Could the 'Love Hormone' help teens lose weight?

NCT ID NCT04551482

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Massachusetts General Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tests whether oxytocin nasal spray can help teenagers with obesity manage their weight. Over 12 weeks, participants aged 10-18 will take the spray or a placebo four times daily. Researchers will measure changes in body mass index, body fat, and appetite to see if oxytocin offers a safe, effective way to control weight.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Oxytocin nasal spray
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new treatment option for obesity in teenagers that helps control appetite and body weight.
What could go wrong: This is an early Phase 2 trial with only 55 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The treatment is short-term and may not lead to lasting weight loss.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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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.

OBESITY, ADOLESCENT OXYTOCIN

Contacts and locations

Locations

Massachusetts General Hospital
RECRUITING

Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States

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