The T3-HF Trial
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of orally administered Triiodothyronine (T3) for 24 weeks in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection (HFrEF)
IRAS ID
1013521
Contact name
Salman Razvi
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN11121053
Research summary
Background: Heart failure (HF) affects around one million people in the UK. The thyroid gland produces hormones, including Triiodothyronine (T3) which helps the heart to pump normally. Some people with HF have low levels of T3. Three small studies have shown that it is safe to give HF patients T3 supplements, and that T3 supplements may help the heart to pump better after 6 weeks. Aim: To compare the effect of T3 supplements with a placebo (dummy capsule) on exercise capacity, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and heart function over 24- weeks in people with HF. Research question: What is the effect of T3 supplements on exercise capacity in people with HF and low T3 levels? Participant population: 258 patients with moderate to severe HF with reduced ejection fraction and low blood T3 levels will be identified from 14 NHS hospitals. Treatment schedule: 10 mcg oral liothyronine sodium (a synthetic T3 supplement) or matched dummy capsule (placebo) taken twice daily for 24 weeks. Randomisation/enrolment procedures: Participants who provide their consent will have a blood test to measure their T3 levels. Participants with low T3 will be randomly allocated to receive either 10 mcg of oral liothyronine sodium or placebo in addition to their usual HF treatment. Participants will have an equal (50/50) chance of receiving either the oral liothyronine sodium or placebo. Methods: This trial is ‘blinded’ (the research team and participant group will not know which group they are in until the end of the trial). Exercise capacity (the distance walked in metres during a 6-minute walk test), HRQoL and HF questionnaires, and heart function (echocardiograms) will be measured at Baseline and after 24-weeks of treatment. We will compare the change in exercise capacity from Baseline to 24 weeks between the two groups. If T3 is found to improve exercise capacity in people with HF and low T3 we will plan a bigger trial to find out if T3 is effective for other HF patients.
REC name
Wales REC 1
REC reference
26/WA/0098
Date of REC Opinion
28 Apr 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion