Childhood obesity is one of the most pressing health challenges in our community. Latino and African American children are affected at higher rates, placing them at greater risk for diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions later in life. This study is designed to support parents (or other caregivers) living with obesity to create a healthier food environment at home. By helping parents, we also help children grow up healthier. 

Interested in joining? 

Please contact our research team at 909-558-8382 or email [email protected].

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the study?

  • Parent or Caregiver (P/OCG):
    • Hispanic/Latino or African American
    • Age 18 or older
    • BMI ≥ 30 (with stable weight)
    • Able to take study medication (or placebo), complete questionnaires, and attend visits
    • Fluent in English
  • Child (12–72 months old):
    • Hispanic/Latino or African American
    • BMI at or above the 95th percentile for age, gender, and height
    • Spends at least half of waking hours and meals with the parent/caregiver

Who cannot participate?

Parents/caregivers or children may not participate if they are receiving cancer treatment, using certain weight-loss (Wegovy™ or Zepbound™) or psychiatric medications, have serious medical conditions (such as recent heart attack, stroke, glaucoma, or untreated thyroid disease), or other health issues that would interfere with the study.

What is expected of participants?

  • Attend 11 study visits (mix of in-person and virtual) over 36 weeks
  • Take study oral medication (Lomira™ (phentermine)  or placebo) as directed, along with a lifestyle program (Full Plate Living)
  • Provide blood samples at 4 visits (parent/caregiver only)
  • Complete nutrition and lifestyle questionnaires through MyChart
  • Child attends visits with parent/caregiver for measurements

How can I particpate?

  • Families will be recruited through SAC Health, Loma Linda University Health and community contacts.
  • If eligible, you will be contacted by MyChart, phone, or email to attend an orientation and consent session at the Nutrition Research Center.
     

How long will the study last?

Participation is 36 weeks (about 9 months).

Will it cost me anything?

No. All study activities, tests, and materials are provided at no cost.

What are the risks?

  • Parents/caregivers: Possible medication side effects (insomnia, dry mouth, digestive changes, temporary hair loss, menstrual cycle changes)
  • Children: Temporary dissatisfaction with food changes or digestive adjustment as the home diet becomes healthier
     

Benefits

  • Parents/caregivers: Improved health, reduced risk of obesity-related conditions (diabetes, heart disease, dementia)
  • Children: Lower risk of lifelong obesity, improved mobility and growth
  • Society: Helps researchers better understand how to prevent and treat obesity

Results

At the end of the study, results will be shared with participants and published in scientific reports. All personal health information will remain confidential.

Compensation

Participants will receive Walmart gift cards for completing visits:

  • $150 at Visit 4
  • $150 at Visit 7
  • $200 at Visit 10
     

Total: $500 in gift cards
 

Voluntary Participation

Participation is completely voluntary. Families may withdraw at any time without affecting their medical care.

Required Dates

  • Study visits occur every 4 weeks over 36 weeks
  • Five in-person visits at the Nutrition Research Center
  • Six virtual visits via MyChart

How can I get started?

Please contact our research team at 909-558-8382 or email [email protected].