Oxfordshire residents who participated in a clinical trial for a drug to treat chronic kidney disease (CKD) are “thrilled” it has been approved for use in the NHS.

Michael Pickard and John Crane welcomed the approval for empagliflozin, an agent that slows the advancement of CKD, which can ultimately result in kidney failure.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) confirmed its endorsement for the drug last December, drawing upon data from the EMPA-KIDNEY trial at the University of Oxford.

The National Institute for Health and Care (NIHR) supported the trial, which garnered participation from more than 6,600 people worldwide, including 1,133 UK residents and 68 from the University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in Oxford.

The study determined that a single daily dose of empagliflozin stops the progression of kidney issues or heart disease-related deaths among those suffering from chronic kidney disease.

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Empagliflozin is also prescribed to individuals suffering from type 2 diabetes or heart failure and functions by removing surplus sugar and salt via the kidneys to prevent organ deterioration.

Mr Pickard, 82, from Upper Brailes, who was diagnosed with reduced kidney function in 2019 following a routine blood test, joined the trial in November 2020.

Mr Pickard said: "I spoke about the study with my GP and he thought it was worth doing.

"I thought that if there’s some chance of this helping my condition, then it’s worth it."

The trial divided participants randomly between taking one daily tablet of empagliflozin or a placebo drug.

Mr Pickard, a grandfather of four, was prescribed empagliflozin by his GP following the trial's conclusion.

He said: "I was thrilled to hear that the drug is now available on the NHS for people with this condition and I’m pleased that I played a small part in making that happen."

Mr Crane, 76, from Long Hanborough, received a diagnosis in 2010 after a routine examination.

He said: "When you go in for a research study, and there's nothing particularly ‘wrong’ with you, it can be a good laugh.

"Studies like these can not only benefit yourself but can benefit other people too.

"If anyone is considering taking part in research, I’d say go for it."

Professor William Herrington, chief investigator at the University of Oxford, added: "Thanks to the commitment of the trial participants and our collaborators around the world, EMPA-KIDNEY has demonstrated clear results.

"This NICE guidance should greatly help implementation of these important findings into clinical practice for people living with chronic kidney disease."

To take part in future trials, visit the Be Part Of Research website.