NCT05042258 · Northwestern University
Using Dupilumab to Improve Circadian Function, Sleep and Pruritus in Children With Moderate/Severe Atopic Dermatitis
What this study is about
Single center, forward-looking, Open label study of sleep, pruritus and circadian function pre/post 12-weeks of dupilumab treatment in children 6-17 years old
View original scientific description
Single center, prospective, Open label study of sleep, pruritus and circadian function pre/post 12-weeks of dupilumab treatment in children 6-17 years old
Interventions
DRUG
Dupilumab
12 week dupilumab administration
Primary outcome measures
PROMIS (Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System) parent-proxy score
Time frame: 12 weeks
Improvement from baseline in PROMIS Parent-Proxy sleep disturbance score (short format 8-item) after 12 weeks post dupilumab initiation. The minimum value is "Never" and the maximum value is "Always". Higher scores mean worse outcomes.
PROMIS patient score
Time frame: 12 weeks
Improvement from baseline in PROMIS Patient-reported sleep disturbance score (short format 8-item) after 12 weeks post dupilumab initiation (in children ≥ 8 years old). The minimum value is "Never" and the maximum value is "Always". Higher scores mean worse outcomes.
Wake After Sleep Onset
Time frame: 12 weeks
Percentage of patients achieving clinically significant improvement in minutes of Wake After Sleep Onset from baseline to Week 12 on inpatient polysomnography (PSG).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Participants, 6-17 years old at time of enrollment.
- Moderate to severe chronic AD inadequately controlled by topical treatment, diagnosed according to Hanifin and Rajka criteria by a pediatric dermatologist or allergist.
- AD severity will be determined at baseline with Validated Investigator Global Assessment (vIGA) score of moderate (3) or severe (4).
- Patient assessed or parent-proxy (under 8 years old) PROMIS sleep disturbance T-score ≥60.
- Willing and able to comply with visits and study-related procedures.
- On stable regimens (consistent use 14 days before Day 1 of study enrollment) of inhaled corticosteroids, topical steroids, and antihistamines.
Exclusion criteria
- Poorly controlled asthma (Asthma Control Test ≤19).
- Self-reported sleep disturbance on 2 or more nights in the past 7 days due to allergic rhinitis.
- Use of concomitant medication that causes scratching.
- Major medical condition (such as cancer).
- Active condition that could affect sleep, such as obstructive sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, insomnia, narcolepsy, severe sleep disordered breathing, severe depression, COVID-19, or hives (urticaria).
- Having applied topical steroids within 7 days of first or second PSG (important for biomarkers assessment).
- Use of systemic immunosuppressant within 30 days of first PSG.
- Having showered or used moisturizers within 12 hours of first or second PSG.
- Unable to communicate in English (some PROMIS questionnaires not available in translation).
- Other contraindication to receiving dupilumab (such as history of allergic reaction to dupilumab or any of its components).
- Clinical blindness (circadian disturbing).
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
Collaborators
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations