Trial Outcomes & Findings for Intranasal Oxytocin vs. Placebo for the Treatment of Hyperphagia in Prader-Willi Syndrome (NCT NCT03197662)

NCT ID: NCT03197662

Last Updated: 2025-02-07

Results Overview

Change in efficacy of peptide IN-OXT as measured by changes in hyperphagia from baseline will be assessed using the Hyperphagia Questionnaire for Clinical Trials (HQ-CT). HQ-CT is a caregiver-rated assessment comprised of 9-items that measures the frequency and intensity of hyperphagic behaviors, over the preceding two weeks, in participants with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). The HQ-CT total score is created by summing the 9 item-level responses (ranging from 0 to 4) for a possible range of 0-36 with higher scores indicate more extreme hyperphagia. For purposes of this outcome measure, negative scores represent a decrease in hyperphagia from baseline and positive scores represent an increase in hyperphagia from baseline.

Recruitment status

COMPLETED

Study phase

PHASE2

Target enrollment

32 participants

Primary outcome timeframe

From Randomization at Baseline until Endpoint at Week 8 (Change over 8 weeks)

Results posted on

2025-02-07

Participant Flow

Eight (8) study participants who consented were not enrolled as they did not meet inclusion/exclusion criteria (screen failures) or withdrew prior to randomization into the study.

Participant milestones

Participant milestones
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD ("quaque die" or once a day) and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Overall Study
STARTED
15
17
Overall Study
COMPLETED
15
15
Overall Study
NOT COMPLETED
0
2

Reasons for withdrawal

Reasons for withdrawal
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD ("quaque die" or once a day) and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Overall Study
Withdrawn by family
0
2

Baseline Characteristics

Data was missing or unable to be collected from 2 participants in the matched Placebo arm including 1 participant who withdrew from the study following randomization.

Baseline characteristics by cohort

Baseline characteristics by cohort
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=15 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=17 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Total
n=32 Participants
Total of all reporting groups
Age, Customized
5-6 years old
2 Participants
n=15 Participants
5 Participants
n=17 Participants
7 Participants
n=32 Participants
Age, Customized
7-12 years old
12 Participants
n=15 Participants
10 Participants
n=17 Participants
22 Participants
n=32 Participants
Age, Customized
13-18 years old
1 Participants
n=15 Participants
2 Participants
n=17 Participants
3 Participants
n=32 Participants
Sex: Female, Male
Female
6 Participants
n=15 Participants
8 Participants
n=17 Participants
14 Participants
n=32 Participants
Sex: Female, Male
Male
9 Participants
n=15 Participants
9 Participants
n=17 Participants
18 Participants
n=32 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
American Indian/Alaskan Native
0 Participants
n=15 Participants
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=32 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Asian
0 Participants
n=15 Participants
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=32 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Black/African American
0 Participants
n=15 Participants
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=32 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander
0 Participants
n=15 Participants
0 Participants
n=17 Participants
0 Participants
n=32 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
White
12 Participants
n=15 Participants
13 Participants
n=17 Participants
25 Participants
n=32 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Multiracial
2 Participants
n=15 Participants
3 Participants
n=17 Participants
5 Participants
n=32 Participants
Race/Ethnicity, Customized
Unknown
1 Participants
n=15 Participants
1 Participants
n=17 Participants
2 Participants
n=32 Participants
Region of Enrollment
United States
15 participants
n=15 Participants
17 participants
n=17 Participants
32 participants
n=32 Participants
Height
135.6 centimeters
STANDARD_DEVIATION 16.3 • n=15 Participants • Data was missing or unable to be collected from 2 participants in the matched Placebo arm including 1 participant who withdrew from the study following randomization.
130.4 centimeters
STANDARD_DEVIATION 18.9 • n=15 Participants • Data was missing or unable to be collected from 2 participants in the matched Placebo arm including 1 participant who withdrew from the study following randomization.
133.0 centimeters
STANDARD_DEVIATION 17.6 • n=30 Participants • Data was missing or unable to be collected from 2 participants in the matched Placebo arm including 1 participant who withdrew from the study following randomization.
Body Weight
40.8 kilograms
STANDARD_DEVIATION 17.9 • n=15 Participants • Data was unable to be collected from 1 participant in the matched Placebo arm who withdrew from the study following randomization.
45.2 kilograms
STANDARD_DEVIATION 34.9 • n=16 Participants • Data was unable to be collected from 1 participant in the matched Placebo arm who withdrew from the study following randomization.
43.1 kilograms
STANDARD_DEVIATION 26.9 • n=31 Participants • Data was unable to be collected from 1 participant in the matched Placebo arm who withdrew from the study following randomization.
Body Composition
20.6 percentage of fat
n=12 Participants • Data was missing or unable to be collected from 3 participants the Intranasal Oxytocin arm and 7 participants in the matched Placebo arm including 1 participant who withdrew from the study following randomization.
27.0 percentage of fat
n=10 Participants • Data was missing or unable to be collected from 3 participants the Intranasal Oxytocin arm and 7 participants in the matched Placebo arm including 1 participant who withdrew from the study following randomization.
23.5 percentage of fat
n=22 Participants • Data was missing or unable to be collected from 3 participants the Intranasal Oxytocin arm and 7 participants in the matched Placebo arm including 1 participant who withdrew from the study following randomization.
Body Mass Index (BMI)
20.2 kg/m^2
n=14 Participants • Data was missing or unable to be collected from 1 participant in the Intranasal Oxytocin arm and 1 participant in the matched Placebo arm who withdrew from the study following randomization.
18.8 kg/m^2
n=16 Participants • Data was missing or unable to be collected from 1 participant in the Intranasal Oxytocin arm and 1 participant in the matched Placebo arm who withdrew from the study following randomization.
19.5 kg/m^2
n=30 Participants • Data was missing or unable to be collected from 1 participant in the Intranasal Oxytocin arm and 1 participant in the matched Placebo arm who withdrew from the study following randomization.

PRIMARY outcome

Timeframe: From Randomization at Baseline until Endpoint at Week 8 (Change over 8 weeks)

Population: Data was unable to be collected from 2 participants in the matched Placebo study arm who withdrew from the study.

Change in efficacy of peptide IN-OXT as measured by changes in hyperphagia from baseline will be assessed using the Hyperphagia Questionnaire for Clinical Trials (HQ-CT). HQ-CT is a caregiver-rated assessment comprised of 9-items that measures the frequency and intensity of hyperphagic behaviors, over the preceding two weeks, in participants with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). The HQ-CT total score is created by summing the 9 item-level responses (ranging from 0 to 4) for a possible range of 0-36 with higher scores indicate more extreme hyperphagia. For purposes of this outcome measure, negative scores represent a decrease in hyperphagia from baseline and positive scores represent an increase in hyperphagia from baseline.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=15 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=15 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Change in Efficacy of Peptide Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
-6.08 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 5.65
-6.64 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 5.05

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From Randomization at Baseline until Endpoint at Week 8 (Change over 8 weeks)

Population: Data was unable to be collected from 2 participants in the matched Placebo study arm who withdrew from the study.

Change in Repetitive Behavior from baseline was determined using the Repetitive Behavior Scale Revised (RBS-R) score. The RBS-R is a 44-item form used to measure the full spectrum of repetitive behavior of participants. The child's parent will choose a score that describes how much of a problem the behavior has been over the last month on a 4-point scale ranging from 0 ("Behavior does not occur") to 3 ("Behavior occurs and is severe problem"). The final question asks participants to "lump together" all behaviors described in the RBS-R, and provide a rating (0-100) for how much of a problem these repetitive behaviors are overall: 1 ("Not a problem at all") to 100 ("As bad as you can imagine"). For purposes of this outcome, a change in group mean score from baseline is summarized. A negative score is indicative of a decrease in the frequency and severity of behavioral problems; whereas, a positive score is indicative of an increase in the frequency and severity of behavioral problems.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=15 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=15 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Change in Repetitive Behavior
-13.2 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 14.4
-8.53 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 8.89

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From Randomization at Baseline until Endpoint at Week 8 (Change over 8 weeks)

Population: Data was unable to be collected from 2 participants in the matched Placebo study arm who withdrew from the study.

Change in Rigid Behavior from baseline was assessed using the Montefiore-Einstein Rigidity Scale-Revised-Prader-Willi Syndrome (MERS-R-PWS). The MERS-R-PWS is designed to assess 3 domains of rigid behavior in children with PWS: 1. Behavioral Rigidity (e.g., insistence on sameness, things must be done his/her way, etc.) 2. Cognitive Rigidity (e.g., special interests, inflexible adherence to rules, etc.) 3. Protest (in response to deviation from rigidity (e.g., verbal objection, tantrum, physical aggression). Four items are rated on a 5-point scale ranging from 0 ("No/None") to 4 ("Extreme/Extremely difficult") for each of the 3 domains. The domains are added yielding a possible Total Domain Score which could range from 0-48. For purposes of this outcome measure, a change in group mean score from baseline is summarized. A negative score is indicative of a decrease in rigid behaviors from baseline; whereas, a positive score is indicative of an increase in rigid behavior from baseline.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=15 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=15 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Change in Rigid Behavior
-8.43 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 5.15
-11.2 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 7.86

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From Randomization at Baseline until Endpoint at Week 8 (Change over 8 weeks)

Population: Data was missing or unable to be collected from 3 participants in the matched Placebo study arm (including the 2 participants who withdrew from the study).

Change in body weight from baseline was determined by obtaining the participant's body weight, in kilograms, using a regularly calibrated scale. Change in body weights from baseline are summarized by study arm using basic descriptive statistics. A negative result indicates a decrease in body weight from baseline and may be associated with improved health-related outcomes including a decrease in hyperphagia.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=15 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=14 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Change in Body Weight
0.585 kilograms
Standard Deviation 0.709
-0.0669 kilograms
Standard Deviation 2.14

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: 8 weeks

Population: Data was missing or unable to be collected from 4 participants in the IN-OXT study arm and 8 participants in the matched Placebo study arm (including the 2 participants who withdrew from the study).

Body composition, in particular fat mass, was assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). BIA was conducted with equipment and oversight provided by the Einstein-Mount Sinai Diabetes Research Center. The equipment measured resistance in ohms which represents the resistance to a small alternating current passing through the body. These values are converted to body fat percentages using built-in software, after calibrating for variables, for purposes of reporting. Percentages are summarized by study arm using basic descriptive statistics.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=11 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=9 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Body Composition
23.5 percentage of fat
Interval 15.0 to 53.7
24.3 percentage of fat
Interval 18.2 to 43.4

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From Randomization at Baseline until Endpoint at Week 8 (Change over 8 weeks)

Population: Data was missing or unable to be collected from 1 participant in the IN-OXT arm and 3 participants in the matched Placebo study arm (including the 2 participants who withdrew from the study).

Change in BMI from baseline will be calculated by dividing the participant's weight in kilograms by their height in meters squared (kg/m\^2). Change in mean BMI from baseline will summarized and reported using basic descriptive statistics. A negative BMI score may be indicative of a decrease in hyperphagia from baseline; whereas, a positive BMI score may be indicative of an increase in hyperphagia when compared to baseline.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=14 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=14 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Change in Body Mass Index (BMI)
0.229 kg/m2
Standard Deviation 1.26
-0.357 kg/m2
Standard Deviation 0.911

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From Randomization at Baseline until Endpoint at Week 8 (Change over 8 weeks)

Population: Data was missing or unable to be collected from 1 participant in the IN-OXT arm and 3 participants in the matched Placebo study arm (including the 2 participants who withdrew from the study).

Change in QOL/Caregiver burden was assessed using the 7-item Physical Health domain subscale of the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. The questionnaire was completed by the parent/caregiver and quantified the burden placed on the caregiver/family by the PWS disorder. Each item of the Physical Health domain was scored on a 5-point ordinal scale ranging from 1-5, for an overall possible raw scoring range of 7-35. A mean overall Physical Health score was calculated by summing the scores from the seven items (response values for 2 of the items are inversely-coded) and dividing by the total # of questions (7) for an algebraic mean. A transformed scale score was obtained by subtracting 7 (lowest possible score) from the raw score and dividing by 28 (possible raw score range). For purposes of this outcome measure change from baseline was reported. Increases in Physical Health scores from baseline were associated with higher physical health QOL and reduced caregiver physical burden.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=14 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=14 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Change in Quality of Life (QOL) and Caregiver Burden as Determined by the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) Questionnaire: Domain 1 (Physical Health)
-0.0714 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.89
-0.929 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 3.47

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From Randomization at Baseline until Endpoint at Week 8 (Change over 8 weeks)

Population: Data was missing or unable to be collected from 1 participant in the IN-OXT arm and 3 participants in the matched Placebo study arm (including the 2 participants who withdrew from the study).

Change in QOL/caregiver burden was assessed using the abbreviated WHOQOL-BREF. The WHOQOL-BREF measures 4 broad domains: Physical Health, Health, Social Relationships, and Environment. The questionnaire was completed by the parent/caregiver quantified the burden placed on the caregiver/family by the PWS disorder. For the Psychological Health domain (6 questions), responses were assigned to corresponding predefined scores ranging from 1-5 points. A mean overall Psychological Health score was calculated by summing the scores from 5 of the questions (#s 5, 6, 7, 11, and 19) and inverting the response value from Question #26 and adding it to the sum of the other 5 scores and dividing by the total number of questions (6). This result was multiplied by 4 to get a final Psychological Health domain score. Raw scoring ranges from 6-30; however, for purposes of this outcome measure change from baseline was reported. Positive values were associated with higher QOL and reduced caregiver burden.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=14 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=14 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Change in Quality of Life (QOL) and Caregiver Burden as Determined by the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) Questionnaire - Domain 2 (Psychological Health)
-0.500 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 1.99
-1.86 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 3.90

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From Randomization at Baseline until Endpoint at Week 8 (Change over 8 weeks)

Population: Data was missing or unable to be collected from 1 participant in the IN-OXT arm and 3 participants in the matched Placebo study arm (including the 2 participants who withdrew from the study).

Change in QOL and caregiver burden was assessed using the abbreviated WHOQOL-BREF. The WHOQOL-BREF measures 4 broad domains: Physical Health, Psychological Health, Social Relationships, and Environment. The questionnaire was completed by the parent/caregiver and quantified the burden placed on the caregiver/family by the PWS disorder. For the Social Relationships domain (3 questions), responses were assigned to corresponding predefined scores ranging from 1-5 points. A mean overall Social Relationships score was calculated by summing the 3 scores (#s 20, 21, and 22) and dividing by the total number of questions (3). This result was multiplied by 4 to get a final Social Relationships domain score. Social Relationships raw scoring ranges from 3-15; however, for purposes of this outcome measure change from baseline was reported. Positive values were associated with higher QOL and reduced caregiver burden.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=14 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=14 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Change in Quality of Life (QOL) and Caregiver Burden as Determined by the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) Questionnaire - Domain 3 (Social Relationships)
0.00 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 1.80
0.0714 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 2.43

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From Randomization at Baseline until Endpoint at Week 8 (Change over 8 weeks)

Population: Data was missing or unable to be collected from 1 participant in the IN-OXT arm and 3 participants in the matched Placebo study arm (including the 2 participants who withdrew from the study).

Change in QOL and caregiver burden was assessed using the abbreviated WHOQOL-BREF. The WHOQOL-BREF is comprised of 26 items which measure 4 broad domains: Physical Health, Psychological Health, Social Relationships, and Environment. The questionnaire was completed by the parent/caregiver and quantified the burden placed on the caregiver/family by the PWS disorder. For the Environment domain (8 questions), responses were assigned to corresponding predefined scores ranging from 1-5 points. A mean overall Environment score was calculated by summing the scores from the 8 questions (#s 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 23, 24, and 25) and dividing by the total number of questions (8). This result was multiplied by 4 to get a final Environmental domain score. Environment raw scoring ranges from 8-40; however, for purposes of this outcome measure change from baseline was reported. Positive values were associated with higher QOL and reduced caregiver burden.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=14 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=14 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Change in Quality of Life (QOL) and Caregiver Burden as Determined by the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BREF) Questionnaire - Domain 4 (Environment)
-0.0714 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 1.86
0.571 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 4.50

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From Randomization at Baseline until Endpoint at Week 8 (Change over 8 weeks)

Population: Data was unable to be collected from 2 participants in the matched Placebo study arm who withdrew from the study.

Change in Caregiver Strain from baseline was assessed using the Caregiver Strain Questionnaire (CSQ). The CSQ is a 21-item measure of self-reported strain experienced by caregivers/families of youth with emotional problems. Responses to the CSQ are measured on a 5-point Likert scale measuring the impact of strain ranging from 1 = ("Not at all") to 5 = ("very much") for an overall possible scoring range of 21-105. For purposes of this outcome measure, a change in group mean score from baseline is summarized. A negative score is indicative of decreased caregiver/family strain from baseline; whereas, a positive score is indicative of increased caregiver/family strain from baseline.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=15 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=15 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Change in Caregiver Strain
-1.32 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 1.05
-0.355 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 1.35

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From Randomization at Baseline until Endpoint at Week 8 (Change over 8 weeks)

Population: Data was unable to be collected from 2 participants in the matched Placebo study arm who withdrew from the study.

Change in Aberrant Behavior from baseline was assessed using the Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Irritability 15-item subscale (ABC-I). The ABC-I subscale was completed by the caregiver on behalf of the child. At the suggestion of the FDA, the ABC-I subscale was included as a prospective assessment for suicidal ideation and behavior and inform investigators of trends toward increased irritability and disruptive behavior. ABC-I measures behavior on a 4-point severity scale where 0 = no problem at all, 1 = behavior is a problem but in a slight degree, 2 = problem is moderately serious, and 3 = problem is severe in degree, for an overall scoring range of 0-45. For purposes of this outcome, a change in group mean score from baseline is summarized. A negative ABC-I score is indicative of overall decreased irritability and disruptive behavior from baseline, whereas a positive ABC-I score is indicative of overall increased irritability and disruptive behavior from baseline.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=15 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=15 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Change in Aberrant Behavior
-5.33 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 6.75
-1.77 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 5.95

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: From Baseline until collections at 1 hour (Day 1), Week 4 and Week 8

Population: Due to challenges in collecting saliva samples from this population, participants were not able to provide enough saliva to allow for appropriate analysis. As such, samples were not obtained and data was unable to be collected.

Change in Salivary Oxytocin concentration levels from baseline were to have been collected. Salivary samples were to have been collected using the Oragene-Discover collection kit (ORG-500). If able, participants were to have spit saliva directly into the collection tube during an in office or remote visit, and subsequently transported to the clinical site during visit and later processed and submitted for analysis. Change in group mean concentrations from baseline was to have been summarized by study arm using basic descriptive statistics. Increases in concentrations of salivary oxytocin are generally correlated with central nervous system effects and an improvement in these symptoms.

Outcome measures

Outcome data not reported

SECONDARY outcome

Timeframe: 8 weeks (measuring change over 8 weeks)

Population: Data was unable to be collected from 2 participants in the matched Placebo study arm who withdrew from the study.

CGI-I is a clinician rated global measure of improvement that requires the clinician to assess how much the patient's illness has improved or worsened relative to baseline at the beginning of the intervention. The CGI-I consists of one query which is rated on a 7-point scale: "Compared to the patient's condition at admission \[prior to medication initiation\], this patient's condition is: 1=very much improved since the initiation of treatment; 2=much improved; 3=minimally improved; 4=no change from baseline (the initiation of treatment); 5=minimally worse; 6= much worse; 7=very much worse since the initiation of treatment." Scores are summarized by study arm using basic descriptive statistics.

Outcome measures

Outcome measures
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=15 Participants
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=15 Participants
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Clinical Global Impression Scale - Improvement (CGI-I)
2.93 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 0.884
3.00 score on a scale
Standard Deviation 1.000

Adverse Events

Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)

Serious events: 0 serious events
Other events: 7 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo

Serious events: 0 serious events
Other events: 13 other events
Deaths: 0 deaths

Serious adverse events

Adverse event data not reported

Other adverse events

Other adverse events
Measure
Experimental: Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT)
n=15 participants at risk
Syntocinon (synthetic oxytocin) will be used in this protocol. Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Intranasal Oxytocin (IN-OXT): Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
Placebo Comparator: Matched Placebo
n=17 participants at risk
Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril (4 IU each). Matched Placebo: Each subject will receive a dose of 16 IU QD, and will be instructed to inhale 2 puffs per nostril every day (4 IU each). If needed, treatment will be titrated due to side effects or non-response.
General disorders
Fatigue
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
17.6%
3/17 • Number of events 3 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Psychiatric disorders
Increased Irritability
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
11.8%
2/17 • Number of events 2 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Nervous system disorders
Headache
13.3%
2/15 • Number of events 2 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
17.6%
3/17 • Number of events 3 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Gastrointestinal disorders
Nausea
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Psychiatric disorders
Aggressive Episode
6.7%
1/15 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
0.00%
0/17 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders
Nasal Congestion
13.3%
2/15 • Number of events 2 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
0.00%
0/17 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Infections and infestations
Strep Throat
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders
Nasal Irritation
6.7%
1/15 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders
Rash - Upper Arms
6.7%
1/15 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
0.00%
0/17 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Psychiatric disorders
Increased Episodes of Crying
6.7%
1/15 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Ear and labyrinth disorders
Ear Pain
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Nervous system disorders
Increased Speech Apraxia
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders
Wet Cough
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Gastrointestinal disorders
Diarrhea
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
23.5%
4/17 • Number of events 4 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
General disorders
Sluggish
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Infections and infestations
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
6.7%
1/15 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
0.00%
0/17 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
General disorders
Fever
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Psychiatric disorders
Exacerbated Skin Picking
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 2 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders
Sore Throat
6.7%
1/15 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
0.00%
0/17 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders
Canker Sore
6.7%
1/15 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
0.00%
0/17 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Nervous system disorders
Dizziness
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders
Irritation Dermatitis
6.7%
1/15 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
0.00%
0/17 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Infections and infestations
Upper Respiratory Infection
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Gastrointestinal disorders
Constipation
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Gastrointestinal disorders
Stomach Pain
0.00%
0/15 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders
Congestion (General)
6.7%
1/15 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total
5.9%
1/17 • Number of events 1 • Adverse event data for each subject was collected from baseline to completion of endpoint collection, 10 weeks total

Additional Information

Dr. Eric Hollander

Montefiore Medical Center

Phone: 718-839-7516

Results disclosure agreements

  • Principal investigator is a sponsor employee
  • Publication restrictions are in place