Anyone who is a parent knows how challenging ─ yet rewarding ─ raising a child can be. But, when a child experiences mood or behavioral problems, the challenge can turn overwhelming. One local resource is readily available, yet many are unaware of it: Clinical trials, also referred to as research studies, are opportunities where advanced medical discoveries are in the making. These studies are available to children, as well as adults, and give them the attention and treatment they need in a safe and nurturing environment. “New medications are a result of this kind of research,” says Karen Kolin, a director at CNS Healthcare. “We tell our volunteers, especially our young volunteers, that by participating in a study, they’re helping the entire world with new medication options. They may even be helping someone they know. They are medical heroes!”

Even with the wide array of medications available and prescribed today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reports that only 20-30% of drugs are approved and labeled for use in children. Answering the need for study of pediatric medications are research centers such as the local, experienced team at CNS Healthcare.

Clinical research trials are carefully designed to study the effects of investigational medicines before they reach the market. The main focus in children and adolescents (age 6 to 17) at CNS Healthcare are trials focusing on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, vaccines, and asthma. Previous and ongoing studies include research on novel medications, like a 4-in-1 flu vaccine and a wearable patch for ADHD that eliminates the need for daily oral medication. Though the therapies may still be in the research phase, psychiatrist and principal investigator Robert Molpus, M.D. assures parents “research studies provide the highest level of safety due to the nature of the close supervision required in conducting clinical research.”

Some of CNS Healthcare’s current pediatric research involves evaluating the effectiveness of an ADHD medication that is administered at bedtime and takes effect first thing in the morning. The aim is to improve morning time interactions between children and their parents and teachers at home and at school. They are also conducting trials on a 17-hour stimulant to prevent the wearing off of medication or ‘crash’ during homework and dinner time.

The Orlando site administrator, Patricia Brown, PhD, ARNP recently explained what is involved for local families who want to participate in a research study. “There is an initial screening process, usually performed in person, designed to gather information from both parent and child. This is followed by an assessment that includes a physical, lab work, and an interview with the physician. Study participants benefit from excellent medical care at no charge to them. All studies are completely confidential and vary in length. One of the great benefits of participating is the opportunity to see a medical doctor or nurse practitioner on a very frequent basis, sometimes as often as once per week. Even if an individual doesn’t qualify for a specific trial, they often still benefit by being referred to a skilled physician who can provide appropriate medical attention.”

Psychiatrist and medical director, Linda Harper, M.D. added, “Thorough and complete medical and psychiatric assessment of each child is one of the most critical aspects of clinical research. A differential diagnosis is imperative to adequately treat a pediatric patient. For instance, ADHD can be misdiagnosed as depression, or the underlying cause of the depression could be a medical condition such as thyroid disease.”

“The child and his/her family generally gain a world of knowledge to arm them with the tools that are needed to have a happy, fulfilling life,” Kolin says. The fact that there is no cost to participate and no insurance is billed lends confidence to parents that their child’s medical information will go no further than the center.  “We want people to feel confident and comfortable to participate,” Kolin adds. “We understand how costly and difficult it can be to get the attention and services of skilled doctors and nurses. We want our community to know that this is an option. It’s another tool in the healthcare toolbox that can be a viable option for treatment to fill a short term need.”

To learn more about local participation in clinical trials or to schedule a free consultation, visit CNSHealthcare.com or call (407) 425-5100.