Actively Recruiting
The Effects of Beta-Hydroxy-Beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) and/or 2-hydroxybenzylamine (2-HOBA) on Markers of Health Span in Older Adults A Randomized Control Trial
Led by McGill University Health Centre/Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre · Updated on 2026-05-14
120
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
This research aims to study the effects of two dietary supplements, beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) and 2-hydroxybenzylamine (2-HOBA), either alone or combined, on muscle strength, cognitive function, and overall health in adults aged 65 and older. These supplements, considered nutraceuticals, may help extend the period of good health by targeting aging processes and protecting against chronic diseases. The study is led by McGill University Health Centre and explores the potential of these natural compounds in aging populations. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups: HMB alone, 2-HOBA alone, a combination of both supplements, or a placebo group. Each treatment is given as tablets taken twice daily for 90 days, with specific doses for each supplement. The placebo group receives tablets matching the active supplements in appearance but without the active ingredients. The study uses a quadruple-blind design to fairly assess the effects of these supplements on health. During the 90-day study, participants will attend scheduled visits where researchers will evaluate muscle strength, physical function, cardiorespiratory fitness, immune function, cognitive function using specific cognitive tools, and inflammatory markers. Blood samples will be collected to measure metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress markers. Safety and side effects will be monitored throughout. The main outcome is the change in muscle mass after 12 weeks of supplementation. Participants are followed closely to assess overall health benefits and any risks associated with the supplements.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
This Study Investigates β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB) and 2-hydroxybenzylamine (2-HOBA), When Administered Either Individually or in Combination Contributes to an Increased Quality of Health, Specifically Improving Muscular Strength and Cognitive Functioning in Adults Over the Age of 65.
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- 65 years of age or older
- English or French speaking
- Females not of childbearing potential
- Willing to maintain current lifestyle and dietary habits, including physical activity and allowed medication/supplement use during the study
You will not qualify if you...
- Known cardiac diseases, arterial fibrillation, hepatic diseases, immune diseases, ulcers, asthma, gout, severe anemia, hay fever, nasal polyps
- Chronic kidney disease with estimated GFR less than 35 mL/min
- Neurological injury or disorder causing significant persistent deficits (e.g., stroke with hemiparesis, muscular dystrophy, Parkinson's disease)
- Neuropsychological conditions or cognitive impairment interfering with study participation
- History of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with severity grade greater than 2
- Uncontrolled thyroid disorders or recent changes in hormone therapy
- Underlying muscle diseases including myopathy or muscular dystrophies
- Confirmed rheumatoid arthritis, AIDS, or type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus
- History of cancer within the last 6 months
- Use of medications or natural health products compromising study safety or outcomes
- Known allergy to study medications or components
- Allergy to aspirin/salicylate or history of ASA-sensitive asthma or bronchospasm
- Use of medications affecting muscle or immune function such as newly initiated cholesterol-lowering drugs, glucocorticoids, MAO inhibitors, additional 2-HOBA, Vitamin D or HMB supplements, anabolic steroids, SARMs, corticosteroids, GLP-1s, or weight loss medications
- Excessive protein supplementation above 2.0 g/kg/day
- Participation in pulmonary rehabilitation or structured exercise programs during the study period
- Any new non-permitted interventions started during the study that may affect outcomes or safety
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
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Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 90 days
Participants take dietary supplements (HMB, 2-HOBA, both, or placebo) twice daily to evaluate effects on muscle mass, strength, cognitive function, and other health markers.
Visits scheduled during the 90-day supplementation period to monitor progress and collect data
Duration - Up to 12 weeks after treatment
Participants are monitored to assess ongoing effects of the supplements on health outcomes after treatment ends.
Follow-up visits to assess muscle mass, fitness, immune function, cognitive function, and inflammatory markers
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
RI-MUHC
Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H4A 3J1
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
S
Sharmila Program manager
G
Guy Hajj Boutros, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
QUADRUPLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
PREVENTION
Number of Arms
4
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