Oxytocin Trial in Prader-Willi Syndrome

Summary

Individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) have been found to have a deficit of oxytocin-producing neurons and decreased oxytocin receptor gene function, so the purpose of this study is to determine if oxytocin (OT) administration will improve some of the aspects of Prader-Willi syndrome that are particularly troublesome for children and their families (the insatiable appetite and social behaviors). The research questions are: 1. Does intranasal oxytocin cause any side effects in children with PWS? 2. Does intranasal oxytocin administration alter appetite or behaviors in PWS?

Timeline

Start

2015-03

Primary completion

2015-08

Completion

2015-08

Publications

• Background Tauber M, Mantoulan C, Copet P, Jauregui J, Demeer G, Diene G, Roge B, Laurier V, Ehlinger V, Arnaud C, Molinas C, Thuilleaux D. Oxytocin may be useful to increase trust in others and decrease disruptive behaviours in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome: a randomised placebo-controlled trial in 24 patients. Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2011 Jun 24;6:47. doi: 10.1186/1750-1172-6-47.

Drugs

Indications