Droxidopa for Dysautonomia in Menkes Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether Northera (Droxidopa) is safe and effective in young adults with Menkes disease who survived the most severe complications of their illness or adults with occipital horn syndrome (OHS), who have trouble with intermittent low blood pressure and other symptoms of dysautonomia. The outcomes and information from this study may help adult survivors of Menkes disease and individuals with OHS lead more normal day-to-day lives.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you stop taking certain medications, including any alpha-1 adrenoreceptor agonist, beta-blocker, DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor, midodrine, ephedrine, or any triptan medication.
Is Droxidopa generally safe for humans?
How is the drug droxidopa unique for treating dysautonomia in Menkes Disease?
Droxidopa is unique because it is a norepinephrine prodrug that can cross the blood-brain barrier, potentially offering central effects that other treatments do not. It is also effective in increasing blood pressure by converting to norepinephrine outside the brain, which is beneficial for conditions with low norepinephrine levels.678910
What data supports the effectiveness of the drug Droxidopa for treating dysautonomia in Menkes Disease?
Who Is on the Research Team?
Stephen G Kaler, MD
Principal Investigator
Nationwide Children's Hospital
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults over 18 with Menkes disease or Occipital Horn Syndrome who have survived severe complications and experience symptoms like low blood pressure when standing or chronic diarrhea. Participants must have a specific genetic mutation, be able to take oral medication, and commit to study visits. Those with liver or kidney diseases, heart issues, hypertension, or on certain medications cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive Northera (Droxidopa) or placebo in a double-blind crossover design for six weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Droxidopa
- Placebo
Droxidopa is already approved in United States for the following indications:
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Stephen G. Kaler, MD
Lead Sponsor