Menthol Gel for Metabolism
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if applying a menthol gel can activate brown adipose tissue, a type of fat that burns calories to generate heat. Researchers are investigating whether the cooling effect of menthol can increase energy use in the body. Participants will be divided into three groups: one using menthol gel, one using a sham cream (a non-active cream), and one using no cream. Individuals who work out regularly and have a body fat percentage of 30% or less may be suitable for this trial. As an Early Phase 1 trial, this research focuses on understanding how menthol gel works in people, offering participants the opportunity to be among the first to explore its effects.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
If you are taking medications that affect the cardiovascular system, such as blood pressure or cholesterol medications, you may not be eligible to participate in the trial. The protocol does not specify a washout period, but these medications are listed as exclusion criteria.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that menthol gel is usually safe when applied to the skin. Studies suggest that menthol is unlikely to cause allergic skin reactions. No strong evidence links menthol to cancer or genetic harm in humans. However, menthol can sometimes irritate the skin and eyes, especially if used incorrectly or in large amounts. Overall, menthol is commonly used in many products and is considered safe when used as directed.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Unlike typical treatments for boosting metabolism, which often involve dietary changes, exercise, or pharmaceutical interventions, the menthol gel introduces a novel approach by using a topical application. This gel contains 5% L-menthol, which is applied directly to the skin and could potentially stimulate metabolism through local cooling effects. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it offers a non-invasive, easy-to-use alternative that might activate thermogenesis without the need for systemic medication or lifestyle alterations. This unique mechanism could pave the way for a new category of metabolism-enhancing therapies.
What evidence suggests that menthol gel might be an effective treatment for metabolism?
Research has shown that applying menthol to the skin can help the body burn more calories by producing heat. In past studies, menthol application increased people's metabolic rate, leading to higher energy use. Evidence also suggests that menthol might activate brown fat, a type of fat that burns calories to maintain body warmth. One study found that using menthol on the skin increased brown fat activity and helped reduce weight gain. However, while these findings are promising, researchers continue to investigate whether the increase in energy use is directly due to brown fat activation. In this trial, participants will be assigned to different groups, including a menthol gel application, a sham cream, or no cream, to further explore these effects.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Blair D Johnson, PhD
Principal Investigator
Indiana University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for English-speaking individuals who are physically active, with a body fat percentage of 30% or less. They must not have any menthol allergy, be pregnant or breastfeeding, use tobacco products, have certain skin disorders or tattoos that could interfere with the study, nor should they have cardiovascular, metabolic, neurologic, endocrine or respiratory diseases.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive topical menthol or sham cream application to the anterior upper body
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Menthol Gel
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Indiana University
Lead Sponsor