Federal Grant Award Summary

The University of Minnesota received a $759,944 Project Grant from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) under the Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases Extramural Research program (CFDA 93.847), awarded on March 6, 2026, with a completion date of February 28, 2031. This clinical trial research initiative will investigate a biologically-based approach to obesity prevention in older adolescents and young adults (AYAs) by combining low-dose preventative pharmacotherapy with lifestyle-based weight gain prevention counseling. The research will evaluate the efficacy of phentermine/topiramate—a cost-effective, multi-mechanism obesity medication—in targeting key physiological processes of the energy regulatory system to impede unhealthy weight gain and prevent obesity onset in this high-risk population.

The project diverges from traditional behavioral and environmental intervention approaches by directly addressing the underlying physiological pathways that drive adiposity accumulation. The flexible dosing regimen of phentermine/topiramate allows for preventative treatment initiation at low exposure levels with potential dose escalation if needed, offering a novel pharmacological strategy tailored to the distinct metabolic susceptibilities of adolescents and young adults during this critical life stage. The research is conducted at the University of Minnesota's Minneapolis campus through its Office of Sponsored Projects Administration.