Respiratory Syncytial VirusPhase 2NCT05559905
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Human Challenge Study of Molnupiravir in Healthy Participants (MK-4482-017)
A Phase 2 study testing Molnupiravir and RSV A Memphis 37b in people with Respiratory Syncytial Virus, run by Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC at 1 site in United Kingdom.
Trial summary
This is a study of molnupiravir (MK-4482) in healthy participants who have been inoculated with an experimental Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) [RSV-A Memphis 37b]. It is hypothesized that treatment with the drug MK-4482 (molnupiravir) will reduce the peak viral load (PVL) in the participant compared to placebo when… Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 55 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus
- What is being tested?
- Molnupiravir and RSV A Memphis 37b
- Type of treatment
- Pill or oral medicine
- Could I receive a placebo?
- Yes, some participants may receive a placebo
- How many people
- 116 participants
- Where
- 1 siteUnited Kingdom
- Study dates
- 2 Nov 2022to 8 Jun 2023
- Phase
- Phase 2
- Are there results?
- Yes, posted in the registrySummary in the doctors' view
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 55 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Is in good health based on medical history, physical examination, vital sign measurements, spirometry, and electrocardiograms (ECGs) performed before randomization.
- Has a total body weight ≥50 kg and Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥18 kg/m^2 and ≤35 kg/m^2.
- For males, agrees to abstain from heterosexual intercourse OR use contraception unless confirmed to be azoospermic during the study and for 90 days after.
- For females, is not pregnant or breastfeeding, AND is either not a woman of childbearing potential (WOCBP) or is a WOCBP AND uses a highly effective contraceptive (low user dependency OR a user dependent hormonal method in combination with a barrier method), has a negative highly sensitive pregnancy test at screening, and has medical, menstrual, and recent sexual activity history reviewed by the investigator to decrease risk of early undetected pregnancy.
Who cannot join
- Has a history of, or currently active, symptoms or signs suggestive of upper or lower respiratory tract infection within 4 weeks prior to the first study visit.
- Has a history of clinically significant endocrine, gastrointestinal (GI), cardiovascular, hematological, hepatic, immunological, renal, respiratory, genitourinary, or major neurological (including stroke and chronic seizures) abnormalities or diseases.
- Has a history of resolved depression and/or anxiety 1 or more years ago may be included at the discretion of the investigator.
- Has a history of cancer (malignancy).
- Has a history of rhinitis (including hay fever) which is clinically active or history of moderate to severe rhinitis, or history of seasonal allergic rhinitis likely to be active at the time of inclusion into the study and/or requiring regular nasal corticosteroids on an at least weekly basis, within 30 days of admission to quarantine.
- Has a history of atopic dermatitis/eczema which is clinically severe and/or requiring moderate to large amounts of daily dermal corticosteroids.
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- If the reporting physician has diagnosed migraine can be included, provided there are no associated neurological symptoms such as hemiplegia or visual loss.
- If there is a physician diagnosed mild Irritable Bowel Syndrome not requiring regular treatment, can be included at the discretion of the investigator.
- Uses or anticipates use during study of herbal supplements within 7 days prior to Viral Challenge, any cytochrome P450 (CYP450)-inhibiting medications within 21 days prior to Viral Challenge, any over-the-counter medications (eg, ibuprofen) within 7 days prior to Viral Challenge, or any systemic anti-viral administration within 4 weeks of Viral Challenge/first dosing of study medication.
- Has evidence of receipt of vaccine within the 4 weeks prior to the planned date of viral challenge/first dosing with study medication (whichever occurs first).
- Intends to receive any vaccine before the last study visit.
- Has received any investigational drug within 3 months or 5 half-lives (whichever is greater) prior to the planned date of viral challenge/first dosing with study medication (whichever occurs first).
- Has received ≥3 investigational drugs in the past 12 months.
- Has had a prior inoculation with a virus from the same family as the challenge virus.
- Has smoked ≥10 pack years at any time (one pack of 20 cigarettes a day for 10 years).
- Has a recent history or presence of alcohol addiction, or excessive use of alcohol (weekly intake in excess of 28 units alcohol; 1 unit being a half glass of beer, a small glass of wine or a measure of spirits), or excessive consumption of xanthine-containing substances (eg, daily intake in excess of 5 cups of caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea, cola).
- Has a lifetime history of anaphylaxis and/or a lifetime history of severe allergic reaction.
- Has any significant abnormality altering the anatomy of the nose in a substantial way or nasopharynx that may interfere with the aims of the study and, in particular, any of the nasal assessments or viral challenge.
- Has any clinically significant history of epistaxis (large nosebleeds) within the last 3 months of the first study visit and/or history of being hospitalized due to epistaxis on any previous occasion.
- Has had any nasal or sinus surgery within 3 months of the first study visit.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
United Kingdom1 site
hVIVO Services ( Site 0001)
London, London, City of, E1 2AX
About this study
Official title: A Phase 2a Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of MK-4482 in Healthy Participants Inoculated With Experimental Respiratory Syncytial Virus
This is a study of molnupiravir (MK-4482) in healthy participants who have been inoculated with an experimental Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) [RSV-A Memphis 37b]. It is hypothesized that treatment with the drug MK-4482 (molnupiravir) will reduce the peak viral load (PVL) in the participant compared to placebo when given either before or after RSV-A Memphis 37b inoculation.
Read the detailed description
Participants arrive at the study center for check-in between Day -3 and Day -1. Participants receive the assigned treatment beginning on Day -1. On Day 0, all participants receive viral inoculation with RSV-A Memphis 37b. All participants depart on Day 12 and follow-up is continued until Day 28.
The study is designed with the following arms:
- Panel A: Molupiravir Prophylaxis - in this arm, participants receive molupiravir beginning on Day -1, are incoluated with RSV-A Memphis 37b on Day 0, and continue receiving molnupiravir for a total of 5 days before switching to placebo through Day 10.
- Panel B: Molupiravir Triggered Treatment - in this arm, participants receive placebo beginning on Day -1 until testing positive for RSV. Participants are inoculated with RSV-A Memphis 37b on Day 0. When participants test positive for RSV, they switch to molnupiravir for a total of 5 consecutive days before switching back to placebo through Day 10. If participants in this arm do not test positive for RSV by Day 5, they automatically switch to molnupiravir through Day 10.
- Panel C: Placebo - in this arm, all participants receive placebo beginning on Day -1, are inoculated with RSV-A Memphis 37b on Day 0, and continue receiving placebo through Day 10.
- Conditions
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus
- Being tested
- Molnupiravir, Placebo, RSV A Memphis 37b
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
MolnupiravirDrug
Also called MK-4482
Four molnupiravir 200 mg capsules (800 mg total dose) taken twice daily by mouth.
PlaceboDrug
Placebo capsule matched to molnupiravir taken twice daily by mouth.
RSV A Memphis 37bBiological
RSV A Memphis 37b viral challenge given once by intranasal administration at a dosage of ~4 Log10 plaque forming units (PFUs).
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Panel A: Molnupiravir Prophylaxis | Experimental | Participants received molnupiravir 800 mg every 12 hours for 5 days beginning on Day -1, and are inoculated with RSV-A Memphis 37b on Day 0. Participants switch to placebo beginning on the evening of Day 4 to the morning of Day 10. Receives: Drug: Molnupiravir; Drug: Placebo; Biological: RSV A Memphis 37b |
| Panel B: Molnupiravir Triggered Treatment | Experimental | Participants received placebo on Day -1, are inoculated with RSV-A Memphis 37b on Day 0, and continue to receive placebo until testing positive for RSV. Participants then received 800 mg of molnupiravir every 12 hours for 5 days. Receives: Drug: Molnupiravir; Drug: Placebo; Biological: RSV A Memphis 37b |
| Panel C: Matched Placebo | Placebo comparator | Participants received placebo beginning on Day -1, are inoculated with RSV-A Memphis 37b on Day 0, and continue receiving placebo until the morning of Day 10. Receives: Drug: Placebo; Biological: RSV A Memphis 37b |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Panel A vs Panel C: Peak Viral Load (PVL) Determined by Viral Quantitative Culture
PVL was defined as the maximum viral load during a specified time period. PVL determined by viral quantitative culture (plaque assay) was measured from Day 2 up to Day 12 (end of participant quarantine). PVL (on the log10 scale) of RSV A Memphis 37b determined by viral quantitative culture (plaque assay) between Day 2 and Day 12 am after intranasal inoculation (Day 0) was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the model.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Area Under the Viral Load-time Curve (VL-AUC) Determined by Viral Quantitative Culture
VL-AUC between Day 2 and Day 12 after intranasal inoculation (Day 0) was computed for each participant, based on RSV viral load determined by viral quantitative culture (plaque assay) from nasal wash samples collected twice daily (morning and evening). In order to calculate the AUC, the actual time that the assessment was collected was used within the AUC calculation. VL-AUC (on the log10 scale) was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel B (treatment) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the model. For both panels, only the participants with RSV infection were included.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Secondary outcomes (31)
All Panels: Number of Participants Who Experienced ≥1 Adverse Event (AE)
An AE is any untoward medical occurrence in a clinical study participant, temporally associated with the use of study intervention, whether or not considered related to the study intervention. The number of participants who experienced an AE is reported.
Measured: From Day -1 up to Day 28
All Panels: Number of Participants Who Experienced ≥1 Serious AE (SAE)
An SAE is any untoward medical occurrence that, at any dose, results in death; is life-threatening; requires hospitalization or prolongs existing hospitalization; results in persistent or significant disability/incapacity; is a congenital anomaly or birth defect; or is another important medical event such as invasive/malignant cancers or substance abuse/dependency. The number of participants who experienced an SAE is reported.
Measured: From Day -1 up to Day 28
All Panels: Number of Participants Who Experienced ≥1 Viral Challenge-Related AE
A viral challenge-related AE was defined as any untoward medical occurrence in a clinical study participant, temporally associated with the use of study intervention, that was considered related to the viral challenge (inoculation). The number of participants who experienced AEs related to the viral challenge from viral challenge (Day 0) up to the Day 28 follow-up is reported.
Measured: From Day 0 up to Day 28
All Panels: Number of Participants Who Experienced ≥1 Viral Challenge-Related SAE
A viral challenge-related SAE was defined as any untoward medical occurrence that, at any dose, resulted in death; was life-threatening; required hospitalization or prolonged existing hospitalization; resulted in persistent or significant disability/incapacity; was a congenital anomaly or birth defect; or was another important medical event, that was considered related to the viral challenge (inoculation). The number of participants who experienced SAEs related to the viral challenge from viral challenge (Day 0) up to the Day 28 follow-up is reported.
Measured: From Day 0 up to Day 28
All Panels: Number of Participants Using Concomitant Medications From Viral Challenge Through Day 28
Concomitant medications were defined as any prescription medications, over the counter drugs or dietary supplements that a participant happened to be taking while on study, in addition to molnupiravir. The number of participants using concomitant medications from viral challenge (Day 0) up through Day 28 is reported.
Measured: From Day 0 up to Day 28
Panel A vs. Panel C: VL-AUC Determined by Viral Quantitative Culture
VL-AUC between Day 2 and Day 12 after intranasal inoculation (Day 0) was computed for each participant, based on RSV viral load determined by viral quantitative culture (plaque assay) from nasal wash samples collected twice daily (morning and evening). In order to calculate the AUC, the actual time that the assessment was collected was used within the AUC calculation. VL-AUC (on the log10 scale) was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the model.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: VL-AUC Determined by Real-time Quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR)
VL-AUC between Day 2 and Day 12 after intranasal inoculation (Day 0) was computed for each participant, based on RSV viral load determined by qRT-PCR from nasal wash samples collected twice daily (morning and evening). In order to calculate the AUC, the actual time that the assessment was collected was used within the AUC calculation. VL-AUC (on the log10 scale) was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the model.
Measured: Day 2 up through Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: PVL Determined by qRT-PCR
PVL was defined as the maximum viral load during a specified time period. PVL as determined by qRT-PCR was measured starting from Day 2 up to planned discharge from quarantine (Day 12 am). Nasal wash samples were collected and tested for RSV viral load by qRT-PCR twice daily from Day 2 through Day 11. A single nasal wash sample for RSV viral load by qRT-PCR was collected on Day 12. PVL by qRT-PCR was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the model.
Measured: Day 2 up through Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Area Under the Curve Over Time of Total Symptom Scores (TSS-AUC)
Participants used a symptom diary card to record the daily severity of 10 clinical symptoms on a scale ranging from 0 ("no symptoms") to 3 ("bothersome and interferes with activities"), with the exception of "shortness of breath" symptom which was scored from 0 ("no symptoms") to 4 ("symptoms at rest"). Total symptom scores (TSS) ranged from 0 to 31, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity. TSS were used to calculate the AUC for each participant based on the available non-missing calculated total symptom scores between Day -1 until Day 12 (quarantine discharge) using the Trapezoidal rule. TSS-AUC was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the model. TSS-AUC measured from 10 symptoms within the graded symptom scoring was reported.
Measured: From Day -1 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Area Under the Curve Over Time of Total Symptom Scores Change From Baseline (TSS-AUC-CFB)
Participants used a symptom diary card to record the daily severity of 10 clinical symptoms on a scale ranging from 0 ("absence") to 3 ("bothersome and interferes with activities"), with the exception of "shortness of breath" symptom which was scored from 0 ("no symptoms") to 4 ("symptoms at rest"). TSS ranged from 0 to 31, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity. TSS were used to calculate the AUC for each participant based on the available non-missing calculated total symptom scores between Day -1 until Day 12 (quarantine discharge) using the Trapezoidal rule. TSS-AUC-CFB was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the model. TSS-AUC-CFB was defined as the change from baseline in TSS-AUC from Day -1 up to Day 12. TSS-AUC-CFB measured from 10 symptoms within the graded symptom scoring was reported.
Measured: Baseline (Day -1) and up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Peak Total Symptom Scores
Participants used a symptom diary card to record the daily severity of 10 clinical symptoms on a scale ranging from 0 ("no symptoms") to 3 ("bothersome and interferes with activities"), with the exception of "shortness of breath" symptom which was scored from 0 ("no symptoms") to 4 ("symptoms at rest"). TSS ranged from 0 to 31, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity. The highest TSS (defined as the sum of all 10 individual composite symptoms) was summarized by treatment group and analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the model. Peak TSS measured from 10 symptoms within the graded symptom scoring was reported.
Measured: From Day -1 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Peak Daily Symptom Score
Participants used a symptom diary card to record the daily severity of 10 clinical symptoms on a scale ranging from 0 ("no symptoms") to 3 ("bothersome and interferes with activities"), with the exception of "shortness of breath" symptom which was scored from 0 ("no symptoms") to 4 ("symptoms at rest"). TSS ranged from 0 to 31, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity. The highest total symptom score recorded on each day, across the three assessments, for each participant was summarized descriptively by treatment group and assessment day. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the analysis. Peak daily sums of symptom score measured from 10 symptoms within the graded symptom scoring were reported for Panels A and C.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Percentage of Participants With Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection Based on qRT-PCR
A qRT-PCR-confirmed RSV infection was defined as 2 quantifiable (≥ lower limit of quantification [LLOQ]) qRT-PCR measurements (reported on 2 or more independent samples over 2 days), from Day 2 up to Day 12. The number of participants with qRT-PCR-confirmed RSV infection is reported. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Percentage of Participants With RSV Infection Based on Cell Culture Measurement of Nasal Sample
RSV infection based on cell culture measurement was defined as at least one positive (≥ LLOQ) cell culture measurement in nasal swab samples. The percentage of participants with at least one positive (≥ LLOQ) cell culture measurement in nasal swab samples is reported. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Percentage of Participants With qRT-PCR Confirmed Symptomatic RSV Infection
Symptomatic RSV infection was defined as 2 quantifiable (≥LLOQ) qRT-PCR measurements reported on 2 or more days and either one or more clinical symptoms of any grade from two different categories in the symptom scoring system (upper respiratory, lower respiratory, systemic) or one grade 2 symptom from any category. The percentage of participants with qRT-PCR-confirmed symptomatic RSV infection is reported. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Percentage of Participants With qRT-PCR Confirmed Moderately Severe Symptomatic RSV Infection
Moderately severe symptomatic RSV infection was defined as 2 quantifiable (≥LLOQ) qRT-PCR measurements reported on 2 or more consecutive days and any symptom scores of grade ≥2 at a single time point. The percentage of participants with qRT-PCR-confirmed moderately severe symptomatic RSV infection is reported. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Percentage of Participants With Culture-Confirmed Symptomatic RSV Infection
Culture-confirmed symptomatic RSV infection was defined by 1 quantifiable (≥LLOQ) cell culture measurement from Day 2 up to Day 12, and either one or more clinical symptoms of any grade from two different categories in the symptom scoring system (upper respiratory, lower respiratory, systemic) or one grade 2 symptom from any category. The percentage of participants with culture confirmed symptomatic RSV infection is reported. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: PVL Determined by Viral Quantitative Culture
PVL was defined as the maximum viral load during a specified time period. PVL as determined by viral quantitative culture was measured starting from Day 2 up to planned discharge from quarantine (Day 12 am). PVL (on the log10 scale) of RSV A Memphis 37b determined by viral quantitative culture (plaque assay) between Day 2 and Day 12 am after intranasal inoculation (Day 0) was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel B (treatment) and Panel C (placebo) are included in the model. For both panels, only the participants with RSV infection were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Time to Negative Test by Viral Quantitative Culture
The time to negative test was defined as length of time in days between the date and time of the first MK-4482 administration to the date and time of first confirmed negative test after peak viral culture measurement. A negative test is a result below the low limit of quantification (LLOQ) by viral quantitative culture (plaque assay). The Kaplan-Meier estimate median in days is reported. Per protocol, only Panel B (treatment) and Panel C (placebo) are included in the model. For both panels, only the participants with RSV infection were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: VL-AUC Determined by qRT-PCR
VL-AUC between Day 2 and Day 12 after intranasal inoculation (Day 0) was computed for each participant, based on RSV viral load determined by qRT-PCR from nasal wash samples collected twice daily (morning and evening). In order to calculate the AUC, the actual time that the assessment was collected was used within the AUC calculation. VL-AUC (on the log10 scale) was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel B (treatment) and Panel C (placebo) are included in the model. For both panels, only the participants with RSV infection were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: PVL Determined by qRT-PCR
PVL was defined as the maximum viral load during a specified time period. PVL as determined by qRT-PCR was measured starting from Day 2 up to planned discharge from quarantine (Day 12 am). Nasal wash samples were collected and tested for RSV viral load by qRT-PCR twice daily from Day 2 through Day 11. A single nasal wash sample for RSV viral load by qRT-PCR was collected on Day 12. PVL by qRT-PCR were analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel B (treatment) and Panel C (placebo) are included in the model. For both panels, only the participants with RSV infection were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Time to Negative Test by qRT-PCR
The time (days) to confirmed negative test by qRT-PCR was defined as the length of time between the date and time of the first investigational medicinal product (IMP) administration to the date and time of first confirmed undetectable (<LLOQ) qRT-PCR result after peak qRT-PCR measurement. The time to negative test starting at Day 2 to first confirmed undetectable (<LLOQ) assessment after peak measure is reported. Per protocol, only Panel B (treatment) and Panel C (placebo) are included in the model. For both panels, only the participants with RSV infection were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: TSS-AUC
Participants used a symptom diary card to record the daily severity of 10 clinical symptoms on a scale ranging from 0 ("no symptoms") to 3 ("bothersome and interferes with activities"), with the exception of "shortness of breath" symptom which was scored from 0 ("no symptoms") to 4 ("symptoms at rest"). Total symptom scores (TSS) ranged from 0 to 31, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity. TSS were used to calculate the AUC for each participant based on the available non-missing calculated total symptom scores between Day -1 until Day 12 (quarantine discharge) using the Trapezoidal rule. TSS-AUC was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel B and Panel C are included in the model, and only participants with RSV infection were included in the analysis. TSS-AUC measured from 10 symptoms within the graded symptom scoring was reported.
Measured: From Day -1 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Area Under the Curve Over Time of Total Symptom Scores Change From Baseline (TSS-AUC-CFB)
Participants used a symptom diary card to record the daily severity of 10 clinical symptoms on a scale ranging from 0 ("absence") to 3 ("bothersome and interferes with activities"), with the exception of "shortness of breath" symptom which was scored from 0 ("no symptoms") to 4 ("symptoms at rest"). TSS ranged from 0 to 31, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity. TSS were used to calculate the AUC for each participant based on the available non-missing calculated total symptom scores between Day -1 until Day 12 (quarantine discharge) using the Trapezoidal rule. TSS-AUC-CFB was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel B and Panel C are included in the model, and only the participants with RSV infection were included in the analysis. TSS-AUC-CFB was defined as the change from baseline in TSS-AUC from Day -1 up to Day 12. TSS-AUC-CFB measured from 10 symptoms within the graded symptom scoring was reported.
Measured: Baseline (Day -1) and up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Peak TSS
Participants used a symptom diary card to record the daily severity of 10 clinical symptoms on a scale ranging from 0 ("no symptoms") to 3 ("bothersome and interferes with activities"), with the exception of "shortness of breath" symptom which was scored from 0 ("no symptoms") to 4 ("symptoms at rest"). TSS ranged from 0 to 31, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity. The highest total symptom score (defined as the sum of all 10 individual composite symptoms) was summarized by treatment group and analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Peak TSS measured from 10 symptoms within the graded symptom scoring was reported for Panels B and C. Per protocol, only Panel B (treatment) and Panel C (placebo) are included in the model. For both panels, only the participants with RSV infection were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day -1 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Peak Daily Symptom Score
Participants used a symptom diary card to record the daily severity of 10 clinical symptoms on a scale ranging from 0 ("no symptoms") to 3 ("bothersome and interferes with activities"), with the exception of "shortness of breath" symptom which was scored from 0 ("no symptoms") to 4 ("symptoms at rest"). TSS ranged from 0 to 31, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity. The highest total symptom score recorded on each day, across the three assessments, for each participant was summarized descriptively by treatment group and assessment day. Peak daily sums of symptom score measured from 10 symptoms within the graded symptom scoring were reported for Panels B and C. Per protocol, only Panel B (treatment) and Panel C (placebo) are included in the model. For both panels, only the participants with RSV infection were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day -1 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Time to Symptom Resolution
Participants used a symptom diary card to record the daily severity of 10 clinical symptoms on a scale ranging from 0 ("no symptoms") to 3 ("bothersome and interferes with activities"), with the exception of "shortness of breath" symptom which was scored from 0 ("no symptoms") to 4 ("symptoms at rest"). TSS ranged from 0 to 31, with higher scores indicating greater symptom severity. Symptom resolution was defined as a participant scoring 0 for the total symptom score for a 24-hour period (e.g., a minimum of three consecutive symptom diary cards, each with a score of 0 after their peak symptom score. The time in days to symptom resolution by treatment group, as measured from 10 symptoms within the graded daily symptom scoring system, was reported. Per protocol, only Panel B (treatment) and Panel C (placebo) are included in the model. For both panels, only the participants with RSV infection were included in the analysis.
Measured: From Day -1 up to Day 12
Panels A & B: Maximum Plasma Concentration (Cmax) of N-Hydroxycytidine (NHC)
NHC is the pharmacologically active moiety of molnupiravir and therefore its primary pharmacokinetic measure. Cmax was defined as the peak concentration of NHC over the dosing interval. Plasma samples were collected at multiple time points pre-and post-administration and used to determine Cmax. Cmax of NHC was reported for participants receiving molnupiravir in Panels A and B.
Measured: Day -1: Predose and 12 hours postdose; Days 2, 5, and 6: 12 hours postdose; Days 4 and 7: predose and 0.5, 1.5, 4, 8, and 12 hours postdose
Panels A & B: Time to Maximum Plasma Concentration (Tmax) of NHC
NHC is the pharmacologically active moiety of molnupiravir and therefore its primary pharmacokinetic measure. Tmax was defined as the time to peak concentration. Plasma samples were collected at multiple time points pre-and post-administration and used to determine Tmax. Tmax of NHC was reported for participants receiving molnupiravir in Panels A and B.
Measured: Day -1: Predose and 12 hours postdose; Days 2, 5, and 6: 12 hours postdose; Days 4 and 7: predose and 0.5, 1.5, 4, 8, and 12 hours postdose
Panels A & B: Area Under the Plasma Concentration Curve From 0 to 12 Hours Postdose (AUC0-12) of NHC
NHC is the pharmacologically active moiety of molnupiravir and therefore its primary pharmacokinetic measure. Plasma samples were collected at multiple time points pre-and post-administration and used to determine the area under the plasma concentration curve from time 0 to 12 hours (AUC0-12). AUC0-12 was reported for participants receiving molnupiravir in Panels A and B.
Measured: Day -1: Predose and 12 hours postdose; Days 2, 5, and 6: 12 hours postdose; Days 4 and 7: predose and 0.5, 1.5, 4, 8, and 12 hours postdose
Panels A & B: Trough Concentration (Ctrough) of NHC
NHC is the pharmacologically active moiety of molnupiravir and therefore its primary pharmacokinetic measure. The trough concentration (Ctrough) was defined as the lowest concentration before the next dose. Plasma samples were collected at multiple time points pre-and post-administration and used to determine Cmax. Ctrough of NHC in plasma was reported for participants receiving molnupiravir in Panels A and B.
Measured: Day 2 at 12 hours predose (Panel A) or Day 6 at 12 hours predose (Panel B)
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted29 Sep 2022
- Study start2 Nov 2022
- Primary completion18 Apr 2023
- Study completion8 Jun 2023
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Posted resultsParticipant flow, outcome measures and adverse events reported by the sponsor.
- Publications (1)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Respiratory Syncytial VirusStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Merck Sharp & Dohme LLCThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase 2
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Double blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Investigator
- Enrolment
- 116 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
- Sponsor type
- Industry (pharma, biotech, devices)
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Medical Director, Study director, Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT05559905
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- 4482-017
- Other IDs
- MK-4482-017
- Status last verified
- Jul 2025
- First submitted
- 26 Sep 2022
- Last updated
- 18 Jul 2025
- Results posted
- Yes, on ClinicalTrials.gov
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- Yes
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Yes: http://engagezone.msd.com/doc/ProcedureAccessClinicalTrialData.pdf
Publications
Cheng MH, Mann AJ, Maas BM, Zhao T, Bevan M, Schaeffer AK, Liao LE, Catchpole AP, Hilbert DW, Aubrey Stoch S, De Anda CS. A Phase 2a, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Human Challenge Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Molnupiravir in Healthy Participants Inoculated with Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Pulm Ther. 2025 Jun;11(2):285-304. doi: 10.1007/s41030-025-00289-z. Epub 2025 Apr 2.
PubMed 40175624
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 18 Jul 2025. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- A Phase 2a Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of MK-4482 in Healthy Participants Inoculated With Experimental Respiratory Syncytial Virus
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT05559905
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- 4482-017
- Conditions
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus
- Phase
- Phase 2
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 116 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Merck Sharp & Dohme LLCIndustry (pharma, biotech, devices)
- Study start
- 2 Nov 2022 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 18 Apr 2023 (actual)
- Study completion
- 8 Jun 2023 (actual)
- First posted
- 29 Sep 2022 (actual)
- Results
- Posted 20 May 2024
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This is a study of molnupiravir (MK-4482) in healthy participants who have been inoculated with an experimental Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) [RSV-A Memphis 37b]. It is hypothesized that treatment with the drug MK-4482 (molnupiravir) will reduce the peak viral load (PVL) in the participant compared to placebo when given either before or after RSV-A Memphis 37b inoculation.
Detailed description
Participants arrive at the study center for check-in between Day -3 and Day -1. Participants receive the assigned treatment beginning on Day -1. On Day 0, all participants receive viral inoculation with RSV-A Memphis 37b. All participants depart on Day 12 and follow-up is continued until Day 28.
The study is designed with the following arms:
- Panel A: Molupiravir Prophylaxis - in this arm, participants receive molupiravir beginning on Day -1, are incoluated with RSV-A Memphis 37b on Day 0, and continue receiving molnupiravir for a total of 5 days before switching to placebo through Day 10.
- Panel B: Molupiravir Triggered Treatment - in this arm, participants receive placebo beginning on Day -1 until testing positive for RSV. Participants are inoculated with RSV-A Memphis 37b on Day 0. When participants test positive for RSV, they switch to molnupiravir for a total of 5 consecutive days before switching back to placebo through Day 10. If participants in this arm do not test positive for RSV by Day 5, they automatically switch to molnupiravir through Day 10.
- Panel C: Placebo - in this arm, all participants receive placebo beginning on Day -1, are inoculated with RSV-A Memphis 37b on Day 0, and continue receiving placebo through Day 10.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Double blind (participant, investigator)
- Number of arms
- 3
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Panel A: Molnupiravir Prophylaxis | Experimental | Drug: Molnupiravir, Drug: Placebo, Biological: RSV A Memphis 37bParticipants received molnupiravir 800 mg every 12 hours for 5 days beginning on Day -1, and are inoculated with RSV-A Memphis 37b on Day 0. Participants switch to placebo beginning on the evening of Day 4 to the morning of Day 10. |
| Panel B: Molnupiravir Triggered Treatment | Experimental | Drug: Molnupiravir, Drug: Placebo, Biological: RSV A Memphis 37bParticipants received placebo on Day -1, are inoculated with RSV-A Memphis 37b on Day 0, and continue to receive placebo until testing positive for RSV. Participants then received 800 mg of molnupiravir every 12 hours for 5 days. |
| Panel C: Matched Placebo | Placebo comparator | Drug: Placebo, Biological: RSV A Memphis 37bParticipants received placebo beginning on Day -1, are inoculated with RSV-A Memphis 37b on Day 0, and continue receiving placebo until the morning of Day 10. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 55 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Is in good health based on medical history, physical examination, vital sign measurements, spirometry, and electrocardiograms (ECGs) performed before randomization.
- Has a total body weight ≥50 kg and Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥18 kg/m^2 and ≤35 kg/m^2.
- For males, agrees to abstain from heterosexual intercourse OR use contraception unless confirmed to be azoospermic during the study and for 90 days after.
- For females, is not pregnant or breastfeeding, AND is either not a woman of childbearing potential (WOCBP) or is a WOCBP AND uses a highly effective contraceptive (low user dependency OR a user dependent hormonal method in combination with a barrier method), has a negative highly sensitive pregnancy test at screening, and has medical, menstrual, and recent sexual activity history reviewed by the investigator to decrease risk of early undetected pregnancy.
Key exclusion criteria (20 listed)
- Has a history of, or currently active, symptoms or signs suggestive of upper or lower respiratory tract infection within 4 weeks prior to the first study visit.
- Has a history of clinically significant endocrine, gastrointestinal (GI), cardiovascular, hematological, hepatic, immunological, renal, respiratory, genitourinary, or major neurological (including stroke and chronic seizures) abnormalities or diseases.
- Has a history of resolved depression and/or anxiety 1 or more years ago may be included at the discretion of the investigator.
- Has a history of cancer (malignancy).
- Has a history of rhinitis (including hay fever) which is clinically active or history of moderate to severe rhinitis, or history of seasonal allergic rhinitis likely to be active at the time of inclusion into the study and/or requiring regular nasal corticosteroids on an at least weekly basis, within 30 days of admission to quarantine.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| MolnupiravirAlso: MK-4482Four molnupiravir 200 mg capsules (800 mg total dose) taken twice daily by mouth. | Drug | Panel A: Molnupiravir Prophylaxis, Panel B: Molnupiravir Triggered Treatment |
| PlaceboPlacebo capsule matched to molnupiravir taken twice daily by mouth. | Drug | Panel A: Molnupiravir Prophylaxis, Panel B: Molnupiravir Triggered Treatment, Panel C: Matched Placebo |
| RSV A Memphis 37bRSV A Memphis 37b viral challenge given once by intranasal administration at a dosage of ~4 Log10 plaque forming units (PFUs). | Biological | Panel A: Molnupiravir Prophylaxis, Panel B: Molnupiravir Triggered Treatment, Panel C: Matched Placebo |
Primary outcome
Panel A vs Panel C: Peak Viral Load (PVL) Determined by Viral Quantitative Culture
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
PVL was defined as the maximum viral load during a specified time period. PVL determined by viral quantitative culture (plaque assay) was measured from Day 2 up to Day 12 (end of participant quarantine). PVL (on the log10 scale) of RSV A Memphis 37b determined by viral quantitative culture (plaque assay) between Day 2 and Day 12 am after intranasal inoculation (Day 0) was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel A (prophylaxis) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the model.
Panel B vs. Panel C: Area Under the Viral Load-time Curve (VL-AUC) Determined by Viral Quantitative Culture
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
VL-AUC between Day 2 and Day 12 after intranasal inoculation (Day 0) was computed for each participant, based on RSV viral load determined by viral quantitative culture (plaque assay) from nasal wash samples collected twice daily (morning and evening). In order to calculate the AUC, the actual time that the assessment was collected was used within the AUC calculation. VL-AUC (on the log10 scale) was analyzed using a linear model with treatment group as a fixed categorical effect. Per protocol, only Panel B (treatment) and Panel C (placebo) were included in the model. For both panels, only the participants with RSV infection were included.
31 secondary outcomes
All Panels: Number of Participants Who Experienced ≥1 Adverse Event (AE)
Time frame: From Day -1 up to Day 28
All Panels: Number of Participants Who Experienced ≥1 Serious AE (SAE)
Time frame: From Day -1 up to Day 28
All Panels: Number of Participants Who Experienced ≥1 Viral Challenge-Related AE
Time frame: From Day 0 up to Day 28
All Panels: Number of Participants Who Experienced ≥1 Viral Challenge-Related SAE
Time frame: From Day 0 up to Day 28
All Panels: Number of Participants Using Concomitant Medications From Viral Challenge Through Day 28
Time frame: From Day 0 up to Day 28
Panel A vs. Panel C: VL-AUC Determined by Viral Quantitative Culture
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: VL-AUC Determined by Real-time Quantitative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR)
Time frame: Day 2 up through Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: PVL Determined by qRT-PCR
Time frame: Day 2 up through Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Area Under the Curve Over Time of Total Symptom Scores (TSS-AUC)
Time frame: From Day -1 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Area Under the Curve Over Time of Total Symptom Scores Change From Baseline (TSS-AUC-CFB)
Time frame: Baseline (Day -1) and up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Peak Total Symptom Scores
Time frame: From Day -1 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Peak Daily Symptom Score
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Percentage of Participants With Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Infection Based on qRT-PCR
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Percentage of Participants With RSV Infection Based on Cell Culture Measurement of Nasal Sample
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Percentage of Participants With qRT-PCR Confirmed Symptomatic RSV Infection
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Percentage of Participants With qRT-PCR Confirmed Moderately Severe Symptomatic RSV Infection
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel A vs. Panel C: Percentage of Participants With Culture-Confirmed Symptomatic RSV Infection
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: PVL Determined by Viral Quantitative Culture
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Time to Negative Test by Viral Quantitative Culture
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: VL-AUC Determined by qRT-PCR
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: PVL Determined by qRT-PCR
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Time to Negative Test by qRT-PCR
Time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: TSS-AUC
Time frame: From Day -1 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Area Under the Curve Over Time of Total Symptom Scores Change From Baseline (TSS-AUC-CFB)
Time frame: Baseline (Day -1) and up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Peak TSS
Time frame: From Day -1 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Peak Daily Symptom Score
Time frame: From Day -1 up to Day 12
Panel B vs. Panel C: Time to Symptom Resolution
Time frame: From Day -1 up to Day 12
Panels A & B: Maximum Plasma Concentration (Cmax) of N-Hydroxycytidine (NHC)
Time frame: Day -1: Predose and 12 hours postdose; Days 2, 5, and 6: 12 hours postdose; Days 4 and 7: predose and 0.5, 1.5, 4, 8, and 12 hours postdose
Panels A & B: Time to Maximum Plasma Concentration (Tmax) of NHC
Time frame: Day -1: Predose and 12 hours postdose; Days 2, 5, and 6: 12 hours postdose; Days 4 and 7: predose and 0.5, 1.5, 4, 8, and 12 hours postdose
Panels A & B: Area Under the Plasma Concentration Curve From 0 to 12 Hours Postdose (AUC0-12) of NHC
Time frame: Day -1: Predose and 12 hours postdose; Days 2, 5, and 6: 12 hours postdose; Days 4 and 7: predose and 0.5, 1.5, 4, 8, and 12 hours postdose
Panels A & B: Trough Concentration (Ctrough) of NHC
Time frame: Day 2 at 12 hours predose (Panel A) or Day 6 at 12 hours predose (Panel B)
Results and safety
Loading the posted results from ClinicalTrials.gov…
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 18 Jul 2025.
- Posted resultsParticipant flow, baseline, all outcome measures and adverse events.
- Results publication: PubMed 40175624Cheng MH, Mann AJ, Maas BM, Zhao T, Bevan M, Schaeffer AK, Liao LE, Catchpole AP, Hilbert DW, Aubrey Stoch S, De Anda CS. A Phase 2a, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Human Challenge Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Molnupiravir in Healthy Participants Inoculated with Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Pulm Ther. 2025 Jun;11(2):285-304. doi: 10.1007/s41030-025-00289-z. Epub 2025 Apr 2.
- Merck Clinical Trials InformationLink provided by the sponsor.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Yes. http://engagezone.msd.com/doc/ProcedureAccessClinicalTrialData.pdf
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Medical Director study director
Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A Phase 2 study testing Molnupiravir and RSV A Memphis 37b in people with Respiratory Syncytial Virus, run by Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC at 1 site in United Kingdom.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 20 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 18 Jul 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in United Kingdom. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. Some participants in this study may receive a placebo. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
What does this phase mean?
Phase 2 studies give the treatment to a larger group to see whether it has the intended effect and to keep checking safety.
Not every study follows the same path, and some studies (observational studies, device studies) have no phase.
Are results available for this study?
Yes. Results are posted in the registry (first posted 20 May 2024). A summary is in the For doctors view, and the full results are on ClinicalTrials.gov.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Panel A vs Panel C: Peak Viral Load (PVL) Determined by Viral Quantitative Culture (time frame: From Day 2 up to Day 12). The study lists 2 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT05559905, which also lists 1 linked publication.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 18 Jul 2025.