NCT07483177 · Mayo Clinic
HEART: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to determine whether spironolactone reduces aortic stiffness, measured by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV), compared with placebo, in patients with degenerative thoracic aortic aneurysms.
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The purpose of this study is to determine whether spironolactone reduces aortic stiffness, measured by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV), compared with placebo, in patients with degenerative thoracic aortic aneurysms.
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
- Adults ≥ 18 years old with dTAA of the aortic root and/or ascending aorta exceeding the upper limit of normal for age, sex, and body surface area (≥ 4.0 cm as an example of a common threshold; but age, sex and body size-specific thresholds have been established for the aortic root24 and ascending aorta25);
- no antihypertensive use or stable antihypertensive regimen ≥ 4 weeks;
- eGFR ≥ 50 mL/min/1.73 m²;
- serum potassium ≤ 5.1 mmol/L;
- ability to provide informed consent.
Exclusion criteria
- Heritable aortopathies (Marfan, Loeys-Dietz, vascular Ehlers-Danlos, Turner syndromes; familial TAA, genetically-proven TAA);
- bicuspid aortic valve;
- inflammatory aortitis,
- prior aortic surgery, endovascular repair, or acute aortic syndrome;
- permanent atrial fibrillation/flutter;
- major peripheral artery disease affecting the carotids, iliacs and/or external femoral arteries precluding cfPWV measurement;
- current use of spironolactone, eplerenone or finererone;
- pregnancy or lactation.
Where
- Rochester, Minnesota
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 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations