NCT06299891 · Seattle Children's Hospital
Efficacy and Safety of Phentermine/Topiramate in Youth With Hypothalamic Obesity
What this study is about
Hypothalamic obesity (HO) refers to the substantial weight gain that often complicates hypothalamic brain tumors. Children with this treatment-recalcitrant form of obesity have excess rates of metabolic sequelae compared to otherwise healthy children with similar obesity, and later experience excess mortality related to cardiometabolic disease.
View original scientific description
Hypothalamic obesity (HO) refers to the substantial weight gain that often complicates hypothalamic brain tumors. Children with this treatment-recalcitrant form of obesity have excess rates of metabolic sequelae compared to otherwise healthy children with similar obesity, and later experience excess mortality related to cardiometabolic disease.
Interventions
DRUG
Phentermine / Topiramate Extended Release Oral Capsule [Qsymia]
To assess safety and maximum tolerated dose as well as efficacy on weight loss of Phentermine/Topiramate in individuals with hypothalamic obesity.
OTHER
Placebo
To assess safety and maximum tolerated dose as well as efficacy on weight loss of placebo treatment in individuals with hypothalamic obesity.
Primary outcome measures
Treatment-emergent adverse events
Time frame: From baseline to completion of week 28
Incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events including any during withdrawal in study drug vs. placebo.
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
- Males and Females; Ages 6-28 years (inclusive) 2. History of rapid weight gain related to tumor onset or treatment, as assessed by an experienced endocrinologist (for example, change in BMI z-score \> 0.2 and/or BMI +5% during the first 6 months following tumor treatment) 3. Obesity (BMI \> 95th%ile for age/sex using CDC 2000 reference for under 18; BMI \> 30 kg/m2 for 18+ years) 4. Recent evidence of hypothalamic injury by brain MRI with central review; \>6 months status-post definitive therapy (surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation); no major operations/surgeries planned during the study period. 5. Stable on pituitary replacement\
- and/or appetite-modulating medications (including stimulants) for at least 2 months. \*Adjustments of less than 25% (\<25%) are permitted to hydrocortisone, growth hormone or thyroid hormone. Sex steroids and DDAVP are exempt. 6. Post-menarchal females must use a highly effective form of contraception, unless hypogonadotropic hypogona
Where
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Seattle, Washington
Collaborators
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
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 Jul 28, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations