Our Research Program
What Does Our Research Program Consist Of?
We have been an active research site within Canada’s dementia consortium (www.c5r.ca ) since 1996. Our goal is to assist in the development of medicines that will improve outcomes for those with debilitating diseases of memory and cognition. We provide patients with opportunities to try new treatments within carefully designed research protocols.
Why Participate In Drug Treatment Studies?
- to access promising treatments not otherwise available
- to access new treatments without cost or delay
- to access specialist care and monitoring by an expert team
- to help others by advancing medical knowledge
How Does One Access Research Opportunities?
If you are already a patient in our clinic, we will inform you of research opportunities as they arise. Otherwise, call our research line directly at 416 386-9761 ext.1, or have your doctor refer you for research options.
Who Is Eligible To Participate?
Most studies at present are for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Each study has its own requirements. Our staff will determine whether a study is suitable for you. To be considered for research, you must be:
- over age of 50
- able to communicate in English
- able to come to appointments with someone who knows you well.
What Is Involved In Being Part of A Study?
Your participation in research is voluntary. The process begins with a discussion of a study of potential interest to you. We explain the purpose and nature of the study, the time requirements, and the possible risks and benefits. If you wish to proceed, you will sign an Information & Consent Form (ICF). The person accompanying you to the clinic plays an important supportive role and will be asked to participate along with you. You will receive a copy of the ICF.
Next, screening measures will be undertaken to ensure that the proposed study is safe and suitable for you. Screening typically includes: blood tests; an ECG; memory tests; and review of your general health and medicines. A scan of the brain may also be ordered.
Following screening, you will start taking study medication according to instructions provided. Most studies are designed to compare a new treatment with the best standard treatment already available or with placebo. These details will be carefully explained to you.
A schedule of study visits will be provided to you. At each visit, you will be interviewed and undergo assessments to track your progress. While enrolled in a study, you will continue taking your regular medications. We will keep your Family Doctor informed of your progress through faxed reports. Results of studies you are involved in will be shared with you as these results become available.
Once you reach the final study visit, there may be an opportunity to join an “open label study” in which the active study drug is provided to you for an additional period of time.
What Studies Are Currently Being Offered?
To download a list of our current trials click on the link below:
TMP Current Clinical Trials - last updated June 2010
For more information on specific trials, go to ClinicalTrials.gov - Dementia Trials
