Asthma Paid Research Study
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and Johns Hopkins are conducting a study in adults to better understand asthma in overweight individuals and how a common medication, metformin, may help improve asthma symptoms.
Fast Facts
Overweight individuals diagnosed with asthma who use a steroid inhaler
Adults 18+
Years Old
Compensation
Provided Up To $535
Conducted in
Houston, TX
Study Background
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and Johns Hopkins are conducting a study in adults to understand asthma, how it affects overweight individuals, and whether metformin can help improve symptoms.
Asthma, particularly when not well-controlled, can make breathing difficult, increase the risk of flare-ups, and reduce overall quality of life. Overweight individuals may experience more severe asthma symptoms and additional health challenges. This study aims to better understand how asthma affects overweight adults and whether metformin, a medication commonly used for diabetes, can help improve asthma symptoms, lung function, and overall health.
By participating in this study, we hope to learn more about safe and effective ways to manage asthma in overweight individuals. Ultimately, the findings from this research may lead to improved treatment strategies and a better quality of life for people living with asthma.
Study Background
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine and Johns Hopkins are conducting a study in adults to understand asthma, how it affects overweight individuals, and whether metformin can help improve symptoms.
Asthma, particularly when not well-controlled, can make breathing difficult, increase the risk of flare-ups, and reduce overall quality of life. Overweight individuals may experience more severe asthma symptoms and additional health challenges. This study aims to better understand how asthma affects overweight adults and whether metformin, a medication commonly used for diabetes, can help improve asthma symptoms, lung function, and overall health.
By participating in this study, we hope to learn more about safe and effective ways to manage asthma in overweight individuals. Ultimately, the findings from this research may lead to improved treatment strategies and a better quality of life for people living with asthma.
Additional Information
In this research study, we are trying to understand how asthma affects overweight individuals and whether a common medication called metformin, typically used for diabetes, can improve asthma symptoms. We aim to better understand the impact of asthma on lung function, inflammation in the body, and daily health experiences, and we will measure all of these. We also want to see whether metformin can help improve asthma control and reduce flare-ups. To do this, participants will take either metformin or a placebo daily for six months, and we will monitor their lung function, blood markers, and overall health through in-person visits and virtual check-ins.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Adults 18+
- Diagnosed with asthma
- Using a daily steroid inhaler for asthma symptoms
- Overweight (BMI ≥ 25)
- Asthma that is not well-controlled
Exclusion Criteria:
- Diabetes or taking a GLP-1 containing medication for weight loss (such as Ozempic, Saxenda, Wegovy, Zepbound)
- Currently smoking
- Other medical conditions that would prevent safe participation in the study
The study lasts six months and includes a combination of in-person visits and remote check-ins to monitor your health and asthma symptoms.
In-person visits: You will attend four main visits. The first is an enrollment visit to confirm eligibility and collect initial health information, including a blood draw. At the second visit, you will receive the study drug (either metformin or a placebo), and we will complete questionnaires and lung function tests. The third visit is at three months to refill your study drug and repeat assessments. The final visit is at six months to collect any remaining study drug and complete final assessments. During these visits, we will ask detailed questions about your asthma, measure your lung function, and draw blood to track metabolic health.
Remote check-ins: Between visits, you will have several brief telephone calls and virtual telemedicine sessions. During these check-ins, we will discuss how you are responding to the study drug, monitor your asthma symptoms, and answer any questions you may have about the study.
Participation in this study will help researchers learn whether metformin can improve asthma symptoms, reduce asthma flares, and support overall lung function in individuals who are overweight.
As a participant, you may receive up to $535.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.