NCT05987852 · Northwestern University
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Ulcerative Colitis (HBOT-UC)
(HBOT-UC)
What this study is about
Chronic intestinal hypoxia and accompanying mucosal inflammation is a hallmark of ulcerative colitis (UC). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing 100% oxygen under increased atmospheric pressure to increase tissue oxygenation.
View original scientific description
Chronic intestinal hypoxia and accompanying mucosal inflammation is a hallmark of ulcerative colitis (UC). Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing 100% oxygen under increased atmospheric pressure to increase tissue oxygenation. Two small prospective randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that the delivery of HBOT to UC patients hospitalized for acute moderate to severe flares results in improved remission rates and avoidance of in-hospital progression to biologics, small molecules, or colectomy. In this larger trial the study aims to confirm the treatment benefits of HBOT for hospitalized UC patients and study the immune-microbe mechanisms underpinning treatment response.
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
- Participants with known or newly diagnosed UC who require hospitalization for an acute moderate to severe flare
- Able to fully participate in all aspects of the trial
- Consented and able to receive first HBOT session within first 48 hours of initiation of intravenous steroids
- Agreement to not participate in another trial for the duration of the active intervention period
Exclusion criteria
- Received hyperbaric oxygen therapy either as part of standard of care or through a clinical trial prior to enrollment
- Complication requiring urgent surgical intervention
- Requirement for new start of a biologic or small molecule during the hospitalization prior to randomization and/or anticipated requirement for rescue medical or surgical therapy within 48 hours of randomization
- Toxic megacolon
- Inability to receive intravenous steroids
- Historically failed or been exposed to 4 or more classes of advanced therapeutic options
- Known or suspected diagnosis of Crohn's colitis, indeterminate colitis, ischemic colitis, radiation colitis, diverticular disease associated with colitis, microscopic colitis or infectious colitis
- Received any investigational drug within 30 days
- Clinically significant cardiac, renal, neurological, endocrine, respiratory or hepatic impairment that increases the risk for HBOT toxicity
- Women who are pregnant or nursing
- Unwillingness to complete course of HBOT
Where
- Birmingham, Alabama
- Los Angeles, California
- Miami, Florida
- Orlando, Florida
- Lake Forest, Illinois
- Louisville, Kentucky
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Rochester, Minnesota
- Lebanon, New Hampshire
- New York, New York
- Syracuse, New York
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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 Jan 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations