Studying 5-HTP for Spinal Cord Injuries

This study is looking at how a drug called 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), combined with Carbidopa, affects people with spinal cord injuries. Researchers want to see if these drugs change how your nervous system responds and how well your muscles work. You might be able to join if you are between 18 and 65 years old and had a spinal cord injury at least six months ago. The study aims to understand if these drugs can improve muscle activation and movement. The current status of this study is unclear.

Study design
This is a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled crossover study involving 30 participants. This means participants will receive different treatments, including a placebo, without knowing which one they are getting.
What's involved
Participants will visit the lab on 4 separate occasions. During these visits, different drugs will be given, and measurements of nerve and muscle function will be taken.
Compensation
Not stated in the trial record.
Follow-up
Measurements will be taken at pre-drug intake, and then 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes after drug intake on each visit.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.

NCT04520178

Effects of 5HTP on the Injured Human Spinal Cord

Recruiting
PHASE2Ages 18–65InterventionalBasic science
University of Alberta
~30 participants
Updated 2025-08-27 on ClinicalTrials.gov
What's tested:5-Hydroxytryptophan 100 MG5-HydroxytryptophanCarbidopaPlacebo

At a glance

Recruiting sites
1 of 2 listed sites are recruiting right now
RecruitingSuspended, closed, or not yet open
What they're measuring
Change in motoneuron excitability
Measured over Pre drug-intake, 30minutes, 60minutes, 90minutes and 120minutes post drug-intake
+3 more outcomes measured
Spinal Cord Injuries
2 sites across 2 states
Kentucky1
Alberta1
  • Jessica D'Amico, PhD · PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR · University of Alberta

Opens a ready-to-send draft in your own email app — review before sending.

Do you actually qualify for this trial?

Add a private profile and we'll compare every criterion below against your situation — and tell you which ones are met, uncertain, or excluding.

Check eligibility for this trial ~2 min · HIPAA-protected · delete anytime
Eligibility criteria

Inclusion

participants must have suffered trauma to the spinal cord at least six months ago or longer

Exclusion

individuals with damage to the nervous system other than to the spinal cord
pregnant and/or breastfeeding women
alcoholic participants
history of seizure/epilepsy
history of suicidal thoughts or behaviors
known or suspected allergy to the medication ingredients
cardiovascular disease including history of heart attack or heart rhythm irregularities
coronary artery disease
reduced liver function or disease
reduced kidney function or disease
lung disease
comatose or depressed states due to CNS depressants
endocrine dysfunction
blood dyscrasias or blood related disease
bone marrow depression
hypocalcemia
history of stomach ulcers
wide angle glaucoma
phenylketonuria
history of tumors
uncontrolled heart problems
unstable psychiatric or mental disorder
monoamine oxidase inhibitor therapy
serotonergic antidepressants
tricyclic antidepressants
any type of serotonergic agonist
dopamine D2 receptor antagonists
amphetamine
CNS depressants
levodopa
lithium
anti-hypertensive drugs
iron salts
metoclopramide
phenothiazine medication
  • Change in motoneuron excitabilityPre drug-intake, 30minutes, 60minutes, 90minutes and 120minutes post drug-intake

    F waves

  • Change in spinal excitabilityPre drug-intake, 30minutes, 60minutes, 90minutes and 120minutes post drug-intake

    H reflex

  • Change in flexor reflex/spasmsPre drug-intake, 30minutes, 60minutes, 90minutes and 120minutes post drug-intake

    Cutaneomuscular reflex

  • Change in functional movement performancePre drug-intake, 120-150minutes post drug-intake

    Leg cycling task