Investigating how SSRIs affect height growth in adolescents

Long-term Trajectory of SSRI-Induced Height Growth Suppression

NIH-funded research Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10944071

This study is looking at how taking certain antidepressants called SSRIs might affect the height growth of teenagers over two years, helping doctors make better treatment choices for young people dealing with anxiety and depression.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBaylor College of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10944071 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines the long-term effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) on height growth in adolescents. It focuses on understanding whether the suppression of height growth and levels of insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1) continues over a two-year period in young patients taking SSRIs. By analyzing data from adolescents who have started treatment with SSRIs, the study aims to provide insights into the relationship between medication dosage and growth suppression. This research is crucial for informing treatment decisions for adolescents experiencing anxiety and depression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who are starting treatment with SSRIs for anxiety or depressive disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently taking SSRIs or who are outside the adolescent age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management strategies for adolescents on SSRIs, potentially minimizing negative impacts on growth.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that SSRIs can suppress height growth in adolescents, suggesting that this research builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.