FLIRT Study officially kicks off in Can Tho
In preparation for the implementation of the FLIRT study in Vietnam, a successful site initiation training program was held at Can Tho City Lung Hospital and the University of Sydney Vietnam Institute Office on May 27 and 29, 2025.
FLIRT is a phase 3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-center, and multinational clinical trial. The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a fluoroquinolone-containing regimen compared to a placebo-containing regimen in patients with isoniazid-resistant tuberculosis. Funded by the University of Sydney (Australia), the trial is coordinated in Vietnam by the University of Sydney Vietnam Institute and is approved for implementation in the country from 2024 to 2028.
The training program was carefully designed, consisting of in-person sessions focused on essential topics such as an overview of the study, implementation protocols, laboratory procedures, and investigational product management using the REDCap system for data collection and monitoring.
Dr.Hua Trung Tiep, Specialist Level II and Director of Can Tho City Tuberculosis and Lung Hospital
In his opening remarks, Dr. Hua Trung Tiep, Specialist Level II and Director of Can Tho City Tuberculosis and Lung Hospital—also the Principal Investigator at the study site—emphasized the significance of the FLIRT study. He highlighted its valuable contributions not only in advancing treatment options but also in establishing a structured screening process for early detection of isoniazid-resistant TB, thereby creating opportunities for targeted therapy from the outset.
Training at Sydney Vietnam Institute Office in Can Tho.
With strong commitment from the research team—including physicians, nurses, laboratory technicians, and pharmacists—the study is expected to meet recruitment targets at the site and generate meaningful results in the near future.