A Pilot Randomized Clinical Trial of Intranasal Oxytocin to Promote Weight Loss in Individuals With Hypothalamic Obesity

ABSTRACT: Abstract

Context

Hypothalamic obesity is a rare, treatment-resistant form of obesity. In preliminary studies, the hypothalamic hormone oxytocin (OXT) has shown promise as a potential weight loss therapy.

Objective

To determine whether 8 weeks of intranasal OXT (vs 8 weeks of placebo) promotes weight loss in children, adolescents, and young adults with hypothalamic obesity.

Methods

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover pilot trial (NCT02849743), conducted at an outpatient academic medical center, included patients aged 10 to 35 years with hypothalamic obesity from hypothalamic/pituitary tumors. Participants received intranasal OXT (Syntocinon, 40 USP units/mL, 4 IU/spray) vs excipient-matched placebo, 16 to 24 IU 3 times daily at mealtimes.

SUBMITTER:  

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10154909 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature