH may be able to join this study. The goal of this study is to learn about the long-term safety of sotatercept and if people tolerate it when taken with standard PAH treatment over a longer period of time.
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
- The main inclusion criteria include but are not limited to the following:
- Has completed their current respective PAH sotatercept clinical study and its requirements, and must not have discontinued early
- Is willing to adhere to the study visit schedule, and understands and will comply with all protocol requirements
- Must have the ability to understand and provide documented informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- The main exclusion criteria include but are not limited to the following:
- Did not participate in a sotatercept PAH parent study
- Missed more than the equivalent of 4 consecutive doses between the end of parent study and the start of this study.
- Presence of an ongoing serious adverse event that occurred during a PAH sotatercept clinical study that is assessed to be possibly or probably related to sotatercept
- Is a female who is pregnant or breastfeeding
- Is or has an immediate family member who is investigational site or Sponsor staff directly involved with this study
- Is currently enrolled in another investigational product study other than a sotatercept study
- Is incapacitated
Where
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Scottsdale, Arizona
- Tucson, Arizona
- La Jolla, California
- Orange, California
- Sacramento, California
- San Francisco, California
- Santa Barbara, California
- Torrance, California
- Aurora, Colorado
- Jacksonville, Florida
- Orlando, Florida
And 19 more locations — see the full list below.
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 Jul 9, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations