Research Studies at the Obsessive-Compulsive and
Related Disorders Program

At the Stanford University Medical Center's Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders Program, we are always carrying out studies aimed at finding better treatments for obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. If you are interested in, and/or would like to learn more about the studies and the eligibility criteria, please read the summarized descriptions below. Those who wish to participate in any of the studies or who want more information should phone our research study line (650) 725-5180.

Currently, we are looking for volunteers for two studies. One is a research study of a low dose version of the drug eszopiclone (Lunesta) to treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder. The purpose of the study is to see if this drug works to treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder and if it is safe. For individual participants, this study will take approximately 10 weeks. If you qualify to participate in this study you will be assigned by chance to receive the study drug or placebo tablets. There are seven study visits. Participants will be paid $40 per visit.

The other is a study to evaluate whether switching to Cymbalta from a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) will reduce SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction in patients with depression. The study is described below.

We expect to have more studies in the future. Please check this site periodically to see what is available.

All research studies are FREE to the patients; aside from transportation and parking costs, there are no costs associated with participation. Some studies offer reimbursement.

All of the studies will involve an in-depth phone screen, during which staff will explain the studies in detail as well as interview prospective patients for complete eligiblility requirements. Additionally, all studies require patients to be in good health and to that end require an initial comprehensive physical evaluation (physical exam, EKG, blood tests, and urinalysis) to determine study eligibility. Patients must be able to attend weekly appointments at Stanford between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays.

Our research studies are designed to answer specific questions about a drug’s safety and its effectiveness. Being in a research study is different from being a patient. When you are a patient, you and your personal doctor have a great deal of freedom in making decisions about your health care. When you are a research subject, the Protocol Director (Dr. Koran) and the research staff will follow the rules of the research study (protocol) as closely as possible without compromising your health.

Switching to Cymbalta to Reduce Sexual Side Effects

The purpose of this research is to obtain information on the effectiveness of switching to duloxetine (Cymbalta) from a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) to ameliorate SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction in patients with depression (Major Depression or dysthymia, which is chronic, milder depression). Duloxetine has been approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of major depression. Some research evidence indicates that sexual side effects are less likely with duloxetine than with from some other antidepressants, including SSRIs.

This research study will require 6 in-person visits to the Stanford Psychiatry Clinic across 13 weeks. At each visit participants will be interviewed about their symptoms of depression or dysthymia and about their sexual function, and their heart rate, blood pressure, and weight will be obtained. Participants will be paid $40 for each study visit and $60 for the final visit.

For more information, call 650-725-5180.

For questions regarding participant’s research rights call 1-866-680-2906.