Plain-English translation of NCT05383742 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
Phase 2 — Testing in a bigger group (up to a few hundred people) to see if the treatment actually works and is still safe.
This trial is testing a newer, shorter treatment approach for tuberculosis meningitis—a serious infection that affects the protective lining around the brain and spinal cord. Researchers want to see if taking higher doses of four medications (, , linezolid, and pyrazinamide) for 6 months works as well as or better than the standard 9-month treatment with lower doses. This medication combination is meant to fight the infection more quickly while potentially reducing the time you need treatment.
Tuberculosis meningitis is a devastating infection with very high mortality and serious complications, even with current treatment. While doctors think that higher doses of this medication might improve outcomes, more people still die or face severe brain damage than we'd like. This trial aims to find out if a shorter, stronger treatment plan can save more lives and prevent brain damage better than the current standard approach.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
You will be randomly assigned to receive either the new 6-month treatment or the standard 9-month treatment. If you receive the new treatment, you'll take four medications at higher doses for the first 8 weeks, then continue with two medications for 16 more weeks. You'll have regular clinic visits for blood tests, physical exams, and neurological assessments throughout the 72-week study period. All participants also receive a vitamin supplement with the treatment and will receive steroids based on the severity of their illness.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 3, 2026 · Not medical advice
Brazil
India
Kenya