Trial Information

Summary: Effects of supraphysiological rhGH on bone metabolism in Anorexia Nervosa

BONE LOSS RESEARCH STUDY
Women up to 45 Years Old
Massachusetts General Hospital

Women who have anorexia nervosa are at greater risk for bone loss at an early age. This means that their bones are more likely to break. There is no known treatment which increases bone density in women who have anorexia nervosa

We are seeking women with anorexia who have not taken hormones or birth control pills in the last three months for a research study at Massachusetts General Hospital examining whether giving a natural hormone can improve markers of bone strength and bone formation. This natural hormone, called growth hormone, has been shown to play an important role in strengthening bone in other conditions.

You do not need to live near Boston to join in the study. Participants who live near Boston will come to Massachusetts General Hospital eight times over the course of three months. Participants who live far from Boston will come to Massachusetts General Hospital two or three times, and the remainder of their visits will be completed at a doctor’s office near home.

The study will include two bone density scans, as well as nutritional and hormonal evaluations. Participants will receive either growth hormone or a placebo (looks like growth hormone but does not contain the study medication). There is no cost for participating in the study, and our participants receive compensation of up to $200. Transportation and parking costs will be reimbursed, even if you do not live near Boston.

For more information or to find out if you’re eligible to participate, please contact Dan Donoho at 617-643-2609 or ddonoho@partners.org.

If you would like to learn more about participating in this study, please send an e-mail message using the form below.