Studies in Progress

MACULAR DEGENERATION STUDY

Researchers at the Eye Center are looking for people ages 55-78 with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) to participate in a National Institutes of Health study. Eligible participants must have good vision in at least one eye and eye examination findings consistent with AMD. Patients being sought include thosewho have been told they either have macular degeneration or a condition called drusen. No fees will be charged for the study or the nutritional supplements. Call 248-4261.

STUDY ON ADULTS WITH POOR SLEEP

Emory/Wesley Woods researchers are investigating a new medication for individuals with trouble sleeping. Adults over the age of 18 who are currently sleeping poorly may qualify for one of two studies. Physical examinations, medication and laboratory work will be provided free of charge to qualified volunteers. Call 728-4750.

NEW ORAL CONTRACEPTIVE STUDY

Women are being recruited for a study testing a new oral contraceptive beginning in the Reproductive Endocrinology Division of the School of Medicine's Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics. Volunteers should be over 18 years of age and may not have undergone menopause. Qualified participants may not have a history of side effects associated with taking birth control pills, such as migraine headaches or high blood pressure. Volunteers also should not have a history of severe depression, diabetes, blood clotting disorders or chronic kidney disease. All physical examinations, blood tests, PAP smears and medication associated with the study will be provided free of charge. Call 686-8121.

EMORY VACCINE STUDY FOR INFANTS

Free childhood immunizations and access to experimental vaccines are available to newborns who qualify for a new study beginning at the School of Medicine. Infants need to be 4 to 8 weeks old to qualify. All study participants will receive three doses of oral polio vaccine and Tetramune, a licensed vaccine containing DTP and Hib, routinely given at 2, 4 and 6 months of age. Children also will be randomized to receive either an investigational vaccine against pneumococcal bacteria -- the most common bacteria associated with ear infections, pneumonia and meningitis -- or an investigational vaccine against meningococcal bacteria -- the bacteria associated with meningitis and shock. The experimental vaccines are similar to the Hib Conjugate (Haemophilus influenzae) vaccine all infants receive routinely. Parents receive $20 per visit to cover travel costs. Vaccines to prevent pneumococcal and meningococcal diseases have been available for many years for children over age 2. This study will test vaccines formulated for infants under 2. Call 727-4044.

MEMORY PROBLEMS STUDIES

Persons with memory problems are needed for studies at the School of Medicine. The research will assess the effectiveness of medications in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Qualified participants need to meet criteria for probable Alzheimer's disease. Symptoms include disorientation, loss of judgment and problem-solving abilities, decreased functioning in home activities and hobbies, community affairs and personal care. Participants should otherwise be in good health. Study medications and examinations by Emory physicians based at Wesley Woods Health Center are provided free of charge. Call 728-6311.