PWS is a neurogenetic disorder resulting from a loss of the paternal-only expressed genes on chromosome 15 (15 q11-13). PWS is characterized by a persistent pattern of SIB, most notably skin picking, that results in frequent medical care and attention. SIB in mental retardation and related developmental disabilities is often monitored by behavioral observation methods. Direct evaluation of skin lesions has been reported to help systematically follow wounds and wound healing. However, there are differences between the type and body location of SIB in individuals with PWS as compared to those with mental retardation. The goal of this study is to characterize SIB in PWS and to evaluate the efficacy of topiramate versus placebo in attenuating SIB in individuals with PWS.

A preliminary 8-week open-label study conducted to evaluate topiramate for appetite and weight in PWS has shown good tolerability and beneficial effects of topiramate. During that study, an unexpected and serendipitous finding was that of the six participants, four engaged in SIB and all four had noticeable symptom improvement during the 8 weeks of treatment. Three of these four have continued on topiramate therapy long term with positive results in terms of decreased self-injury.

Participants in the study will be randomized to receive either topiramate or a placebo for 6 weeks. All participants will be monitored for SIB by observation and photographic recordings of the resultant skin lesions, by reports of group home staff, and by standardized rating measurements of self-injury. At the end of 6 weeks, participants receiving topiramate will receive decreasing doses of topiramate; participants receiving placebo will continue to receive the placebo. At week 9, participants previously receiving topiramate will be given placebo and participants previously receiving placebo will be given topiramate. After 6 weeks, all participants will be entered into a 4-month open-label extension phase. Safety and efficacy measurements will be assessed during the 15 study visits; in the event of worsening SIB, the blind will be broken by the study’s medical oversight physician and, if appropriate, the participant will be placed directly into the 4-month open-label extension phase.