A groundbreaking clinical trial focusing on severe acute Diquat poisoning is set to explore the efficacy of Continuous Veno-Venous Hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF). Sponsored by The Affiliated Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, this study introduces accelerated hemodiafiltration technology that may reshape emergency treatment practices for this life-threatening condition. The trial, titled ‘Accelerated HEmodiafiltration in Severe Acute Diquat (AHEAD) Poisoning,’ is not yet recruiting as of November 2025.
What changed?
On November 18, 2025, plans for an important clinical trial were formally disclosed. Researchers aim to determine whether Continuous Veno-Venous Hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) can significantly reduce the toxic effects of Diquat poisoning. This introduces a targeted medical approach using hemodiafiltration, a technology designed to rapidly eliminate toxic substances from the bloodstream.
The trial focuses exclusively on acute cases of Diquat poisoning, a rare yet dangerous toxicology emergency linked to ingestion of the bipyridyl herbicide Diquat. This marks a step forward in developing device-based intervention solutions for poison control in critical care.
What does the treatment involve?
Continuous Veno-Venous Hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) is an advanced extracorporeal therapy where a special filtration device removes toxins and balances electrolytes in patients experiencing acute poisoning or organ failure. The process uses both diffusion and convection, enabling rapid clearance of harmful substances such as Diquat.
This procedure is often employed in critical care, dealing with conditions including sepsis, multi-organ dysfunction, and acute renal injury. Applying CVVHDF to Diquat poisoning is a novel approach, moving beyond symptomatic management toward a targeted toxic elimination strategy.
Manufacturer claims or device specifications for this treatment remain under research protocols. Results could demonstrate performance, safety, and relevance for regulatory decisions in extracorporeal detoxification therapies.
Why is this research significant?
Diquat poisoning often leads to kidney failure, oxidative stress, and high mortality rates, especially in cases of delayed treatment presentation. Traditional therapeutic options, such as simple renal dialysis, are often inadequate for effectively clearing high-concentration toxins.
The AHEAD study could redefine emergency care protocols for poisoning scenarios by providing regulated, device-based detoxification options. Insights from this trial may inform European and international medical device regulation frameworks, especially regarding extracorporeal blood purification systems.
Furthermore, this aligns with global trends in applying innovative technologies to critical care. Previous studies have validated similar devices for other toxins, and this regulatory research may expand clinical applicability to broader toxicological contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the sponsor hospital?
The Affiliated Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School.
2. Is the trial currently recruiting participants?
No, recruitment for this study has not yet started as of November 2025.
3. What is Continuous Veno-Venous Hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF)?
CVVHDF is a filtration technique designed to remove toxins and improve electrolyte balance in critical care patients.
4. What is Diquat poisoning?
Diquat poisoning occurs when the bipyridyl herbicide Diquat is ingested, leading to severe organ toxicity and life-threatening complications.
Conclusion
The AHEAD study could represent a major advance in toxicology treatment by applying regulated device-based filtration to mitigate Diquat poisoning risks. Clinical and regulatory teams should monitor trial developments closely for future implementation potential, especially in emergency care settings.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for regulatory and clinical professionals. It is not legal or clinical advice.
Full Announcement
For full information about the announcement, see the link below.
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07234383?term=medical+device