Youth Anxiety Research Study
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are conducting a study to understand how the anxiety medication escitalopram works in kids and teens with different types of anxiety, like general, separation, or social anxiety. The goal is to make the treatment safer and more effective by adjusting the dosage based on each person’s genetics.
Escitalopram (common brand Lexapro) is an FDA approved SSRI medication to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder.
Fast Facts
Symptoms of Anxiety That Affect Daily Life
Not On An Antidepressant Medication
Ages 12-17
Compensation Provided
Conducted in
Cincinnati, OH
Study Background
Pharmacogenetically-guided Escitalopram Treatment for Pediatric Anxiety: Aiming to Improve Safety and Efficacy (PrEcISE)
This research study aims to better understand how the anxiety medication escitalopram works in children and teens aged 12 to 17 who have generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, or social anxiety. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will receive a dose of the medication based on their genetic profile, while the other group will receive a standard dose. Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will take the medication, and neither the participants nor the study team will know which dose is being administered until the study concludes. This approach allows researchers to assess the impact of personalized dosing based on genetics.
The goal of this study is to help doctors and researchers identify which kids and teens respond best to escitalopram and determine how genetic factors can influence the effectiveness and safety of the medication. By conducting this clinical trial, the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine hopes to improve the way anxiety treatments are tailored to individuals, ensuring more personalized and effective care. Understanding how genetic variations affect treatment outcomes could lead to safer and more efficient anxiety treatments for young people.
Study Background
Pharmacogenetically-guided Escitalopram Treatment for Pediatric Anxiety: Aiming to Improve Safety and Efficacy (PrEcISE)
This research study aims to better understand how the anxiety medication escitalopram works in children and teens aged 12 to 17 who have generalized anxiety, separation anxiety, or social anxiety. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will receive a dose of the medication based on their genetic profile, while the other group will receive a standard dose. Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will take the medication, and neither the participants nor the study team will know which dose is being administered until the study concludes. This approach allows researchers to assess the impact of personalized dosing based on genetics.
The goal of this study is to help doctors and researchers identify which kids and teens respond best to escitalopram and determine how genetic factors can influence the effectiveness and safety of the medication. By conducting this clinical trial, the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine hopes to improve the way anxiety treatments are tailored to individuals, ensuring more personalized and effective care. Understanding how genetic variations affect treatment outcomes could lead to safer and more efficient anxiety treatments for young people.
Additional Information
This study is being conducted to understand how the anxiety medication escitalopram works in children and teens with different types of anxiety, and to explore how genetic factors can influence the effectiveness and safety of the medication. The goal is to improve the personalization of anxiety treatments for young people.
You/your child may qualify if the following criteria are met:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 12-17 years old
- Symptoms of anxiety that impact daily life
- Not on an antidepressant medication
- Symptoms may included uncontrollable worrying, restlessness, sleep difficulties, and frequent worries about loved ones
- Not currently using illicit substances
If you participate in this study, the following will happen:
You will attend nine in-person visits over 12 weeks, occurring weekly or every other week.
At each visit, you will meet with Dr. Strawn to discuss how you’re feeling and complete study check-ins.
Your blood pressure, heart rate, and other vital signs will be monitored at each visit.
At the first visit, you will:
Provide a urine sample (to check for pregnancy or other substances).
Have an EKG (heart test).
Give a small sample for genetic testing.
At least two additional visits will involve taking a blood sample.
A final EKG will be done at the last visit, after the study team reveals which dose you were taking.
Yes, you will be paid for participating in this study. You will receive $30 per study visit or $50 if a blood draw is conducted.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
