Pentoxifylline (PTX) is a medicine used since 1984 to help with blood flow in the legs. Now, doctors want to see if it can help protect kidneys in people with diabetes. This study is being done in 40 VA hospitals across the U.S. to find out if PTX can stop kidney problems from getting worse and help people live longer.
Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is when kidneys get damaged because of diabetes. This can lead to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), where kidneys stop working. People might need dialysis, a treatment to clean the blood, or a kidney transplant if this happens. PTX might help reduce kidney damage and inflammation, which is the body's way of reacting to harm.
The study will last 5 years and involves 2 face-to-face visits, with other check-ins by phone. Blood tests will be needed. Participants will be given either PTX or a placebo (a pill with no medicine) but will continue normal care with their doctors. If successful, this study could help reduce the need for dialysis and improve life for Veterans with DKD.
- Study duration: 5 years, with 2 main visits.
- Must be a U.S. Veteran treated at a VA hospital.
- Participants will receive either PTX or a placebo.