NCT05312892 · Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Sympathetic Mechanisms in Obesity-Crossover Design
What this study is about
We will study obese hypertensive subjects in a randomly assigned, crossover study to determine if two weeks sympathetic blockade improves endogenous glucose production. Subjects will be studied on 3 different occasions after two weeks of receiving either placebo, amlodipine (vasodilator treatment group$1) or moxonidine (study treatment group$1).
View original scientific description
We will study obese hypertensive subjects in a randomized, crossover study to determine if two weeks sympathetic blockade improves endogenous glucose production. Subjects will be studied on 3 different occasions after two weeks of receiving either placebo, amlodipine (vasodilator arm) or moxonidine (study arm). The order of the studies will be determined using computer-generated randomization. Patients will be blinded as to which treatment they are receiving on each day. An investigator blinded to the treatment assignment will perform the analysis of the data.
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 of all races between 18 and 65 years of age
- Hypertension defined by two or more properly measured seated blood pressure readings \>130/85 mmHg or currently on antihypertensive medication.
- Obesity will be defined as having a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2.
- Able and willing to provide informed consent.
Exclusion criteria
- Pregnancy or breast feeding
- Current smokers or history of heavy smoking (\>2 packs/day)
- History of alcohol or drug abuse
- Previous allergic reaction to study medications
- Type I diabetes.
- Cardiovascular disease other than hypertension such as myocardial infarction within 6 months prior to enrollment, presence of angina pectoris, significant arrhythmia, congestive heart failure (LV hypertrophy acceptable), deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, second or third degree heart block, mitral valve stenosis, aortic stenosis, or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- History of serious cerebrovascular disease such as cerebral hemorrhage, stroke, or transient ischemic attack
- History or presence of immunological or hematological disorders
- Impaired renal function
- Treatment with chronic systemic glucocorticoid therapy (more than 7 consecutive days in 1 month)
- Treatment with any investigational drug in the 1 month preceding the study
- Inability to give, or withdraw, informed consent
- Other factors which in the investigator's opinion would prevent the subject from completing the protocol (i.e., clinically significant abnormalities on clinical, mental examination or laboratory testing or inability to comply with protocol, inability to find IV access)
Where
- Nashville, Tennessee
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 Feb 27, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations