The Parkinson's and Movement Disorders Center conducts several research studies to help develop new treatments for Parkinson's Disease. Consider making a personal contribution to research by participating in a clinical trial. Clinical research may lead to the discovery of new possibilities in the control or the delay of Parkinsonian symptoms.
All study-related care is provided at no charge, including:
QUEST:
The objective of this study is to assess changes in motor function and quality of life, in patients with Parkinson's disease. It will evaluate the effects of immediate versus delayed switch to Stalevo™ on motor function and quality of life, in patients who are experiencing "end-of-dose" wearing off.
PROGENI:
This study is looking for brothers and sisters with Parkinson's disease. The study involves an interview with family members, one clinical exam and collection of blood samples. The study is funded by The National Institutes of Health.
Deep Brain Stimulation in Speech and Swallowing:
This study is for people who are scheduled to undergo electrode implantation for subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation or who have already undergone the procedure, and the impact of this procedure on speech and swallowing. Participation will involve 2-4 visits that will last approximately 2-3 hours in length.
Genetics:
The objective of this study is to identify the genetic basis of neurodegenerative disorders, characterized by disorders of movement or gait. Subjects with a movement disorder will be asked to give a blood sample which will be used to investigate the effects of the mutations at the cellular level and explore mechanisms of neurodegeneration, with the goal of developing methods of stopping disease progression and improving therapeutic strategies.
Comprehensive Care:
The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of a comprehensive care model on the care of patients with Parkinson's disease treated at the Northwestern University Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center. Participation in this study will involve the completion of questionnaires pertaining to the care received at Northwestern and the patient's disease. The patients will be asked to complete questionnaires annually.
BI 248.619 Mirapex - Impulse Control Disorders in Parkinson Disease Patients:
The objective of this study is to determine the frequency of current (past month) impulse control disorder (including either problem or pathological gambling, compulsive sexual behavior or binge-eating) is equivalent in Parkinson's disease patients currently treated with Mirapex® compared to non-Mirapex® dopamine agonists.
Eisai 302:
The objective of this study is to compare the efficacy of 2 mg and 4 mg of E2007, and placebo on duration of daily "off" state in patients with Parkinson's disease who experience end-of-dose "wearing off" motor fluctuations.
Isradipine:
The objective of this study is to establish the safety and tolerability of Isradipine in patients with normal blood pressure. This study is conducted in preparation to an National Institutes of Health submission on the efficacy of this agent as a neuroprotection in Parkinson's disease.
Contact
To learn more about our clinical trials, call (312) 503-2593 or fax us at (312) 908-5073.
Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center
675 North St. Clair Street, Suite 20-100
Chicago, IL 60611-2923
For more information about our services contact the Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center at (312) 503-4397.
