Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Metformin Administered to people with Fragile X Syndrome
This study aims to evaluate the safety and benefits of Metformin treatment on symptoms of patients with Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), such as:
- Language delays
- Behavioral disorders
- Excessive eating
- Obesity
- Hypogonadism
- Delayed puberty
Fragile-X syndrome is a rare genetic disorder linked to the X sex chromosome and notably affects the FMR1 gene. Metformin is a medication generally used in patients suffering from diabetes. type 2. In these patients, it helps reduce blood sugar levels. A decrease weight gain and excessive eating is noted in these patients.
A preliminary study carried out at the MIND Institute showed that Metformin reduced the weight gain and improved language and behavior in patients with FXS (Dy et al., 2017). This new study is carried out in collaboration with the MIND Institute and the University of Alberta. During the study, 60 participants will be recruited to participate in the clinical trial. This pharmacological trial lasts 4 months and includes visits to the CHU Sainte-Justine as well as phone calls. The trial is randomized, meaning that half of the patients receive the Metformin treatment and the other half receive a placebo. Moreover, the trial is double-blind, meaning that neither the participants nor the research team knows who is taking the treatment and who is taking the placebo.
For more information, email us: Projet.fragilex.hsj@ssss.gouv.qc.ca
