Czech firm approved for hydrogen Alzheimer’s trial

Czech company H₂ Medical Technologies, a subsidiary of H₂ Global Group, has received official approval from the State Institute for Drug Control (SÚKL) to begin a clinical study on molecular hydrogen inhalation therapy for patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), an early stage of Alzheimer’s disease.

The authorisation marks Europe’s first fully approved clinical trial investigating non-invasive hydrogen inhalation as a potential neuroprotective therapy. Neuroprotective treatments aim to protect brain cells from damage and slow disease progression.

The project builds on pioneering research by Professor Shigeo Ohta, co-founder of H₂ Global Group and regarded as a founding figure in therapeutic hydrogen medicine. Professor Ohta personally transferred his European patent (EP 3701956 B1), titled “Prophylactic or Therapeutic Agent for Dementia,” to the group.

“Launching a clinical study that directly builds on Professor Ohta’s patent is both an honour and a responsibility,” said PharmDr Milan Krajíček, co-founder of H₂ Global Group. “This milestone proves that Czech innovation and research have truly global relevance.”

The six-month study, due to begin in January 2026, will be carried out in collaboration with Professor David Školoudík, one of the Czech Republic’s leading neurologists. The project aims to achieve what the company says will be the world’s first regulatory registration of a medical device using molecular hydrogen.

“While several antibody-based drugs have been approved to slow Alzheimer’s progression, there is still no widely available, safe and effective non-invasive treatment,” said David Maršálek, founder and chief executive of H₂ Global Group. “Our goal is to offer patients and physicians a gentle, accessible and scientifically validated solution.”

H₂ Global Group is a European innovation group connecting research, development, manufacturing and practical application of molecular hydrogen technologies across healthcare, wellness, sports, cosmetics and veterinary sectors. Under the leadership of David Maršálek, the group has built a vertically integrated ecosystem from research and product development through to manufacturing and global distribution. The company reports an estimated valuation exceeding US$77m, with an expanding patent portfolio and international partnerships.