A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of TAK-861 for the Treatment of Narcolepsy with Cataplexy (Narcolepsy Type 1)
This research study is looking into a new medication called TAK-861 for people who have narcolepsy type 1. This condition causes overwhelming daytime sleepiness and sudden, temporary muscle weakness called cataplexy. Patients in the study will be given either the new medicine or a dummy pill (placebo) to see how well TAK-861 works and if it has any side effects. Doctors will compare how much peoples' symptoms improve over 12 weeks. They'll measure things like how sleepy people feel, how quickly they fall asleep during the day, and how many episodes of cataplexy they have. This is an important phase of testing to help decide if TAK-861 could become a new treatment option for narcolepsy type 1.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is about exploring a new medicine called TAK-861 for adults who live with narcolepsy type 1. Narcolepsy is a long-term condition that makes people feel extremely sleepy during the day, even after a full night's sleep. Type 1 narcolepsy also involves something called cataplexy, where strong emotions like laughter or anger can suddenly cause muscles to weaken, leading to a temporary loss of control.
The main goal of this study is to find out if TAK-861 can help reduce these symptoms, especially the excessive daytime sleepiness, and to check if it's safe for people to use. To do this fairly, some participants will receive the actual medicine, while others will get a placebo, which looks identical but contains no active drug. This 'blinded' approach helps ensure that any improvements or side effects observed are genuinely due to the medicine and not just what people expect to happen.
Over 12 weeks, the research team will carefully monitor participants. They'll look at various aspects of how people feel and function, such as their overall sleepiness, how their daily lives are affected, and how often they experience cataplexy. This detailed information will help doctors understand if TAK-861 could be an effective and safe new treatment option for people with narcolepsy type 1, potentially improving their quality of life.
Key takeaways
- This study tests a new medicine, TAK-861, for narcolepsy type 1.
- It aims to see if TAK-861 reduces sleepiness and cataplexy.
- Participants will receive either TAK-861 or a dummy pill (placebo).
- The study lasts about 12 weeks, with regular health checks.
- It helps determine if TAK-861 can be a new treatment option.
Who may be eligible?
To be considered for this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 or over. This study is open to both men and women.
Beyond your age and sex, the research team will have specific medical criteria to make sure the study is right for you. They will check your medical history and current health to ensure the trial is safe and appropriate for your individual situation.
It's important to remember that not everyone with narcolepsy type 1 will be able to join, as there are often specific health requirements or conditions that might prevent participation in clinical trials. Your doctor will discuss all these details with you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you have a diagnosis of narcolepsy type 1 with cataplexy?
- Are you able to attend regular clinic visits for about 12 weeks?
- Are you willing to potentially take either the study drug or a placebo?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will visit the clinic regularly over about 12 weeks. During these visits, you will have various assessments to check your health and how your symptoms are changing. These might include answering questionnaires about your sleepiness and how you feel, undergoing specific sleep tests, and having physical examinations.
You will be given either the study medication (TAK-861) or a placebo, which you will take as instructed. Neither you nor your study doctor will know which one you are receiving during the main part of the study. After the 12-week treatment period, there will be a follow-up period where your health will continue to be monitored. The study team will explain everything in detail, including how long each visit will take and what tests will be involved, before you make any decisions.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (11)
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Common questions
What is narcolepsy type 1?
It's a long-term brain condition causing extreme daytime sleepiness and sudden muscle weakness (cataplexy) triggered by strong emotions.
What is TAK-861?
It's an experimental medicine being tested to see if it can help reduce symptoms of narcolepsy type 1.
What is a placebo?
A placebo is a dummy pill that looks like the real medicine but contains no active drug, used to fairly compare effects.
How long will the study last for me?
The main treatment part of the study lasts for 12 weeks, with additional follow-up after that period.
Can I stop participating if I want to?
Yes, you can withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and it won't affect your medical care.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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