Research

KNS 760704 for ALS:
In July 2007 we will begin a study of the safety and efficacy of a drug called KNS 760704. This is a phase 2 study which will enroll 5 subjects at OHSU and 80 subjects at 20 centers in the US. This study is sponsored by Knopp Neurosciences, Inc.

Avanir Pseudobulbar Affect:
ALS patients frequently experience psuedobulbar affect, which is uncontrollable laughing or crying. Avanir Pharmaceuticals is sponsoring a study of an investigational drug for pseudobulbar affect. OHSU will be a site for this study. Please check back often for more details.

Ceftriaxone for ALS:
In fall 2008, we plan to begin a Stage 3 clinical trial of the antibiotic Ceftriaxone for ALS. Currently, Ceftriaxone is used to treat bacterial infections, but it was chosen from a screening of 1040 drugs currently approved by the FDA for its potential effects in ALS. Ceftriaxone targets glutamate toxicity, so researchers believe it could be a therapy for ALS. This trial is currently in Stage 2 testing at several sites throughout the country. When Stage 2 is complete, enrollment will begin at 60 sites in the US and Canada. By the end of the study, over 600 patients with ALS will be enrolled.

Fatigue in ALS:
Fatigue is a common symptom for ALS patients, but it is rarely studied. We are beginning a year-long study of fatigue in ALS patients. Each patient will visit clinic 4 times in one year and answer questions about fatigue, undergo muscle testing and complete an ALS rating scale. The results of this study will help to design interventions or treatments for fatigue in ALS.

Past Studies:
We have also recently completed two drug trials: Minocycline and a combination trial with Minocycline and creatine or Celecoxib and creatine. Through neither of these trials turned out with the results we had hoped for, they will help researchers identify future ALS research.

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Page Updated May 5, 2008

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