When to add Weight-Loss pills? new study tests timing for teens

NCT ID NCT04007393

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looked at 150 teens aged 12-17 with severe obesity to find the best time to add a weight-loss pill (phentermine) if lifestyle changes alone weren't enough. Participants first tried lifestyle therapy for 12 or 24 weeks, then those who didn't lose enough weight started the medication. The goal was to see how much their body mass index (BMI) changed over 48 weeks.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Phentermine

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show doctors the best way to combine lifestyle changes with medication to help teens with severe obesity lose weight more effectively.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase study (Phase 2) with only 150 teens. The results may not apply to all teens, and phentermine can have side effects like increased heart rate or insomnia.

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.

obesity disorder 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