This is a Phase III clinical study to investigate the efficacy and safety of FP-1201-lyo (recombinant human interferon [IFN] beta-1a) compared to placebo in patients diagnosed with moderate or severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Primary objective is to demonstrate the efficacy of FP-1201-lyo in improving the clinical course and outcome based on survival and need for mechanical ventilation. Currently there are no approved drugs for treating moderate or severe ARDS patients.~FP-1201-lyo is a lyophilised powder form of recombinant human IFN beta-1a reconstituted in water for injection and is administered intravenously.~Recombinant human IFN beta-1a is an approved treatment for patients for other indication and its safety profile in such patients is well characterised.
In this study effectiveness and safety of a new drug FP-1201-lyo (recombinant human interferon beta-1a) is compared to placebo. Investigation is conducted with patients who have acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The new drug is expected to reduce the time which a patient need to be on the ventilator and improve patient's chances of survival. Currently there are no approved drugs for treating moderate or severe ARDS patients.