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Pulmonary FibrosisJanuary 2020Summary reviewed August 2026

An Infusion Slowed Lung Scarring by 60% in People with Pulmonary Fibrosis

Researchers tested pamrevlumab, an infusion given every three weeks, in 103 people with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, a disease that scars the lungs and makes breathing harder. After a year, those who got the treatment lost 60% less lung function than those on placebo.

What the trial was testing

The PRAISE enrolled 160 patients with pulmonary fibrosis. The study was sponsored by Kyntra Bio and tracked outcomes across the full group of patients who matched the trial's eligibility profile.

It was mid-stage testing (phase 2/3). Trials at this stage are designed to produce evidence regulators and physicians can act on — not just observations to follow up later.

What the results showed

People getting pamrevlumab lost 60% less lung function over a year compared to those on placebo.

The Lancet. Respiratory medicine · 2020 · NCT01890265

These findings — that lung function declined much more slowly in those who got the treatment — were published in the The Lancet. Respiratory medicine and represent the headline result of the study.

Researchers tracked outcomes across 160 patients enrolled in the trial. The result was consistent enough across the group that the team felt confident reporting it.

What this means for patients

For patients with pulmonary fibrosis, this result changes the calculus on what to ask their care team about. Whether it changes day-to-day care depends on factors like disease subtype, prior treatments, and where the patient is in their care journey.

What you can do now

This was a mid-stage study and pamrevlumab is not yet FDA-approved. The drug is now being tested in larger trials. If you have idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, ask your doctor whether you might qualify for a clinical trial or what approved treatments could help slow lung scarring.

Eligibility for the treatments mentioned above depends on specific test results and clinical history. Bring this summary, the trial name, and your most recent labs or pathology report to your next visit.