johnlavelle, Author at Lindner Center of HOPE

Adjunctive therapy being examined for those who have not responded to SSRI treatment

Adults who struggle with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, even with treatment, can participate in a clinical trial to help doctors evaluate an investigational medication.

Mason, OH – May 10, 2011 – Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can heavily influence the way you live your life. From interactions with family and friends to how you perform at work, OCD creates challenges that can be difficult to overcome by yourself.

A medical research study, through the Research Institute at Lindner Center of HOPE, is being conducted to evaluate an investigational medication called Ondansetron. The study focuses on patients diagnosed with OCD. Doctors want to learn more about the safety and effectiveness of two different strengths of Ondansetron when given to patients who have not adequately responded to current treatment.

Obsession is a near uncontrollable desire or perceived need where there exists a focus or preoccupation with a subject, thought, idea or emotion. “In an attempt to ease the fear and anxiety and satisfy the urges and inclinations resulting from an obsession, individuals engage in repetitive or ritualistic behavior,” said Dr. Susan McElroy, Principal Investigator and Director of the Research Institute at Lindner Center of HOPE. “Even though an individual suffering from OCD may be able to recognize the irrational nature of their behavior on an intellectual level, they still feel compelled to perform their rituals in order to gain some relief from their apprehensions,” she added. This is the first new medication looked at for OCD in 20 years.

When initially treating OCD patients, doctors often rely on medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). For many patients, these medications alone are enough to help them live fairly typical lives. For some patients, however, SSRIs do not provide adequate treatment for their OCD, which creates a need for more effective treatment options.

The study is looking for 12 individuals to participate through the Research Institute at Lindner Center of HOPE-150 total participants throughout the country. Potential participants will enter a screening process to determine if they are eligible to participate in the study. If you are determined to be eligible and agree to participate, you will enter a run-in period where you will receive a new prescription for your current SSRIs therapy. Participation in this study requires the individual be at least 18 years of age, be diagnosed with OCD and have been taking SSRIs for at least six weeks prior to the study. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding will not be allowed to participate in this study.

All study related visits, tests, and treatments will be provided to participants at no cost. In addition, reimbursement for travel may also be provided. Ondansetron has been approved for the treatment of nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, radiation or surgery but has not been approved or extensively evaluated for the treatment of OCD. For information please contact: 513-536-0710 or www.lindnercenterofhope.org/research.

About Lindner Center of HOPE:
Lindner Center of HOPE provides patient-centered, scientifically-advanced care for individuals suffering with mental illness. A state-of-the-science, free-standing mental health center and charter member of the National Network of Depression Centers, the Center provides psychiatric hospitalization for individuals age 11-years-old and older, outpatient services for all ages, research and voluntary, live-in services. The Center’s clinicians are ranked among the best providers locally, nationally and internationally. Lindner Center of HOPE is affiliated with the University of Cincinnati (UC) College of Medicine.