Pediatric Endocrine-Neuroendocrine-Sports Endocrine Research
Improving Health Through Research
In Conjunction with the Eating Disorders Clinical and Research Program (EDCRP) at Massachusetts General Hospital
POWER Study
Oxytocin as Neuroendocrine Therapy for Obesity in Youth
A study for 12-18 year old males and females that have obesity
Study Aim
The number of children with obesity has been increasing and is associated with medical complications. Earlier treatment reduces the likelihood of health problem in later life, but lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are not always effective alone. In previous studies, a naturally occurring hormone, oxytocin, was safe and effective in aiding weight loss in adults. This study is looking at whether similar effects can be seen in a younger population.
We are investigating whether or not this hormonal treatment aids weight loss in teenagers, the mechanisms by which weight changes may occur, and how oxytocin impacts cardiometabolic risk factors. The study involves 12 weeks of treatment with biweekly visits or phone calls, a post-treatment visit at 18 weeks, and post-treatment phone calls at 6 and 12 months.
Study Visits
Total Compensation up to $1700
Baseline, 8 Week, 12 Week Visits
Each split over 2 days
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History and physical exam with bloodwork
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Breakfast meals and metabolic energy expenditure assessments
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Questionnaires about hunger, diet, eating behaviors, and exercise
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Body composition scans via DXA and MRI
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MRI of the brain and liver
1, 4, and 18 Week Visits
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History and physical exam with bloodwork
2 Week, 6 Week, 10 Week, 6 Month, and
12 Month Phone Calls
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History and self-report weight
Study Coordinator:
Emma Howard
Nurse Practitioners:
Meghan Slattery, FNP
Sarah Smith, DNP
Co-Investigators:
Vibha Singhal, MD
Principal Investigators:
Elizabeth A. Lawson, MD
Madhu Misra, MD, MPH
Miriam Bredella, MD, MBA