A new study will evaluate the effectiveness of supplementation in combating muscle fatigue and weakness.
Research shows that individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) often have reduced energy levels and a reduction in muscle strength.
A new clinical trial, The Strength Study, is being led by Northern Sydney Local Health District to evaluate the effectiveness of supplementation in combating muscle fatigue and weakness.
Eligible children between 8-12 years old can now join the study, which involves consistently taking an oral L-carnitine tablet over the trial period.
Similar trials have shown promising results!
What is a clinical research study?
Clinical research studies help scientists and doctors find out whether a medical strategy, drug, or device is safe and works in humans. Before a new drug or device can be prescribed for a specific condition, it must go through several rounds of clinical research.
Participation in a clinical research study is the participant’s decision, and participants may stop at any time.
What is the study medicine?
L-carnitine is an over-the-counter nutraceutical supplement taken to improve fatty acid oxidation and energy production.
Who can join the study?
Children aged 8 to 12 years who fulfill the National Institutes of Health Consensus Conference diagnostic criteria for NF1 who have a self-reported history of muscle weakness will be invited to participate and attend the Royal North Shore Hospital Clinical Genetics clinic.
More about the study:
L-carnitine is an over-the-counter nutraceutical supplement taken to improve fatty acid oxidation and energy production. Thissupplementis commonly used to improveweightloss andmuscle performance in the general population. L-carnitine supplementation is also used to treat primary carnitine deficiency and other metabolic myopathies.
Eligible patients will enter an approximately 1-week, but no more than 2-week, screening period that includes a baseline assessment of selfreported muscle weakness, safety laboratory tests and physical examination. Following screening period, approximately 30-40 eligible patientswill be randomized 2:1 to receive L-carnitine or placebo in a 12- week Treatment/Supplementation Period.
For more information, please contact their research team via email or phone 9463 1727.