Dexmedetomidine Trial for Effects on Rhythms, Sleep Architecture, and Biomarker Dynamics in Older Adults

NCT07800910 · Status: NOT_YET_RECRUITING · Phase: EARLY_PHASE1 · Type: INTERVENTIONAL · Enrollment: 12

Last updated 2026-09-02

No results posted yet for this study

Summary

The DEXTER study is a cross-over, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot research study led by Dr. Peng Li. The goal of this project is to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and biological effects of a single dose of sublingual (under-the-tongue) dexmedetomidine (SL Dex) in older adults. Specifically, researchers want to see how this medication affects sleep patterns, internal 24-hour circadian rhythms, and the daily cycles of certain neurological proteins (specifically plasma p-tau217) associated with brain aging.

Conditions

  • Sleep
  • Circadian Rhythm

Interventions

DRUG

Dexmedetomidine sublingual film

Participants receive a single 120 mcg dose of sublingual dexmedetomidine (IGALMI®) administered approximately 15-20 minutes before the scheduled sleep opportunity during the in-laboratory protocol.

DRUG

Placebo Sublingual Film

Participants receive a matched placebo sublingual film identical in appearance, packaging, and administration method to the active dexmedetomidine formulation but containing no active medication.

Sponsors & Collaborators

Study Design

Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
SUPPORTIVE_CARE
Masking
TRIPLE
Model
CROSSOVER

Eligibility

Min Age
65 Years
Sex
ALL
Healthy Volunteers
Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start
2026-09-01
Primary Completion
2028-08-31
Completion
2028-08-31
FDA Drug
Yes

Countries

  • United States

Study Locations

More Related Trials

Entities

Read the full study record

This page highlights key information. For complete eligibility criteria, study locations, investigator contacts, and the full protocol, visit the original record on ClinicalTrials.gov.

View NCT07800910 on ClinicalTrials.gov