Peripartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM) Clinical Trials

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a life-threatening condition defined as heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (typically LVEF below 45%) developing in the last month of pregnancy or within 5 months after delivery, in the absence of another identifiable cause. The pathophysiology involves multiple mechanisms including a 16-kDa prolactin fragment that is cardiotoxic, autoimmune processes involving beta-1 adrenergic receptor autoantibodies, and genetic susceptibility (particularly TTN gene variants). The disease ranges from mild heart failure that resolves completely to severe cardiomyopathy requiring mechanical circulatory support or heart transplantation.

The most common symptoms of Peripartum Cardiomyopathy include Shortness of breath, especially when lying flat or with exertion, Fatigue and weakness beyond normal pregnancy tiredness, Swelling in feet, ankles, and legs, Rapid heartbeat or palpitations, Chest discomfort or pressure, among others. About 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 4,000 pregnancies in the U.S.; significantly more common in women of African descent. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may vary between individuals.

Trial Friend lists all active clinical trials for Peripartum Cardiomyopathy from ClinicalTrials.gov, with eligibility criteria translated into plain English. Patients can filter by trial phase and recruitment status, search by location, and use the Match Me tool to score trials against their profile. Peripartum cardiomyopathy research has uncovered specific autoimmune mechanisms that offer new treatment targets. Biohaven's BHV-1600 is designed specifically for PPCM.

As of October 21, 2026, no current FDA drug label names Peripartum Cardiomyopathy as a condition the drug treats.

The exact cause of Peripartum Cardiomyopathy is not fully understood. It is not caused by a single gene; inherited variants raise risk, and immune, environmental or other triggers are thought to set it off. Diagnosed by exclusion, but now considered part of the dilated cardiomyopathy spectrum, so DCM gene testing is offered when there is a family history. About 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 4,000 pregnancies in the U.S.; significantly more common in women of African descent. Research is ongoing to better understand the disease mechanism.

No single gene test diagnoses Peripartum Cardiomyopathy. The diagnosis rests on clinical findings and laboratory or imaging results; genetic variants shift risk rather than cause the disease. Diagnosed by exclusion, but now considered part of the dilated cardiomyopathy spectrum, so DCM gene testing is offered when there is a family history.

Some trials collect genetic samples for research or check specific risk markers. The Genetic Testing section of this page shows any tests listed in the NIH Genetic Testing Registry, which for this condition are usually research or risk-marker tests rather than diagnostic ones.

Eligibility for Peripartum Cardiomyopathy clinical trials depends on factors like age, diagnosis, treatment history, and overall health. Each trial sets its own inclusion and exclusion criteria. Trial Friend translates these requirements from medical language into plain English so patients can review them more easily. The Match Me tool can score your profile against active trials to help identify studies that may be a fit.

Participating in a Peripartum Cardiomyopathy clinical trial typically involves scheduled visits, medical tests, and close monitoring by a research team. Depending on the study phase, you may receive an investigational treatment, a placebo, or the current standard of care. Trials may last from a few weeks to several years. Study participation is voluntary, and you can withdraw at any time.