Safety and Efficacy of Deoxycholic Acid Injection for Reduction of Upper Inner Thigh Fat
Phase: EARLY_PHASE1
Conditions: Adiposity
Sponsor: University of California, San Diego

 
 
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SAFETY AND EFFICACY OF DEOXYCHOLIC ACID INJECTION FOR 
REDUCTION OF UPPER INNER THIGH FAT 
 
                                                   Detailed Protocol 
 
Principal Investigator 
Arisa Ortiz, MD 
Director, Laser and Cosmetic Dermatology 
Assistant Clinical Professor 
Department of Dermatology 
UC San Diego 
 
 
8899 University Center Ln. #350 
San Diego, CA 92122 
Phone: 818-744-3322 
Fax: 858-822-6985 
arisaortiz@gmail.com 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
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Proposed starting date: August 1, 2018 
 
Table of Contents 
I.   
Background and Significance 
 
3 
II.   
Specific Aims  
 
 
 
5 
III.  
Subject Selection 
 
 
 
6 
IV.  
Subject Enrollment  
 
 
7 
V.  
Study Procedures  
 
 
 
9 
VI.  
Biostatistical Analysis 
 
 
17 
VII. 
Risks and Discomforts 
 
 
20 
VIII. 
Potential Benefits 
 
 
 
20 
IX.  
Cost and Remuneration 
 
 
21 
X.  
Monitoring and Quality Assurance 
21 
      XI.  
Outcomes Monitoring 
 
 
22 
 
 
      XII.           Adverse Event Reporting Guidelines         22 
      XIII.         References                                                      23 
      Appendix I. Subject Self-Rating Scale                          26 
      Appendix II. Post-Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire 27 
 
      
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
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I. 
Background and Significance 
A. Historical background 
Deoxycholic acid (ATX-101; Kybella) is an FDA-approved injectable for the 
treatment of submental fat. Unwanted upper inner thigh fat is a common aesthetic 
complaint from patients, and current treatment options include liposuction and 
cryolipolysis (CoolSculpting, Allergan, Irvine, CA). Liposuction is an invasive surgical 
procedure, with rare but serious risks including nerve damage, bleeding, fat embolization, 
and complications from anesthesia.1 Cryolipolysis is a non-invasive option, but adverse 
effects include up to two weeks of pain and aching; temporary redness, swelling, or 
bruising; and very rarely, paradoxical adipose hyperplasia.2 At this time, it is not known 
if deoxycholic acid may be a safe and effective treatment for upper inner thigh fat. 
Phosphatidylcholine, a fat-emulsifying soybean lecithin, was initially developed 
for adipocytolysis. It was combined with deoxycholic acid, a secondary bile acid, to 
increase solubility.3 In vitro and ex vivo studies later suggested deoxycholic acid, rather 
than phosphatidylcholine, as the major active compound.3-5 Deoxycholic acid is thought 
to cause direct adipocyte cell membrane damage.3,4 Histologically, it appears that 
deoxycholic acid causes adipocytolysis by inducing an inflammatory reaction, which 
involves predominantly neutrophils, followed by T-cells. Debris is digested by 
macrophages, and delayed fibrosis is also present.3,6-8 
 
Phosphatidylcholine with deoxycholic acid (PC/DC) has been studied as an agent 
for injection lipolysis in animal and human studies.6-8 Lipostabil, a PC/DC formulation, 
has been advertised in South America, South Africa, and Europe for several decades.9 
However, high-quality clinical trials are lacking, and PC/DC has not been developed by 
the pharmaceutical industry in the United States.3 On the other hand, deoxycholic acid for 
reduction of submental fat has been studied extensively; with four double-blind, multi-
center, randomized clinical trials, enrolling about 1800 patients, demonstrating its safety 
and efficacy.3,10-13 It is marketed as Kybella (Allergan, Irvine, CA), and is a popular 
FDA-approved cosmetic treatment. Deoxycholic acid has been proposed for use in body 
contouring in areas other than submental fat.14 There are no studies in the literature on the 
use of deoxycholic acid (Kybella) for the treatment of unwanted upper inner thigh fat.  

 
 
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B. Previous preclinical or clinical studies 
 
Deoxycholic acid (ATX-101, Kybella) has been found in several large double-
blind, randomized clinical trials to be safe and effective for the treatment of submental 
fat.3,10-13 In phase 3 trials, doses of deoxycholic acid 1 mg/cm2 and 2 mg/cm2 were 
evaluated.10   Subjects were treated with a maximum of four treatment sessions, spaced 
approximately 28 days apart, and follow-up was performed at 12 weeks.  At each 
treatment session, patients were treated with a maximum of 50 injections. Maximum 
deoxycholic acid per injection was 0.2 mL, for a total maximum dose of 10 mL per 
treatment session.10 Efficacy was quantitatively demonstrated through caliper 
measurements, a subject self-rating scale (0 to 6), a clinician-reported submental fat 
rating scale, patient-reported submental fat rating scale, and assessment of skin laxity.10 
Both 1 mg/cm2 and 2 mg/cm2 doses were safe and well-tolerated, and more effective than 
placebo in reducing submental fat.10  At 12-week follow-up, patient satisfaction with 
appearance was 65.4% with deoxycholic acid 2 mg/cm2, compared with 60.8% with 
deoxycholic acid 1 mg/cm2, and 29.0% with placebo.10 Common side effects were mild-
to-moderate pain, swelling, ecchymosis, numbness, bleeding, and induration including 
fibrosis.3,10-13 Moderate-to-severe pain was reported in 60% of deoxycholic acid patients, 
but lasted a median of only 1 day.10 Temporary nerve injury, affecting the marginal 
mandibular nerve and resulting in asymmetric smile, occurred in 2.1% of patients treated 
with deoxycholic acid, and all occurred with the 2 mg/cm2 dose. All nerve injury resolved 
without sequelae during the study period.10 There were no clinically significant changes 
in laboratory values or vital signs. No deaths were reported in association with 
deoxycholic acid.3,10-13  
 
Treatment of localized fat deposits with phosphatidylcholine injection was 
performed in 50 patients for body contouring; treated areas varied by patient, and 
included abdomen, arms, and thighs. Subjects received one to four treatments of 5 mL 
(250 mg/5 mL) phosphatidylcholine in an 80 cm2 area. Pre-procedure and post-procedure 
photographs showed that the treatment was effective in reducing localized fat deposits. 
With no weight gain, no recurrence was noted in fat deposits over 2-year follow-up. Side 
effects were bruising, edema, and erythema, lasting 48 to 72 hours. Post-inflammatory 

 
 
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nodules were sometimes noted, resolving within 30 days at most. Otherwise, no atrophy 
or other side effects were noted.15  
 
One pilot study of PC/DC for injection lipolysis of the hips and upper lateral thigh 
showed favorable safety and efficacy results. Fifteen women were treated. Fat reduction  
was confirmed with circumferential measurements and ultrasound. Treatment with  
PC/DC was well-tolerated, with side effects limited to local injection-site reactions,  
including pain, erythema, and edema; itching and bruising occurred in one subject.  
Reduction in cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein was noted; this was  
attributed to phosphatidylcholine. There were no significant adverse lab abnormalities  
associated with the procedure, including in renal and liver function. The procedure was  
well tolerated and 73% of patients reported satisfaction.16  
 
  
There are no previous reports of deoxycholic acid injection alone as a treatment for 
upper inner thigh fat.  
 
C. Rationale behind the proposed research, and potential benefits to 
patients and/or society 
         The use of deoxycholic acid injection for treatment of upper inner thigh fat has not 
been previously studied. Deoxycholic acid injection has been studied extensively for 
submental fat. The proposed doses of deoxycholic acid in the present clinical trial have 
been shown to be systemically safe based on previous large clinical trials.3,10-13 The 
concept of an injectable treatment for body contouring has been present for years,15 but 
high-quality studies are lacking. A pilot study of phosphatidylcholine together with 
deoxycholic acid in the region of the hips and thighs has yielded safe and favorable 
results.16 Due to the safety and effectiveness of deoxycholic acid for submental fat, we 
hypothesize that deoxycholic acid is a safe and effective treatment for upper inner thigh 
fat. The results of the present clinical trial may lead to development of a new treatment 
option for upper inner thigh fat.  
 
II. 
Specific Aims 
A. Specific objectives and hypotheses to be tested in the research project 
 

 
 
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This prospective, open-label, single-arm, single-center clinical study at the University of 
California, San Diego Department of Dermatology is designed primarily to investigate 
the safety and efficacy of deoxycholic acid injection for the treatment of upper inner 
thigh fat. The secondary objective of this study is evaluation of patient-reported 
satisfaction outcomes after treatment of upper inner thigh fat with deoxycholic acid 
injection.  
 
III. 
Subject Selection 
A. Inclusion/Exclusion criteria 
Inclusion 
1.  Adults aged 18 to 65 
2.  Discrete area of mild-to-moderate excess upper inner thigh fat, amenable to treatment 
at the discretion of the investigator 
3.  Subjects who score 0 (extremely dissatisfied) to 2 (slightly dissatisfied) on a Subject   
     Self-Rating Scale, pertaining to upper inner thigh fat, with the scale ranging from 0  
     (extremely dissatisfied) to 6 (extremely satisfied) 
4.  Body mass index (BMI) less than 30 kg/m2 
5.  Stable body weight for previous 6 months (weight within 10 pounds of baseline) 
6.  Subjects must be in stable health, as confirmed by medical history, per investigator 
judgment 
7.  Subjects must be able to read, sign, and understand the informed consent 
8. Subjects must we willing to avoid any other treatments to the inner thigh, including 
cryolipolysis and liposuction, during the study period. 
9. Subjects must be willing to avoid changes in diet or exercise, any weight loss 
program, and any weight loss supplements, during the study period.  
10. Subjects must be able and willing to avoid anticoagulation (aspirin, warfarin, 
hepain, rivaroxaban) for 1 week prior to each study treatment  
 
Exclusion: 
1. History of treatment for inner thigh fat, including cryolipolysis, noninvasive 
body contouring or liposuction in the last year 

 
 
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2.  Previous trauma or surgery to pelvis or thighs 
3.  Subjects with an unstable medical condition, as deemed by the investigator 
4.  Women who are pregnant or lactating or plan to become pregnant during the study 
period 
5. Lymphedema or edema of thigh 
6. Excessive skin laxity in the treatment area, as judged by the investigator 
7. Severe thigh cellulite 
8. Subjects with any disease in the treatment area, such as dermatologic disease, that may 
be exacerbated by the study treatment 
9. Subjects with any condition that may impair the evaluation of inner thigh fat 
10. Subjects with known bleeding diathesis  
11. Subjects with any known hypersensitivity to Kybella (deoxycholic acid) or any of the 
inactive ingredients: benzyl alcohol, dibasic sodium phosphate, sodium chloride, sodium 
hydroxide, hydrochloric acid 
 
B. Source of subjects and recruitment methods 
Subjects will be recruited by flyers and handouts placed in the UCSD Dermatology 
clinic. Eligible patients will be determined from the inclusion and exclusion criteria. 
Eligible patients will be informed of the proposed study and its purpose and given the 
opportunity to ask any questions. 
         
      Standard HIPAA authorization to collect research data from the subject’s medical  
      record will be obtained at the time of informed consent. 
 
C. Equitable Selection of Subjects 
The risks and benefits of the research are fairly distributed among the populations that 
stand to benefit from it. Although the risk of this study is minimal, to be prudent, 
pregnant women will be excluded because of the potential harm posed to the fetus.  
 
IV. 
Subject Enrollment 
A. Number of subjects 
15 subjects will be enrolled in the study.  
 

 
 
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B. Methods of enrollment 
 
Subjects interested in participating in the study may contact one of the 
investigators.  The study objectives, inclusion and exclusion criteria, possible risks and 
benefits of the study, and the information included in the informed consent form shall be 
discussed with prospective study participants.  Subjects who believe they meet the 
exclusion and inclusion criteria and remain interested in the study shall be invited to 
come in for their screening visit.  During the screening visit, the investigator will 
interview the subject and perform a simple clinical examination, particularly examining 
the thighs. Following the investigator's determination that the inclusion and exclusion 
criteria are met, the subject be invited to participate in the study. 
 
C. Procedures for obtaining informed consent 
Written informed consent must be obtained from each subject prior to enrollment in 
the study (see attached). The investigator will explain the nature of the study, its purpose 
and associated procedures, the expected duration and the potential benefits and risks of 
participation to each subject prior to his/her entry into the study. The information given 
will be based on a subject informed consent document approved for this study. Each 
subject will have ample opportunity to ask questions and will be informed about the right 
to withdraw from the study at any time without any disadvantage and without having to 
provide reasons for this decision. 
Following this informative discussion, the subject will be asked if he/she is willing to 
sign and date the subject informed consent document (attached). Only if the subject 
voluntarily signs the informed consent document may he/she enter the study. 
The subject will receive a copy of the signed and dated document. No study related 
procedures shall commence prior to obtaining subject informed consent. 
The informed consent sheet is to remain in the investigator’s files. By signing the 
informed consent, the investigator (or his/her representative) provides support that he/she 
has participated in the consent process with the subject. 
The subject informed consent document will be revised whenever important new 
information becomes available that may be relevant to the subject’s consent, or there is 
an amendment to the protocol which necessitates a change to the content of the subject 

 
 
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information/informed consent document. Any revision to the informed consent 
document, and written information must receive the IRB/IEC’s approval prior to use. The 
investigator will inform the subject of changes in timely manner and will ask the subject 
to confirm his/her interest in continued study participation by his/her signature on the 
revised informed consent document. 
In addition, Non-English speaking subjects will be given an approved translation of 
the consent form and the Experimental Subject's Bill of Rights in their native language to 
sign. Unless the researchers are fluent in the subject’s language, a qualified translator will 
be included in the consent process and will sign his or her name at the end of the 
approved translated consent form. 
D. Treatment assignment and randomization  
There will be no randomization. Study participants will be treated with 
deoxycholic acid (Kybella) 10 mg/ mL injected subcutaneously, targeting the medial 
thigh deep fat compartment (pre-fascial). Subjects will receive deoxycholic acid 2 mg/ 
cm2, with injections of 0.2 mL spaced evenly 1 cm apart within the treatment area. 
Bilateral upper inner thighs will be treated. Each treatment will consist of a maximum of 
8 mL (40 injection sites) of the study drug, with a maximum of 4 mL (20 injection sites) 
of the study drug for each thigh. All treatments will be performed by a study physician. 
Subjects will receive 1 to 4 treatment sessions, each spaced 6 weeks +/-  1 week. 
Treatment #2, #3, or #4 will be pursued if patient desires more treatment, and if there is 
sufficient fat for treatment, per investigator’s judgment.  
 
V. 
Study Procedures  
a) Study visits and parameters to be measured 
All visits in this study will be performed at the UCSD Dermatology Clinic, 3rd floor, 
8899 University Center Ln., San Diego, CA 92122. 
 
Screening/ Baseline Visit (Visit 1, Day -14 to 1) 
This visit is expected to take approximately 1 hour.  The following describes the 
procedures performed at this visit. 

 
 
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1. Prior to any screening assessments, informed consent will be obtained by the 
investigator.  When the subject fully understands the nature of the study and its risks, 
the subject will be asked to sign and date the informed consent form.  The 
investigator will then sign and date the form.   
2. A detailed medical history of information pertaining to treatment will be obtained. 
3. The investigator will perform a relevant physical examination.  
4. Patient's weight will be obtained.  
5. The subject will be asked to complete the Subject Self-Rating Scale (0 to 6 scale). 
6. If the subject meets the criteria for the study, the subject will be assigned the next 
consecutive subject number.  
7.  Females of childbearing age will undergo a urine pregnancy test  
8.   The investigator will determine the patient's eligibility for the study. 
 
First treatment (Visit 2, Day 1) 
The treatment visit is expected to take approximately 1 hour. The first treatment may be 
combined with Screening/ Baseline.  
 
Prior to Kybella treatment: 
1. 
Patient will be asked to complete the Subject Self-Rating Scale, rated from 0 to 6. 
2. 
Patient’s weight will be obtained. 
3. 
Concomitant medications and procedures will be confirmed and recorded. 
4. 
The investigator will perform a relevant physical examination. 
5. 
Thigh circumference measurement will be obtained with anthropometric tape  
            measure. 
• Thigh circumference will be measured at site of maximum bulge at Screening. 
Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, such that thigh 
circumference measurements at all following study assessments are performed at 
the same site. 
6. 
Caliper measurement of inner thigh skin-fold thickness will be obtained. 

 
 
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•     Caliper measurement will be performed at site of maximum bulge at Screening. 
Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, such that caliper 
measurements at all following study assessments are performed at the same site. 
7. 
Thigh gap measurement will be obtained. 
•     Patient will be asked to stand with legs at a fixed distance apart. Measurement 
will be performed between sites of maximum bulge at Screening. Vertical 
distance of these sites from the floor will be measured, such that thigh gap 
measurements at all following study assessments are performed at the same sites. 
8. 
Pre-treatment photographs will be taken.  
• Patients will be asked to stand with feet apart at a uniform distance. 
Anteroposterior and posteroanterior photos will be taken. 
 
Treatment:  
9. 
Deoxycholic acid (Kybella) 10 mg/ mL will be injected subcutaneously, targeting 
the medial thigh deep fat compartment (pre-fascial). Subjects will receive 
deoxycholic acid 2 mg/ cm2, with injections of 0.2 mL spaced evenly 1 cm apart 
within the treatment area. Bilateral thighs will be treated. Each treatment will 
consist of a maximum of 8 mL (40 injection sites) of the study drug, with a 
maximum of 4 mL (20 injection sites) of the study drug for each thigh. All 
treatments will be performed by a study physician. 
 
Post-Treatment Phone Call #1 (Day 3) 
Phone call expected to take 5-10 minutes.  
1. Two days after treatment, patient will be called and asked to report adverse events 
since last treatment. All adverse events will be recorded.  
 
Second treatment (+/-) (Day 36 to 50) 
The treatment visit is expected to take approximately 1 hour.  
 
Prior to Kybella treatment: 

 
 
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1.       Patient will be asked to complete the Subject Self-Rating Scale, rated from 0 
to 6. 
2.       Patient’s weight will be obtained. 
3.       Concomitant medications and procedures will be confirmed and recorded. 
4.       Adverse events will be recorded.  
5.       The investigator will perform a relevant physical examination. 
6.       Thigh circumference measurement will be obtained with anthropometric tape  
            measure. 
• Thigh circumference will be measured at site of maximum bulge at Screening. 
Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, such that thigh 
circumference measurements at all following study assessments are performed at 
the same site. 
7.      Caliper measurement of inner thigh skin-fold thickness will be obtained. 
• Caliper measurement will be performed at site of maximum bulge at Screening. 
Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, such that caliper 
measurements at all following study assessments are performed at the same site. 
8.     Thigh gap measurement will be obtained. 
• Patient will be asked to stand with legs at a fixed distance apart. Measurement 
will be performed between sites of maximum bulge at Screening. Vertical 
distance of these sites from the floor will be measured, such that thigh gap 
measurements at all following study assessments are performed at the same sites. 
9.     Pre-treatment photographs will be taken.  
•   Patients will be asked to stand with feet apart at a uniform distance. 
Anteroposterior and posteroanterior photos will be taken. 
 
Treatment:  
10. 
Deoxycholic acid (Kybella) 10 mg/ mL will be injected subcutaneously, targeting 
the medial thigh deep fat compartment (pre-fascial). Subjects will receive 
deoxycholic acid 2 mg/ cm2, with injections of 0.2 mL spaced evenly 1 cm apart 
within the treatment area. Bilateral thighs will be treated. Each treatment will consist 
of a maximum of 8 mL (40 injection sites) of the study drug, with a maximum of 4 

 
 
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mL (20 injection sites) of the study drug for each thigh. All treatments will be 
performed by a study physician. 
 
Post-Treatment Phone Call #2 (Day 38 to 52) 
Phone call expected to take 5-10 minutes.  
1. Two days after treatment, patient will be called and asked to report adverse events 
since last treatment. All adverse events will be recorded.  
 
Third Treatment (+/-) (Day 71 to 99)  
The treatment visit is expected to take approximately 1 hour.  
 
Prior to Kybella treatment: 
1.        Patient will be asked to complete the Subject Self-Rating Scale, rated from 0 to 
6. 
2.       Patient’s weight will be obtained. 
3.       Concomitant medications and procedures will be confirmed and recorded. 
4.       Adverse events will be recorded.  
5.       The investigator will perform a relevant physical examination. 
6.       Thigh circumference measurement will be obtained with anthropometric tape  
            measure. 
• Thigh circumference will be measured at site of maximum bulge at Screening. 
Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, such that thigh 
circumference measurements at all following study assessments are performed at 
the same site. 
7.      Caliper measurement of inner thigh skin-fold thickness will be obtained. 
• Caliper measurement will be performed at site of maximum bulge at Screening. 
Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, such that caliper 
measurements at all following study assessments are performed at the same site. 
8.     Thigh gap measurement will be obtained. 
• Patient will be asked to stand with legs at a fixed distance apart. Measurement 
will be performed between sites of maximum bulge at Screening. Vertical 

 
 
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distance of these sites from the floor will be measured, such that thigh gap 
measurements at all following study assessments are performed at the same sites. 
9.     Pre-treatment photographs will be taken.  
•   Patients will be asked to stand with feet apart at a uniform distance. 
Anteroposterior and posteroanterior photos will be taken. 
 
Treatment:  
10. 
Deoxycholic acid (Kybella) 10 mg/ mL will be injected subcutaneously, targeting 
the medial thigh deep fat compartment (pre-fascial). Subjects will receive 
deoxycholic acid 2 mg/ cm2, with injections of 0.2 mL spaced evenly 1 cm apart 
within the treatment area. Bilateral thighs will be treated. Each treatment will consist 
of a maximum of 8 mL (40 injection sites) of the study drug, with a maximum of 4 
mL (20 injection sites) of the study drug for each thigh. All treatments will be 
performed by a study physician. 
 
Post-Treatment Phone Call #3 (~Day 73 to 101) 
Phone call expected to take 5-10 minutes.  
1. Two days after treatment, patient will be called and asked to report adverse events 
since last treatment. All adverse events will be recorded.  
 
Fourth Treatment (+/-) (Day 106 to 148) 
The treatment visit is expected to take approximately 1 hour.  
 
Prior to Kybella treatment: 
1.         Patient will be asked to complete the Subject Self-Rating Scale, rated from 0 
to 6. 
2.       Patient’s weight will be obtained. 
3.       Concomitant medications and procedures will be confirmed and recorded. 
4.       Adverse events will be recorded.  
5.       The investigator will perform a relevant physical examination. 
6.       Thigh circumference measurement will be obtained with anthropometric tape  

 
 
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            measure. 
• Thigh circumference will be measured at site of maximum bulge at Screening. 
Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, such that thigh 
circumference measurements at all following study assessments are performed at 
the same site. 
7.      Caliper measurement of inner thigh skin-fold thickness will be obtained. 
• 
Caliper measurement will be performed at site of maximum bulge at Screening. 
Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, such that caliper 
measurements at all following study assessments are performed at the same site. 
8.     Thigh gap measurement will be obtained. 
• 
Patient will be asked to stand with legs at a fixed distance apart. Measurement 
will be performed between sites of maximum bulge at Screening. Vertical 
distance of these sites from the floor will be measured, such that thigh gap 
measurements at all following study assessments are performed at the same sites. 
9.     Pre-treatment photographs will be taken.  
• Patients will be asked to stand with feet apart at a uniform distance. 
Anteroposterior and posteroanterior photos will be taken. 
 
Treatment:  
10. 
Deoxycholic acid (Kybella) 10 mg/ mL will be injected subcutaneously, targeting 
the medial thigh deep fat compartment (pre-fascial). Subjects will receive 
deoxycholic acid 2 mg/ cm2, with injections of 0.2 mL spaced evenly 1 cm apart 
within the treatment area. Bilateral thighs will be treated. Each treatment will consist 
of a maximum of 8 mL (40 injection sites) of the study drug, with a maximum of 4 
mL (20 injection sites) of the study drug for each thigh. All treatments will be 
performed by a study physician. 
 
Post-Treatment Phone Call #4 (~Day 108 to 150) 
Phone call expected to take 5-10 minutes.  
1. Two days after treatment, patient will be called and asked to report adverse events 
since last treatment. All adverse events will be recorded.  

 
 
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Week 4 Follow Up (~Day 134 to 176) 
Visit expected to take 1 hour. The visit will take place 4 weeks after the last treatment.  
 
1. Patient will be asked to complete Subject Self-Rating Scale, rated from 0 to 6.  
2. Patient will be asked to complete Post-Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire. 
3. Concomitant meds and procedures will be confirmed and recorded.  
4. Adverse events will be confirmed and recorded.  
5. Patient weight will be obtained.  
6. A relevant physical exam will be performed by the investigator.  
7.  Thigh circumference measurement will be obtained with anthropometric tape 
measure. 
• Thigh circumference will be measured at site of maximum bulge at Screening. 
Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, such that thigh 
circumference measurements at all following study assessments are performed at 
the same site. 
8. Caliper measurement of inner thigh skin-fold thickness will be obtained. 
• 
Caliper measurement will be performed at site of maximum bulge at Screening. 
Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, such that caliper 
measurements at all following study assessments are performed at the same site. 
9. Thigh gap measurement will be obtained. 
• 
Patient will be asked to stand with legs at a fixed distance apart. Measurement 
will be performed between sites of maximum bulge at Screening. Vertical 
distance of these sites from the floor will be measured, such that thigh gap 
measurements at all following study assessments are performed at the same sites. 
10.    Follow-up photographs will be taken.  
• Patients will be asked to stand with feet apart at a uniform distance. 
Anteroposterior and posteroanterior photos will be taken. 
 
Week 12 Follow Up (~Day 190 to 232) 
Visit expected to take 1 hour. The visit will take place 12 weeks after the last treatment.  

 
 
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1. Patient will be asked to complete Subject Self-Rating Scale, rated from 0 to 6.  
2. Patient will be asked to complete Post-Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire. 
3. Concomitant meds and procedures will be confirmed and recorded.  
4. Adverse events will be confirmed and recorded.  
5. Patient weight will be obtained.  
6. A relevant physical exam will be performed by the investigator.  
7. Thigh circumference measurement will be obtained with anthropometric tape  
measure. 
• Thigh circumference will be measured at site of maximum bulge at Screening. 
Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, such that thigh 
circumference measurements at all following study assessments are performed at 
the same site. 
8. Caliper measurement of inner thigh skin-fold thickness will be obtained. 
• 
Caliper measurement will be performed at site of maximum bulge at Screening. 
Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, such that caliper 
measurements at all following study assessments are performed at the same site. 
9.Thigh gap measurement will be obtained. 
• 
Patient will be asked to stand with legs at a fixed distance apart. Measurement 
will be performed between sites of maximum bulge at Screening. Vertical 
distance of these sites from the floor will be measured, such that thigh gap 
measurements at all following study assessments are performed at the same sites. 
10.    Follow-up photographs will be taken.  
• Patients will be asked to stand with feet apart at a uniform distance. 
Anteroposterior and posteroanterior photos will be taken. 
b) Drugs to be used 
Deoxycholic acid (Kybella) 10 mg/ mL will be injected subcutaneously, targeting the medial 
thigh deep   fat compartment (pre-fascial). 
 
 

 
 
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c) Data to be collected and when data is to be collected 
Data to be collected throughout the study includes the items listed in Schedule of 
Events. 
 
VI. 
Biostatistical Analysis 
A. Study endpoints 
1. Primary Endpoint: 
 The primary endpoint will be safety endpoint, as defined by the incidence rate of 
patients who experience: 
a) Any adverse event (AE) ascertained by patient report or physician evaluation 
b) One or more serious adverse events (SAE) as defined by CTCAEv4 
c) Adverse events leading to study drug discontinuation. 
 
2. Secondary Endpoints:  
a) Efficacy, defined as reduction in inner thigh fat, measured as follows:  
i. Change in thigh circumference, as recorded with 
anthropometric tape measure.  
• Thigh circumference will be measured at site of maximum bulge at 
Screening. Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, 
such that thigh circumference measurements at all following study 
assessments are performed at the same site. 
ii. Change in inner thigh skin-fold thickness, as 
measured by calipers 
• Caliper measurement will be performed at site of maximum bulge at 
Screening. Vertical distance of this site from the floor will be measured, 
such that caliper measurements at all following study assessments are 
performed at the same site. 
iii. Increase in “thigh gap,” measured with patient standing 
with legs at a fixed distance apart. Measurement will be 
performed between sites of maximum bulge at 
Screening. Vertical distance of these sites from the 
floor will be measured, such that thigh gap 

 
 
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measurements at all following study assessments are 
performed at the same sites. 
 
iv. Percent accuracy by three blinded physicians in 
correctly identifying baseline photographs, upon 
independent review of before-and-after clinical 
photographs of the treatment area. 
 
• Patients will be asked to stand with feet apart at a uniform distance. 
Anteroposterior and posteroanterior photos will be taken. 
 
 
b) Patient satisfaction related to study treatment: 
i. Improvement in patient satisfaction, as measured by 
Subject Self-Rating Scale, a 0 (extremely dissatisfied) to 6 
(extremely satisfied) scale 
ii. Scores on additional post-treatment patient satisfaction 
questionnaire  
 
B. Statistical methods 
This is a small descriptive study, with the primary safety endpoint of the incidence rate of 
patients who experience:  
1) Any adverse event (AE) ascertained by patient report, physician evaluation, or 
laboratory value 
2) One or more serious adverse events (SAE) as defined by CTCAEv4 
3) Adverse events leading to study drug discontinuation. 
The safety analysis will be based on the safety population, which is defined as all patients 
who have received at least one dose of study medication and who have had at least one 
post-baseline safety evaluation.  
Adverse events will be explored for trends.  

 
 
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The efficacy analysis will be based on the intent-to-treat (ITT) population. In the ITT 
population, patients will be counted in the treatment group upon informed consent and 
completion of Baseline measurements, regardless of receiving any dose of study 
medication.  
In the case of a subject’s early termination from study, missing values will be imputed 
using last observation carried forward (LOCF) method. 
Baseline values will be those values measured on day of screening, which may be 
combined with Day 1. 
 
Reduction in inner thigh fat, as measured by tape measure and calipers, will be presented 
as change in millimeters or centimeters, and presented descriptively. Percent accuracy by 
three independent blinded physicians in correctly identifying baseline photographs, when 
comparing before-and-after clinical photographs of the treatment area, will be reported.  
Patient satisfaction scores on Subject Self-Rating scale and post-treatment patient 
satisfaction questionnaire will be presented descriptively. 
 
VII. 
Risks and Discomforts 
A. 
Complications of treatment procedure/ drug side effects and toxicities 
Deoxycholic acid will be injected subcutaneously in the treatment area by the 
principal investigator Dr. Arisa Ortiz, or by a member of the study team who is a UCSD 
Dermatology resident physician, under direction of Dr. Arisa Ortiz.  
     
 Common side effects of deoxycholic acid injection are injection site reactions, 
including swelling, pain, numbness, redness, and hardness of treatment area. Bruising, 
itching, warmth, hardness, tingling or burning sensation, skin tightness, hair loss, open 
sores (ulcers), damage, and tissue cell-death (necrosis) around the injection site are other 
possible side effects. 
Deoxycholic acid injection in submental fat has been rarely associated with nerve 
injury, headache, mouth or throat pain, hypertension, nausea, or difficulty swallowing.  
Patients will be asked regarding allergy to medications. Allergic reaction may occur 
with any medication.  
 
Subjects will be provided post-treatment instructions (see attached).   

 
 
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B. 
Psychosocial (non-medical) risks 
We do not anticipate any psychosocial risks due to this study.  However, if any 
participants experience emotional distress during the study we will assist them to resolve 
this stress with appropriate referrals.  Steps to prevent this outcome will include detailed 
explanation of the study and what to expect from the study treatment. 
 
VIII. Potential Benefits 
A. Potential benefits to participating individuals 
Subjects participating in the study may receive the benefit of reduced inner thigh fat due 
to the study treatment.  
B.  Potential benefits to society 
The results of this study will help us acquire information that may lead to the 
development of a new treatment for reduction of inner thigh fat.  
  
IX. 
Cost and Remuneration 
a. Remuneration 
Subjects will receive financial compensation for their participation in the study. 
Screening and treatment visits will not be compensated. Subjects will receive $50 per in-
person follow-up visit. Therefore, subjects will receive a total of $100 for completing the 
entire study.  
b. Cost 
There will be no cost to the patient to participate in this study. 
 
X. 
Monitoring and Quality Assurance 
A. Independent monitoring of source data 
At this time, we do not anticipate a need for an independent monitor as our 
monitoring of the data will be sufficient to ensure the validity and integrity of the data 
and adherence to the IRB-approved protocol.  
 
Recruitment flyers and handouts will be placed in UCSD Dermatology clinic. 
Subjects interested in participating in the study may contact one of the investigators.  The 
study objectives, inclusion and exclusion criteria, possible risks and benefits of the study, 
and the information included in the informed consent form shall be discussed with 

 
 
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prospective study participants.  Subjects who believe they meet the inclusion and 
exclusion criteria and remain interested in the study shall be invited to come in for their 
screening visit.  During the screening visit, the investigator will interview the subject and 
perform a simple clinical examination, particularly examining the thighs. Following the 
investigator's determination that the inclusion and exclusion criteria are met, the subject 
will be invited to participate in the study. 
 
We will make every effort to accurately document all data on study case report 
forms. All source data will be organized and filed into individual subject binders.  Any 
pertinent notes to file regarding the subject shall be documented by a study investigator 
and kept in the applicable subject binder.  The principal investigator shall review data on 
an ongoing and consistent basis throughout the duration of the study.  Study numbers will 
be used to deidentify patients. All subjects must be assigned a study identification 
number that is the only item that appears on the subject binder and photographs.  
Electronic digital images, labeled with the study identification number, will be stored 
both in the patient binders and on a secured hospital server. Only investigators involved 
in the study will have access to this data. Even with these precautions, there is a risk of 
loss of confidentiality. If this occurs, the subject will be notified immediately.  
This study shall be performed in accordance with all applicable federal, state and 
local laws and regulations, including without limitation 21 CFR Parts 50 and 56 and the 
Health Insurance portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”) and any 
regulations and official guidance promulgated thereunder.   
B. Safety monitoring 
Safety data will be collected at each visit of the study by study investigators and 
will be monitored by the Principal Investigator (Dr. Ortiz). Investigators will perform 
overall efficacy assessments of this study.  The Principal Investigator will be reviewing 
data on an ongoing and consistent basis throughout the duration of the study. Dr. Ortiz 
will ensure that the study is conducted according to the protocol and that the data was 
accurately recorded. The Principal Investigator (Dr. Ortiz) is responsible for protecting 
the rights, safety, and welfare of subjects under his/her care. The Principal Investigator 
will be responsible for this review and for determining whether the research should be 

 
 
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altered or stopped. If any severe adverse effect or death directly related to the procedure 
proposed occurs, Principal Investigator will report to the IRB. 
 
XI. 
Outcomes monitoring 
Any adverse events will be reviewed and analyzed by the Principal Investigator as 
soon as the event occurs and will be documented in the subject’s binder. Any unexpected 
adverse reactions will be reported by telephone to the IRB within 48 hours of observing 
the event. If a unexpected side effect occurs, Principal Investigator will also report 
adverse events to the FDA.  
 
XII. 
Adverse event reporting guidelines 
The principal investigator will follow the UCSD Human Research Committee guidelines 
for Adverse Event Reporting. 
 
XIII. References 
 
1. Platt M S, Kohler L J, Ruiz R, Cohle S D, & Ravichandran P. Deaths associated 
with liposuction: case reports and review of the literature. Journal of Forensic 
Sciences. 2002;47(1):205-207. 
2. Ingargiola M J, Motakef S, Chung M T, Vasconez H C, & Sasaki G H. 
Cryolipolysis for fat reduction and body contouring: safety and efficacy of current 
treatment paradigms. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. 2015;135(6):1581-1590. 
3. Wollina U, & Goldman A. ATX-101 for reduction of submental fat. Expert 
opinion on pharmacotherapy. 2015;16(5):755-762. 
4. Rotunda A M, Suzuki H, Moy R L, & Kolodney M S. Detergent effects of sodium 
deoxycholate are a major feature of an injectable phosphatidylcholine formulation 
used for localized fat dissolution. Dermatologic Surgery. 2004;30(7):1001-1008. 
5. Hübner N, Horch R E, Polykandriotis E, Rau T, & Dragu A. A histopathologic 
and immunohistochemical study on liquification of human adipose tissue ex vivo. 
Aesthetic plastic surgery. 2014;38(5):976-984. 

 
 
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6. Bechara F G, Sand M, Hoffmann K, Sand D, Altmeyer P, et al. Fat tissue after 
lipolysis of lipomas: a histopathological and immunohistochemical study. Journal 
of Cutaneous Pathology. 2007;34(7):552-557. 
7. Bechara F G, Mannherz H G, Jacob M, Mazur A J, Sand M, et al. Induction of fat 
cell necrosis in human fat tissue after treatment with phosphatidylcholine and 
deoxycholate. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and 
Venereology. 2012;26(2):180-185. 
8. Park E, Kim H, Kim M, & Oh H. Histological changes after treatment for 
localized fat deposits with phosphatidylcholine and sodium deoxycholate. Journal 
of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2013;12(3):240-243. 
9. V. Leroy Young. Lipostabil: The Effect of Phosphatidylcholine on Subcutaneous 
Fat. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2003; 23(5): 413–417.  
10. McDiarmid J, Ruiz JB, Lee D, et al. Results from a pooled analysis of two 
            European, randomized, placebo controlled, Phase III studies of ATX-101 
for the pharmacologic reduction of excess submental fat. Aesthet Plast Surg; 2014; 
38(5):849-60. 
11. Rzany B, Griffiths T, Walker P, et al. Reduction of unwanted submental fat with 
ATX-101 (deoxycholic acid), an adipocytolytic injectable treatment: results from 
a Phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Br J Dermatol. 
2014;170(2):445-53.  
12. Ascher B, Hoffmann K, Walker P, et al. Efficacy, patient-reported outcomes and 
safety profile of ATX-101 (deoxycholic acid). An injectable drug for the 
reduction of unwanted submental fat: results from a Phase III, randomized, 
placebo-controlled study. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2014; 38(12):1707-15. 
13.  Dayan SH, Jones DH, Carrruthers J, et al. A pooled analysis of the safety and 
efficacy results of the multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo controlled 
Phase III REFINE-1 and REFINE-2 trials of ATX-101, a submental contouring 
injectable drug for the reduction of submental fat. Plast Reconstr 2014;134(4 
Suppl 1):123. 
14. Sykes J M, Allak A, & Klink B. Future Applications of Deoxycholic Acid in 
Body Contouring. Journal of drugs in dermatology. 2017;16(1):43-46. 

 
 
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15. Rittes P G. The use of phosphatidylcholine for correction of localized fat deposits. 
Aesthetic plastic surgery. 2003;27(4):315-318. 
16. Hunter N S, El Tawdy A M, Hegazy R A, El Samanoudy S I, & El Kaffas K. A 
15-patient pilot trial of lipolysis of the hips and thighs using a 
phosphatidylcholine and deoxycholate formulation. Dermatologic Surgery. 
2013;39(5):791-794. 
 

 
 
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APPENDIX I.  Subject Self-Rating Scale  
 
How satisfied are you with the current appearance of your upper inner thighs? 
 
 
 
 
Extremely satisfied (6) 
Somewhat satisfied (5) 
Slightly satisfied (4)  
Neither satisfied nor dissatisfied (3)  
Slightly dissatisfied (2) 
Somewhat dissatisfied (1) 
Extremely dissatisfied (0) 

 
 
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APPENDIX II. Post-Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire  
 
1. Were you satisfied with the Kybella treatments you received for reduction of inner thigh 
fat?   
Yes/ No 
2. Have you noticed a reduction in inner thigh fat, compared to prior to treatments?  
 
No improvement   
0-25% improvement  
25-50% improvement  
50-75% improvement  
75-100% improvement 
 
3. Would you recommend Kybella treatments to a friend interested in reducing inner thigh 
fat?  
Yes/ No 
 
4. Considering the side effects and disadvantages, would you undergo Kybella treatment 
for reduction of inner thigh fat again? 
Yes/ No