Investigating the effects of oxytocin on reward processing in women

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study examines how oxytocin influences reward processing and metabolic functions in women across different hormonal statuses. It involves four groups of women: those with natural menstrual cycles in both the follicular and luteal phases, and those taking combined or progestogen-only hormonal contraceptives. Participants will undergo MRI scans and cognitive tests after receiving either intranasal oxytocin or a placebo in a randomized, double-blind design. Blood samples will be collected to analyze hormone levels and assess body composition.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Body-mass index (BMI): 18-28 kg/m2
* Sex: female (since birth)
* Normal or corrected vision
* Natural menstrual cycle (NC) or intake of hormonal oral contraceptives (OC)
* NC: No hormonal contraception for at least 6 months; regular menstrual cycle (between 25 and 31 days) prior to participation
* OC: No hormonal contraception for at least 4 months, regular intake of OC pill

Exclusion Criteria:

* No German language fluency (due to German language test content)
* Smoking
* Medication taken within the last 6 weeks (except for OCs in the respective group)
* Current neurological or psychiatric disease (anamnestic survey)
* Current medical problems such as hormonal, metabolic, or chronic diseases (e.g., severe hypertension, diabetes, dysfunctions of the thyroid, or congestive heart failure)
* Pregnancy, delivery and lactation (current and within the last year; anamnestic survey, current pregnancy test)
* Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
* Shift work
* NC: Any kind of hormonal treatment or contraception
* OC: Any kind of hormonal treatment or contraception (except OCs)
* Contraindication for MRI:
* Non-removable metal objects on or in the body
* Tattoos (if MRI-incompatible according to expert guidelines)
* Pathological hearing or increased sensitivity to loud noise
* Claustrophobia
* Operation less than three months ago
* Neurological disease or injury
* Moderate or severe head injury
* Intake of antidepressants or neuroleptics
* Restricted vision

Where it's running

• University of Tuebingen; Department of Psychiatry & Psychotherapy; Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioural Neurobiology
  Tübingen, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Manfred Hallschmid, Professor — Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioural Neurobiology
• Study coordinator: Manfred Hallschmid, Professor
• Email: manfred.hallschmid@uni-tuebingen.de
• Phone: +49 7071 29 88925

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.