Using fecal microbiota transplantation to treat chronic insomnia

The Safety and Efficacy of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Patients With Chronic Insomnia Disorder

Phase1; Phase2 Interventional Peking University Sixth Hospital · NCT05917379

This study is testing whether taking fecal microbiota capsules can help people with chronic insomnia sleep better compared to a placebo.

Quick facts

PhasePhase1; Phase2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment56 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorPeking University Sixth Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Beijing, Beijing)
Trial IDNCT05917379 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) delivered via oral capsules in patients diagnosed with chronic insomnia disorder. Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving the FMT capsules and the other receiving placebo capsules that look identical but contain starch. The study aims to compare the sleep quality of both groups using standardized measures such as the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and polysomnography (PSG). The trial is designed to assess both the efficacy and safety of this innovative treatment approach.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-60 with a diagnosis of chronic insomnia disorder as per DSM-5 criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with significant gastrointestinal disorders or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy are unlikely to benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could provide a novel and effective option for patients suffering from chronic insomnia.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of fecal microbiota transplantation is gaining interest, this specific approach for treating chronic insomnia is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Diagnosed CID by DSM-5
2. 18-60 years old24
3. Body Mass Index (BMI) within the range of 18-24 kg/m²
4. No other pharmacologic treatment in the last month or at the stable maintenance stage (stable dose for more than two months)

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Currently pregnant, planning pregnancy shortly, or breastfeeding
2. Undergoing or recently received immunosuppressive therapy, or severe immunosuppression (neutrophil count \<1500 cells/mm³, lymphocyte count \<500 cells/mm³)
3. Diagnosis of one or more specific gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, gastrointestinal tumors, pseudomembranous enteritis, gastrointestinal bleeding, enterocutaneous fistula, etc.)
4. Diseases with significant correlations to gut microbiota include Type 2 Diabetes, thyroid disorders, migraines, and autoimmune diseases
5. Ex-/intraintestinal organ infection
6. Abnormal liver or kidney function
7. Faecal occult blood test (+)
8. Suffering from chronic pain, restless leg syndrome, obstructive sleep apnea, or thyroid disorders.
9. Central nervous system disorders (e.g., epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, history of traumatic brain injury, cerebrovascular diseases, etc.)
10. Current smokers or alcohol drinkers
11. History of food or antibiotic allergies

Where this trial is running

Beijing, Beijing

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Insomnia ChronicFecal Microbiota TransplantationSleep DisorderDepressionAnxietyCognitive Impairment
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.