Using minocycline to treat obesity and depression with inflammation

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 investigates the feasibility and acceptability of using minocycline, an anti-inflammatory medication, in individuals with comorbid obesity and major depressive disorder (MDD) who have elevated inflammation levels. Participants will undergo an 8-week treatment course alongside their regular antidepressant therapy, with assessments including biomarker measurements and participant feedback. The goal is to determine if this approach is viable for future randomized clinical trials targeting this specific population.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Sufficient communication skills to understand the intervention and complete the assessments.
* Able to give informed consent.
* Treatment resistant depressed (i.e., non-responders to current antidepressant treatment, for at least 6-weeks AND at least one other previous antidepressant).
* Tolerant to the current antidepressant.
* Able to undergo 2 MRI scans.
* Accepting augmentation with minocycline.
* CRP \>3mg/L at screening.
* No plans to change current therapy for the duration of participation.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active suicidal ideation.
* Current primary diagnosis of psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
* Have an acute infection or an autoimmune disorder, because of both the rare but described association between minocycline and systemic lupus erythematosus, and the potential confounder effects of these conditions on immune biomarkers.
* Alcohol misuse disorder or drug addiction.
* Neurological disorders (Parkinson's, Alzheimer's).
* Current serious cardiovascular problems.
* Have acne or psoriasis.
* Currently taking any antibiotic, immunosuppressive medication, or warfarin.
* Taken any tetracycline within the last month.
* Currently taking Lithium or retinoids (Acitretin, Alitretinoin, Isotretinoin).
* Refuse that we contact their GP to inform them about their participation.
* \[OPTIONAL - if not met, cannot undergo the MRI\] Has any metal implants in their body such as pacemakers, dental fillings, IUD device (if applicable), or had any accidents where metal fragments might have entered the body or eye.
* Pregnant or breastfeeding
* Have a positive pregnancy test before starting the study/are unwilling to take a pregnancy test and are unwilling to agree to use an acceptable form of contraceptive throughout the study period (e.g., condoms, intrauterine device (IUD)/intrauterine system (IUS), injection, patch, ring). Female participants who use combined oral contraceptives as their main form of birth control will need to use an additional barrier method for the duration of treatment and for 7 days following completion of treatment.
* Are currently participating in another Clinical Trial of Investigational Medicinal Product (CTIMP).

Where it's running

• King's College London
  London, United Kingdom Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Valeria Mondelli
• Email: valeria.mondelli@kcl.ac.uk
• Phone: +442078480353

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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.