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Sodium Glycocholate

This article discusses a clinical trial investigating the use of sodium glycocholate and sodium butyrate to improve calcium absorption in women who have undergone Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. The study aims to assess the safety and tolerability of these compounds in addressing potential calcium deficiencies that can occur after this type of weight loss surgery.

Table of Contents

What is Sodium Glycocholate?

Sodium Glycocholate is a chemical compound being studied as part of a potential treatment for improving calcium absorption in women who have undergone gastric bypass surgery. It is being tested in combination with another substance called Sodium Butyrate.[1]

Medical Condition and Purpose

The primary focus of this research is on women with postoperative obesity, specifically those who have undergone a type of weight loss surgery called Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). After this surgery, some patients may experience difficulties with calcium absorption, which can lead to bone health issues.[1]

The main purpose of studying Sodium Glycocholate is to see if it can help increase calcium absorption in these patients. This is important because proper calcium absorption is crucial for maintaining strong bones and overall health.

How It Works

While the exact mechanism is not fully explained in the provided information, Sodium Glycocholate and Sodium Butyrate are being tested to see if they can improve the body’s ability to absorb calcium. These substances are thought to potentially mimic certain bodily functions that may be altered after gastric bypass surgery.[1]

Clinical Trial Details

A clinical trial is currently being conducted to study the effects of Sodium Glycocholate. Here are some key details about the trial:

  • It is an open-label, non-randomized safety and tolerability study.
  • The trial is classified as a Phase I/II clinical trial, which means it’s in the early stages of testing in humans.
  • The main objective is to assess the safety and tolerability of multiple doses of Glycocholate (GC) and Butyrate (B).
  • The treatment is given as an oral solution containing 480 mg of Glycocholate and 90 mg of Butyrate.

The researchers will be looking at several factors to determine if the treatment is effective, including:[1]

  1. PTH concentrations: PTH stands for Parathyroid Hormone, which plays a role in regulating calcium levels in the body.
  2. Calcium urinary excretion: This measures how much calcium is being lost through urine over 24 hours.
  3. Bone resorption markers: These are substances that can indicate how quickly bone is being broken down in the body.

Eligibility Criteria

The study has specific criteria for who can participate. Some key eligibility requirements include:[1]

  • Healthy women between 25 and 45 years old
  • Have undergone Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery more than 12 months ago
  • Have normal blood calcium levels but higher levels of PTH
  • Have low levels of calcium in their urine
  • Have a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 35 kg/m²
  • Not pregnant or breastfeeding

There are also several conditions that would exclude someone from participating, such as certain medical conditions, recent illnesses, or participation in other clinical trials.

Potential Benefits and Risks

As this is an early-stage clinical trial, the potential benefits and risks are not fully known. The primary goal is to assess the safety and tolerability of the treatment. Some potential benefits could include improved calcium absorption and better bone health, but these are yet to be proven.[1]

It’s important to note that all clinical trials carry some risks. Participants will be closely monitored for any side effects or adverse reactions to the treatment.

If you’ve had gastric bypass surgery and are concerned about your calcium absorption, it’s essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on whether participating in such a clinical trial might be appropriate for you or suggest other ways to manage your calcium levels and bone health.

Aspect Details
Trial Name BAFA (Butyrate and Glycocholate for Calcium Absorption)
Trial Type Phase I/II, open-label, non-randomized
Main Objective Assess safety and tolerability of glycocholate and butyrate
Target Population Women aged 25-45 who had Roux-en-Y gastric bypass >12 months ago
Medication Tested BAFA – Butyrate 90 mg and Glycocholate 480 mg Oral solution
Primary Endpoint Safety and tolerability
Secondary Endpoints PTH concentrations, 24h urinary calcium excretion, bone resorption markers
Key Inclusion Criteria Stable weight, BMI 25-35 kg/m², normal blood calcium, elevated PTH, low urinary calcium
Key Exclusion Criteria Pregnancy, hypersensitivity, complicated RYGB, recent bone metabolism treatments

FAQ

  • What is the purpose of this clinical trial? The main purpose of this trial is to evaluate the safety and tolerability of glycocholate (GC) and butyrate (B) when given in multiple doses to women who have had Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. The goal is to see if these compounds can help increase calcium absorption in these patients.
  • Who can participate in this study? The study is looking for healthy women between 25 and 45 years old who have had Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery more than 12 months ago. Participants should have normal blood calcium levels, specific parathyroid hormone levels, and low urinary calcium excretion. They must also have a stable weight and a body mass index between 25 and 35 kg/m².
  • What are the main exclusion criteria for this trial? Some key exclusion criteria include pregnancy, lactation, history of hypersensitivity or allergies, complicated gastric bypass surgeries, recent treatments affecting bone metabolism, participation in other clinical trials within the last 3 months, and history of alcohol or drug abuse within the past 2 years.
  • What will be measured during the trial? The trial will primarily assess the safety and tolerability of the treatment. Additionally, it will measure parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentrations, calcium excretion in urine over 24 hours, and bone resorption markers such as P1NP, CTX, and BALP.
  • What is the medication being tested in this trial? The medication being tested is called BAFA, which is an oral solution containing 90 mg of butyrate and 480 mg of glycocholate. It's designed to mimic bodily functions and potentially improve calcium absorption in patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery.

Ongoing Clinical Trials on Sodium Glycocholate

  • Study on Sodium Glycocholate and Sodium Butyrate for Calcium Absorption in Women with Obesity After Gastric Bypass

    Recruiting

    2 1 1
    Investigated drugs:
    Sweden

Glossary

  • Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB): A type of weight loss surgery that reduces the size of the stomach and bypasses part of the small intestine, potentially affecting nutrient absorption.
  • Glycocholate (GC): A bile acid that helps in the digestion and absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the intestines.
  • Butyrate (B): A short-chain fatty acid produced by gut bacteria that plays a role in maintaining intestinal health.
  • Calcium absorption: The process by which the body takes in and uses calcium from food or supplements, important for bone health.
  • Parathyroid hormone (PTH): A hormone that regulates calcium levels in the blood and affects bone metabolism.
  • Body mass index (BMI): A measure that uses height and weight to determine if a person has a healthy body weight.
  • Bone resorption markers: Substances in the blood or urine that indicate the rate at which bone is being broken down.
  • P1NP, CTX, and BALP: Specific markers used to measure bone formation and breakdown.
  • Oral solution: A liquid form of medication taken by mouth.
  • Proof of Concept Trial: An early-stage clinical trial designed to test whether a treatment might be effective before moving on to larger studies.

References

  1. http://clinicaltrials.eu/trial/study-on-sodium-glycocholate-and-sodium-butyrate-for-calcium-absorption-in-women-with-obesity-after-gastric-bypass/