Examining SSRI-Induced Disruption of Pubertal Growth Spurt (H-44017)

SSRIs stands for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. This is the class of medications most commonly used to treat depression and anxiety. We would like to study if two SSRIs, fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft), affect growth in teens. This study is funded by the National Institutes of Health.

What does the study entail? 

• Three in-person visits at our clinic and four online/phone check-ins. Each in-person visit lasts about 2-4 hours, and the online/phone check-ins last about 15-30 minutes.
• Study participation will last for six months. 
• At each in-person visit, participants will be asked to complete questionnaires. They will also be asked to undergo a blood draw and a brief physical exam, and to give us stool (optional) and urine samples. 
• Meals will be provided for participants who complete the fasting blood draw.
• Participants will be compensated $25-$395 depending on how much of the study they complete, in addition to reimbursement for transportation expenses.

Study requirements 

• Must be 8-15 years of age.
• About to start treatment with fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft), or have started within the past month.