Autoimmune & Rheumatology Clinical Trials Update: Week 16, 2026

Published April 17, 2026 — 5 trials covered

By Victor Lafforgue, Founder of TrialsAlert

Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Moderate to Severe Rheumatoid Arthritis

This Phase 3 study, sponsored by SetPoint Medical Corporation, explores using an implanted device to stimulate the vagus nerve in adults with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. For patients who have not found relief from current medications, this approach could offer a new option to reduce symptoms by influencing the body's inflammation response. The trial is complete with results available and was mainly conducted in the United States.

Antibiotic Prophylaxis After Simple Tooth Extraction in Immunosuppressed Patients With Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases

Sponsored by the University of Sao Paulo General Hospital, this Phase 4 trial aims to find out if a single dose of amoxicillin before a simple tooth extraction can prevent infections in immunosuppressed patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases. If the study shows this approach is effective, it could lead to safer dental care guidelines that avoid unnecessary antibiotic use. The trial is preparing to start and plans to enroll 352 participants.

Disulfiram in Rheumatoid Arthritis

This Phase 2 study by the University of Oklahoma is testing disulfiram, a pill, for safety and its effects in adults with rheumatoid arthritis and obesity who continue to have active symptoms despite current treatments. If successful, this could be a new way to reduce inflammation and improve disease control. The trial is recruiting adults in the United States who are on stable disease-modifying drugs and lasts 12 weeks.

Ketogenic and Carnivore (Lion) Diets for Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Rheumatoid Arthritis

The Fuller Research Foundation is conducting a trial to see if ketogenic and carnivore diets can help adults with rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease feel better and improve their quality of life. These diets focus on low carbohydrates and high protein intake and may reduce symptoms in these chronic conditions. The study is currently recruiting in the United States and will follow participants for 24 weeks.

Lupus Landmark Study: A Prospective Registry and Biorepository

This ongoing study by the Lupus Research Alliance collects detailed clinical and biological information from people with systemic lupus erythematosus and related conditions. By building a large database of patient data, researchers hope to uncover new insights about lupus and improve future treatments. The study is actively recruiting participants across the United States and Canada.

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