Summary
A UK clinical trial testing puberty blockers for children questioning their gender has been paused over safety concerns. The UK's Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has requested more stringent safety measures before the trial can proceed.
Key Facts
- The trial is led by King's College London and involves children aged 11 to 15.
- Puberty blockers are meant to delay puberty in children questioning their gender identity.
- The MHRA has concerns about the current age limit for trial participants, suggesting the minimum age be raised to 14.
- The MHRA is emphasizing more detailed monitoring of participants' bone density.
- Recruitment of participants for the trial is on hold until safety concerns are resolved.
- A 2024 review led to a ban on puberty blockers for people under 18 in the UK.
- Some doctors and campaigners question the ethics and necessity of the trial, citing potential long-term harm.
