Understanding how antipsychotic medications affect metabolism in young people

Plain-English translation of NCT06814314 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated February 2025 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

What is this trial?

Researchers know that antipsychotic medications can sometimes cause metabolic problems (like weight gain, high blood pressure, or high blood sugar) in children and teens. This study collects blood samples to look for early genetic warning signs in the blood that might predict who will develop these problems when taking antipsychotics. By understanding these warning signs, doctors could eventually personalize treatment to reduce metabolic risks.

Antipsychotic medications help manage serious behavioral and emotional conditions in young people, but they can have side effects related to metabolism and weight. Right now, doctors have no way to predict ahead of time which young patients will experience these metabolic problems. This study aims to find genetic markers that could help doctors identify at-risk patients early and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 5 and 17 years old
you have been taking an antipsychotic medication daily for at least 3 months (if in groups 1 or 2), OR you have never taken antipsychotics (if in group 3)
you have signs of metabolic problems such as elevated blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, or a larger waist circumference for your age (if in groups 1 or 3), OR you have none of these signs (if in group 2)
you have been diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder or irritability that may be treated with antipsychotics

You likely don't qualify if…

you have a diagnosed genetic condition that affects how your body processes food or energy
you have been diagnosed with an eating disorder
you regularly take supplements or other medications known to affect metabolism or nutrition
you cannot have a blood sample drawn or prefer not to participate in research involving genetic testing

What participation looks like

You would visit the research clinic where researchers will take a small blood sample from your arm — similar to a routine blood test at a doctor's office. The blood sample will be analyzed to look at gene activity related to metabolism. Depending on which group you're in, you may be asked about your current medications, weight, and health history. The study is not testing a new drug — it's purely observational research to understand how the body responds to existing antipsychotic treatments.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 22, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

Italy

IRCCS Eugenio Medea, Bosisio Parini, LC