Doctors often begin OCD treatment by giving patients medications such as Anafranil®, Paxil®, Prozac®, Luvox®, Celexa ®, Lexipro® or Zoloft®. 

 

For many patients these medications are helpful but do not provide adequate relief of symptoms.  For these patients, there is a need for additional treatment options.  Our current treatment studies are investigating add-on treatments for people taking medications for their OCD but still needing more help.

Augmentation of SRI with Ondansetron for OCD (IRB# 6349)

This study evaluates the efficacy of an investigational medication, called ondansetron, at reducing OCD symptoms when it is added to a serotonin reuptake inhibitor.  Ondansetron is FDA approved for the treatment of nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing chemotherapy.  Pilot data suggests that ondansetron may be helpful in reducing OCD symptoms.  All treatment is provided at no charge and participants are compensated for their time.  To schedule a confidential screening, contact Dr. Marcia Kimeldorf at (212) 543-5462. 

Click here to learn more about the study!

Treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (IRB# 5926 R)

This study tests the efficacy of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) in the treatment of OCD. rTMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses a magnet to stimulate areas of the brain.  rTMS is FDA approved for the treatment of depression.  Pilot studies have suggested that rTMS may be helpful in reducing OCD symptoms. All treatment is provided at no charge. To schedule a confidential screening, contact Anouk Allart at (212) 543-5615.

 

Rapid Anti-Obsessional Effects of Ketamine in OCD (IRB# 5883)

This research study tests whether ketamine – a drug that blocks a brain receptor called NMDA - can cause a rapid (within hours) anti-obsessional effect in individuals with OCD. Even medications that are effective for treating OCD take weeks or months to achieve their full effects; some individuals with OCD may have only mild symptom reduction from these medications. More rapidly acting medications are needed to improve quality of life for those still suffering from OCD. In a recent published case study (2011) from our clinic, ketamine produced a rapid anti-obsessional effect within hours, with the effect lasting approximately 1 week. Understanding how ketamine works may lead to a better understanding of the causes of OCD. This is not a treatment study. Results from this study will allow doctors and researchers to better understand if you and others with OCD may respond to a class of medications that target the NMDA brain receptor. You will be compensated for your time and reimbursed for transportation and lunch. Contact: Dr. Carolyn Rodriguez 212-543-5637. 

 

 

We are currently investigating the brain mechanisms underlying the symptoms of OCD.  The studies listed below use cutting edge techniques to investigate the neurochemistry of the brain, the functioning of brain circuits, and the way the brain processes information.  

If you are over 18 and NOT currently on psychiatric medications, you may be eligible to participate in one or more of these studies. All participants are compensated for their time ($175 - $285 per study) depending on the specific study.  To schedule a confidential screening or if you have any questions, please contact: Liane Hunter at (212) 543-5380 or Jose Hernandez at (212) 543-5367

 

MRS Studies of Glutamate in People With and Without OCD (IRB# 6218)

This study uses magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to measure levels of glutamate in specific areas of the brain. Participants are also asked to complete clinical evaluations.

fMRI: Studies of the Brain in Health and Illness (IRB# 6159)

This study uses functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to measure brain activity across different brain regions while participants are performing a series of computer tasks. Participants are also asked to complete neuropsychological tasks and clinical evaluations.

Neurobehavioral tasks in OCD and related disorders (IRB# 6430)

This study uses different neurobehavioral tasks and questionnaires to measure one’s stress reactivity, startle reflexes, and preferences.

 

 

Understanding Obsessive Compulsive Personality Features (IRB# 5979)

• Is perfectionism causing problems for you?

• Do others complain about your rigidity?

• Do you worry too much about order and details?

• Do you find it difficult to relax and enjoy free time?

• Are you constantly trying to control things?

• Do you plan out every minute of your day? 

Participants are needed for a research study designed to learn more about obsessive compulsive personality features and ways of thinking, and how these features affect life functioning. Participants will receive a confidential evaluation at no cost and payment upon completion of an interview, questionnaires, and computer tasks. For more information, contact Ashley Greene at #212-543-5938. 

 

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Online Survey of Personality Features (IRB# 5942)

Chance to Win $100 Target Gift Card!!

Participants (age 18 and older) are needed to complete an online survey about beliefs and behaviors related to personality styles. Participation is anonymous and typically takes up to 60 minutes. The information gathered will contribute to abetter understanding of the nature of personality-related problems, leading to improved assessment methods and treatment interventions.

!CLICK HERE TO PARTICIPATE & HAVE THE CHANCE TO WIN $100 TARGET GIFT CARD!