NCT07286318 · Marissa Lobl
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Topical 5% Niacinamide for Skin Cancer Prevention in Transplant Recipients
What this study is about
A randomly assigned Controlled Trial of Topical 5% Niacinamide for Skin Cancer Prevention in Organ Transplant Recipients This study is designed to evaluate whether a topical 5% niacinamide cream can help prevent skin cancer in organ transplant recipients.
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A Randomized Controlled Trial of Topical 5% Niacinamide for Skin Cancer Prevention in Organ Transplant Recipients This study is designed to evaluate whether a topical 5% niacinamide cream can help prevent skin cancer in organ transplant recipients. Individuals who have received an organ transplant have a much higher risk of developing precancerous skin growths and skin cancers because of long-term immune-suppressing medications. Although sunscreen is an important part of sun protection, additional preventive approaches are needed. Early research suggests that niacinamide may help protect the skin, and this trial will examine whether a topical formulation provides benefit in this high-risk group. The study will test whether daily use of topical 5% niacinamide reduces the number of actinic keratoses over 6 and 12 months and whether it decreases the development of new keratinocyte cancers when compared with sunscreen alone. The study will also evaluate how well the topical product is tolerated and whether it can be used consistently as part of a daily skin-care routine. A total of 20 adult organ transplant recipients with a history of multiple actinic keratoses and at least one prior non-melanoma skin cancer will enroll in this 12-month, randomized, controlled trial. Participants will be assigned to receive either daily topical 5% niacinamide plus sunscreen or sunscreen alone. Skin examinations will be performed at 6 and 12 months using standardized mapping methods. Information on treatment tolerability, adherence, and any side effects will be collected through structured surveys, and any lesions suspicious for cancer will be evaluated by a board-certified pathologist.
Interventions
DRUG
Topical niacinamide 5% cream
Participants will be instructed to apply topical 5% niacinamide daily to any sun exposed areas.
DRUG
Sunscreen
Sunscreen application daily, broad spectrum SPF 30, to any sun exposed areas
Primary outcome measures
Change in baseline AK count
Time frame: Baseline, 6 months and 12 months
Change in actinic keratosis count at 6 and 12 months from baseline, measured by standardized assessment and clinical quantification
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 History of solid organ transplantation At least 5 AKs in the past year or prior history of skin cancer Participants are willing to continue using SPF30 sunscreen from their own supply
Exclusion criteria
- Known allergy to niacinamide or sunscreen components Eczema or other skin conditions for which niacinamide is contraindicated
Where
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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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 5, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations