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IMPEDE-PKD

Introduction

Implementation of Metformin theraPy to Ease DEcline of kidney function in PKD (IMPEDE‑PKD)

IMPEDE-PKD is a clinical trial to find out whether metformin (a medication) can protect kidney function for people who have autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease.

The trial is being conducted in New Zealand, Australia, India, and the UK. It will involve about 1,200 patients worldwide.

See below for information about the trial for patients and health professionals.

Contact us

Email impede-pkd.nz@otago.ac.nz
Phone 03 244 1979

Rachel and Jasjot work part-time; they will try their best to respond to you within three working days.

Infographic: Who can take part?

IMPEDE-PKD Trial: A study looking to see if metformin protects kidney function in Polycistic Kidney Disease (PKD). You need to be between 18 and 70; and have polycistic kidney disease (it runs in familes); and kidney function (GFR) between 38 and 90; and either very big kidneys or your kidney function (GFR) has decreased over time.
What will taking part in the study involve? 1. Meet the research team. 2. Take metformin for 10 weeks to find the right dose for you. 3. If you're OK with metformin, you'll take an inactive tablet or metformin for 2 years (by random chance). 4. Have extra health check ups in person or by phone. 5. Four times over 2 years, fill out a survey about your wellbeing / hauora, and have a blood test. This research will help provide better treatment for people with PKD.
It may not be possible for you to take part if you have: Diabetes, liver condition (other than caused by cysts), higher blood pressure, dialysis, kidney transplant, heart failure, currently taking metformin, active cancer, pregnant or breastfeeding. Please contact the New Zealand Co-ordination team: email impede-pkd.nz@otago.ac.nz or phone 032441979. Funded by the Health Research Council and approved by the Health and Disability Ethics Committee (2023 FULL 12544).

Video: IMPEDE‑PKD information guide

Watch this 5‑minute information video to learn more about the IMPEDE‑PKD trial.

Read our stories

Listen to our stories

Allan and Rachel sat down and discussed Allan’s experiences of being diagnosed PKD and getting involved in research. In addition to what he said in the video, he told us that he is so grateful that someone gave him a kidney. The transplant surgery has given him new life. He wants to pay that gift forward to others. The video is about 16 minutes.