Semaglutide for Metabolic and Adiposity-Related Targets in Youth With Autism Spectrum Disorder (SMART-ASD)
Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati
Summary
This study is a 6-month, two-arm, RCT which will evaluate the effectiveness and safety of semaglutide in adolescents aged 12-18 years with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and obesity. The primary outcome is change in body mass index (BMI, kg/m²) from baseline to Month 6. Secondary, descriptive outcomes are changes in metabolic parameters (e.g., lipid levels), side effects, and compliance with semaglutide.
Eligibility
- Age range
- 12–18 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria (Semaglutide Group): * 12-18 years of age * Epic-confirmed diagnosis of ASD * Obesity defined as BMI ≥95th percentile for age and sex * Have Medicaid or other insurance that will cover semaglutide or the parent is willing to pay for semaglutide out of pocket * Have a parent who is willing to provide informed consent * Can attend in-person, e-visits, or telehealth visits for 12 months * English speaking Exclusion Criteria (Semaglutide Group): * Healthworks patient who has lost \>5% body weight over the past 3 months * Are on a weight loss-promoting medication such as Metfo…
Interventions
- DrugGlucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist：Semaglutide
Semaglutide may be increased every 1-3 months from 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg, 1.0 mg, 1.7 mg, and 2.4 mg, based on the provider's assessment, BIA results (i.e., if SMM remained stable, \<2 pounds/week lost), and side effects.
- BehavioralLifestyle Management (LSM) Counseling
Participants received lifestyle management counseling consisting of education and guidance on nutrition, physical activity, caloric intake, behavioral modification, and weight-management strategies. Counseling was provided as part of standard clinical care without the addition of pharmacologic or investigational interventions.
Location
- Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical CenterCincinnati, Ohio