New research offers hope for IPF

Clinical trials are an important step in developing better treatments for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Here, we share an overview of a recent 12 week study of a new potential oral medication, including how the trial was carried out, what the early results showed and what happens next.

Overview of the IPF clinical trial

A recent 12 week clinical trial tested a new oral treatment called GRI-0621 in people with IPF. The study found that the treatment was safe and well tolerated, with no serious side effects linked to the drug, even when taken alongside current approved IPF medicines.

How the study was carried out

The trial involved 35 people with IPF across several countries. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either GRI-0621 or a placebo (a dummy treatment), and most continued taking their usual IPF medication. Researchers closely monitored safety, blood tests linked to lung scarring, and breathing tests over the 12 week period.

What the results showed

Preliminary blood tests and lung function suggested that GRI-0621 may support lung repair, but it is important to emphasise that this early phase study was designed to assess the safety of the drug. It will take a much larger study to see if the medication works to halt or reverse lung fibrosis.

What this means for patients and families

These early results suggest that GRI-0621 is safe to go into much larger studies to assess the efficacy of this medication.  The hope is that GRI-0621 may not only slow IPF, but may also help protect and repair lung tissue – however, a much larger, later phase study is needed before this treatment becomes widely available. This study phase is being planned at the moment and will hopefully be recruiting in 2026-2027. Watch this space.

Learn more about the study

For more information about this Phase 2a study:

• Visit ClinicalTrials.gov
• Read the GRI Bio press release:
  https://gribio.com/gri-bio-announces-positive-topline-data-from-its-phase-2a-study-in-idiopathic-pulmonary-fibrosis-ipf/

 

[Posted December 2025]