In short
This article provides information about ongoing clinical trials for Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood, a rare neurological disorder that causes temporary episodes of paralysis affecting one side of the body in children. Currently, there is 1 clinical trial investigating new treatment approaches for managing the sudden attacks associated with this condition.
Clinical trial locations
Study on Oxygen and Nitrous Oxide for Treating Dystonic and Plegic Attacks in Children with Alternating Hemiplegia
This clinical trial is investigating whether high-flow oxygen therapy can help stop the sudden attacks of paralysis or muscle stiffness that affect children with this condition. The treatment involves breathing in a mixture of nitrous oxide and oxygen through a facial mask during an attack.
Who can join this trial:
- Children older than 1 year who have been diagnosed with Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood caused by ATP1A3 gene mutations
- Children who experience at least one attack per week that lasts longer than 30 minutes
- Children who can use a high-flow oxygen mask, either independently or with assistance
- Children whose current treatment has been stable for at least one month, or those not on long-term treatment
- Families with social insurance coverage
- Written informed consent must be provided
Who cannot join this trial:
- Children who do not have a confirmed diagnosis of Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood
- Children specifically between 2 to 4 years old are excluded from certain parts of the study
- Individuals from vulnerable populations not selected for this study
What the trial aims to achieve:
The main goal of this research is to determine whether high-flow oxygen therapy can effectively stop motor attacks within 30 minutes of their onset. The study will compare the oxygen therapy against a placebo to measure its effectiveness. Researchers will monitor how often attacks occur and how long they last during the five-week trial period. The treatment does not change any existing medications or therapies that participants are currently receiving.
Investigational treatment:
The trial is testing oxygen therapy delivered through a high-flow mask. This treatment works by increasing the oxygen supply to body tissues, which may help reduce symptoms by improving how cells function and produce energy. The therapy is administered at the onset of an attack and aims to provide immediate relief from the sudden paralysis or muscle stiffness episodes.
Summary
Currently, there is one active clinical trial for Alternating Hemiplegia of Childhood, taking place in France. This trial focuses on developing an acute intervention for managing the distressing attacks that characterize this rare condition. The study is investigating oxygen therapy as a potential emergency treatment that could be administered quickly when symptoms begin.
The trial specifically targets children who experience frequent attacks and aims to provide evidence for whether this readily available treatment approach can improve the immediate management of symptoms. The five-week study period allows researchers to observe multiple attacks and gather meaningful data about the effectiveness of this intervention.
