HANSON

Hypertonic saline nasal spray for respiratory tract infections - a cluster-randomised controlled trial in general practice

01/04/2026 to 30/09/2030

Respiratory tract infections occur frequently especially during the winter season. Up to 10% of the population is affected, which also leads to a significant burden on general practices. In addition to absence of employees due to illness, respiratory tract infections are also the most common cause for the prescription of antibiotics.
The HANSON study investigates whether the early use of a hypertonic saline solution as a nasal spray can shorten the duration and severity of illness in adults with respiratory tract infections.
The cluster-randomized controlled trial in general practice is being conducted in collaboration with three research practice networks: BayFoNet (Würzburg, Erlangen, TU and LMU Munich, Augsburg, Regensburg), FoPraNet-BW (Tübingen, Ulm, and Freiburg), and RESPonsE (Berlin, Jena). Furthermore, two additional Institutes of General Practice at the Universities of Marburg and Kiel, along with their respective research practice networks, are involved. The project is led by the Institute of General Practice at the University Hospital of Würzburg.
A total of 200 general practices across Germany are to be recruited. 3,840 patients will be included and followed for twelve months. The project, funded by the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology, and Space, began on April 1, 2026.