Could a common ADHD drug help kids with severe obesity?

NCT ID NCT05416125

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests whether the drug lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse), usually used for ADHD, can help children aged 6 to 12 with severe obesity lose weight. About 44 children will receive either the drug or a placebo, plus lifestyle therapy, for 24 weeks. The main goal is to see if their body mass index (BMI) improves.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a new treatment option for severe obesity in children who have not succeeded with lifestyle changes alone.

What could go wrong

This is a very early, small trial (44 kids) with no results yet. The drug may not work for weight loss in children, and side effects like decreased appetite or sleep problems are possible.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

morbid obesity Obesity Pediatric Obesity

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Minnesota

    Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55414, United States