The University of the Sunshine Coast Clinical Trials Centre will soon begin a trial of a potential new treatment for coeliac disease in people who have symptoms despite following a gluten-free diet.

The trial, to be hosted at three clinics on the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay and Brisbane, will determine if the investigational treatment can improve the symptoms of coeliac disease in people who have been diagnosed with the condition but continue to suffer after dietary changes.

Dr Michael Harrison, principal investigator overseeing the trial at the UniSC Clinical Trials at Sippy Downs, said, “People diagnosed with coeliac disease may experience moderate to severe symptoms like diarrhoea, abdominal pain, bloating or nausea, despite the fact that they’re following a gluten-free diet.

“It is hoped that the investigational treatment will improve the symptoms of coeliac disease. We’re looking forward to seeing better options for this condition and we hope that this treatment proves to be effective,” he said.

The trial is looking for volunteers aged 18 to 80 years old who have been diagnosed with coeliac disease and are still experiencing symptoms despite following a gluten-free diet.

Clinical Research Coordinator Laura Donnelly said participants would need to commit to up to nine clinic visits over seven months.

“They will receive the investigational treatment or a placebo in the form of a capsule to be taken orally three times daily, depending on which treatment group they are in,” she said.

Participants will undergo thorough medical examination including physical examination, blood tests and covid screening. They will need to complete questionnaires and fill in an eDiary for the duration of the trial.

Those interested in volunteering can find more information at www.usc.edu.au/trials