Phase 2b trial for IPF cough reports positive topline results

6
June 2025

Topline results from a Phase 2b clinical trial are reporting positive results and highlights the importance of partnerships between researchers and patient groups such as APF.

This week Trevi Therapeutics  trial, that looks at Haduvio™ (oral nalbuphine ER) for chronic cough in people living with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), revealed promising initial findings with the full results to be announced in due course

The CORAL trial has been designed to test a new drug, Haduvio™ (oral nalbuphine ER), in 165 people to reduce chronic cough and marks an important step toward developing a therapy for one of the most burdensome symptoms faced by most people with IPF. Chronic cough often leads to social isolation, disrupted sleep, and a reduced quality of life.  

The CORAL trial tested the drug across multiple doses and showed encouraging reductions in the frequency of the cough over a 24-hour period. Dropout rates were similar between those taking the drug and those taking a placebo. This is the first study in this area to reach such a milestone in the initial stages of clinical research. The pharmaceutical company are now looking forward to the next stage of research for a phase 3 clinical trial, testing the drug in a greater number of people to understand more about its effects. To find out more about the CORAL study, take a look at the Study Finder Listing.

However, behind this scientific step forward lies a story of collaboration and patient empowerment, driven by our ongoing support for recruitment efforts in the UK. Trials like CORAL don’t succeed without patients. That’s where APF steps in. As a leading UK charity supporting people living with PF, we play a vital role in bridging the gap between researchers and the PF community.  

Bradley Price, Director of Policy, Research and Involvement said:

Recruitment is often one of the biggest challenges in PF research. People want to take part, but they don’t always know where to start. That’s why our platform exists, to inform, connect, and empower anyone affected by PF to see if there are opportunities available to them.

Through our Research Study Finder, we actively raise awareness of different research opportunities available to our community and provide easy-to-understand information about research results.  It is a central hub to explore ongoing studies, learn about eligibility and consider taking part with confidence.

This breakthrough serves as a reminder that behind every promising treatment is a community working together - patients, researchers, clinicians, and charities like Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis. Each playing a crucial part in the journey to finding better and more effective treatment options.

If you want to find out more about research taking place in the UK, take a look at our Study Finder.  

Speak to your healthcare team to see what research opportunities you may be eligible to take part in.