Clinical Trials
The MS Center of Oregon participates in a number of multicenter drug trials and clinical research studies.
Ginkgo Biloba for Cognitive Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis
Additionally, the MS Center of Oregon is working with the Portland VA Medical Center and the Seattle VA Medical Center to study the effect of Ginkgo biloba on cognitive impairment due to multiple sclerosis (MS). The study is currently recruiting subjects to enroll in a placebo controlled trial.
Eligible subjects must:
- be between the ages of 18 and 65 years,
- carry a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis
- be native English speakers
- not have taken Ginkgo in the prior 30 days
- not be severely depressed
- not have severe medical problems
- not have a significant MS relapse in the prior 30 days
- not have history of alcohol or drug abuse in the prior six months
- not be taking Coumadin (warfarin) or other blood thinners
- be impaired in at least one of the cognitive tests that will be administered at screening
- be using a reliable form of contraception
Participation in the study requires that subjects undergo clinical assessments at the Portland VA Medical Center or Seattle VA Medical center on two separate occasions over a 3 month period. The assessments will include cognitive tests and a physical exam. Also, the participant and a close family member or caregiver will be asked to complete several questionnaires regarding cognitive problems, social activities and depression. Subjects will also receive monthly phone calls.
This is a research study and not treatment.
There will be no financial costs to subjects who choose to participate in this study. Subjects will be paid $25 for completing each visit. Subjects that live further than 1 hour from the Portland VA Medical Center or Seattle VA medical center will receive compensation for their travel costs up to $75 per visit.
If you would like further information about this study or to refer a subject, please contact:
Dr. Dennis Bourdette, the principal investigator, or
Dr. Edward Kim, the co-investigator, at (503) 220-8262 x 54594
Portland VA Medical Center
3710 SW US Veterans Hospital Road
Portland, OR. 97239
VA Puget Sound Health Care System
1660 South Columbian Way
Seattle, WA. 98108
