NCT06665997 · University of Pennsylvania
Clinical and Biomarker Effects of Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate in Females With Sickle Cell Disease
(SCD Depo)
What this study is about
This research is being conducted to see if using an injectable contraception, Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (Depo-Provera), can reduce the pain experienced by women with sickle cell disease. Participants in this study will be adult women with sickle cell disease who regularly experience sickle cell pain.
View original scientific description
This research is being conducted to see if using an injectable contraception, Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (Depo-Provera), can reduce the pain experienced by women with sickle cell disease. Participants in this study will be adult women with sickle cell disease who regularly experience sickle cell pain. They will complete a 3-month "baseline "with no use of hormonal contraception, and then a 3-month follow-up after receiving an injection of Depo-Provera.
Interventions
DRUG
Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA)
150mg dose intramuscular administration of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) injectable suspension
Primary outcome measures
Frequency of acute vaso-occlusive episodes
Time frame: 6 months
The primary outcome is frequency of VOEs during each phase (baseline and intervention). A VOE is self-reported by the participant. Discrete pain episodes will be separated by at least 2 weeks from one other. During both the baseline and intervention study phases, participants will provide weekly reports via electronic survey of vaso-occlusive pain. VOE will be defined as self-reported typical SCD pain that interferes with usual daily activities or requires emergency care or hospitalization, with distinct episodes separated by at least 2 weeks without pain.
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
- Provision of signed and dated informed consent form 2. Female, aged 18-50 years old 3. Diagnosis of sickle cell disease (SS, SB0,SB+,SC) 4. Report of at least 1 vaso-occlusive pain episode per month on average in the previous 6 months 5. At least 1 and no more than 10 medical presentations (e.g. hospitalization, emergency room visit, outpatient infusion visit) for sickle cell-related pain during the past year 6. Willing to discontinue any hormonal contraception at the time of enrollment. Washout period of 1 month since last use of all hormonal contraception, and 4 months since most recent administration of depot medroxyprogesterone, is required prior to enrollment in the study. 7. Stable dose of hydroxyurea and other sickle cell-related medications for the past 6 months 8. Access to a device with text-messaging capability 9. Must be able to read and understand English 10. Willing to comply with study procedures
Exclusion criteria
- Chronic inflammatory condi
Where
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Collaborators
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), Emory University, 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 May 28, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations