Epilepsy Patient Volunteers (Drug Therapy)
We are recruiting patients for a new study to look at how anti-epileptic medication therapy affects the brain to prevent seizures. To do this we are going to take detailed pictures of the function and structure of your brain within the first year of drug treatment, and again one year later. Our ultimate goal is to help physicians predict which drugs will work on an individual patient. If you have started drug therapy for seizures within the last year, we invite you to participate in this study.
To volunteer or for more information, please contact:
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Victoria Morgan
(615)-343-5720
morgan_lab@vumc.org
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Do I qualify for the study?
We are looking for volunteers who have had at least one seizure and are being treated with anti-epileptic medications. We would like to enroll volunteers within the first year of treatment, with a follow up one year later. Volunteers should be between the ages of 18 and 65 years.
What does the study involve?
The study involves two- 90 minute Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) sessions at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. One session will be scheduled right away, and the other one in about one year. There are no medications or injections involved. At the time of the MRI scan, you will fill out a MRI safety survey to make sure your are safe to go into the MRI scanner. You will also complete a very brief survey about your most recent seizures.
Will this help or affect my treatment in any way?
No. This is voluntary and will not affect your treatment in any way. We hope to learn from your MRIs to help patients in the future.
Will my results be shared with anyone?
The images and data from this study may be shared with the National Institutes of Health, the Epilepsy Foundation, the American Epilepsy Society, or other similar researchers. HOWEVER, your name and identifying information will not be associated with the data in any way. In this way, we can maximize the impact of your participation, while completely ensuring your confidentiality.
Will I be compensated for my time?
Yes. You will receive $100 for each MRI session. A check will be mailed to you within 3 weeks after the MRI session.
Will my neurologist be able to see my pictures?
Yes. we will make some of the pictures available to your doctor, if he/she chooses to view them.
Will I get to know the results of this study?
The study is estimated to complete in about 5 years. As we compile information we will be making the results publicly available through published manuscripts and presentations at conferences such as the Annual Meeting of the American Epilepsy Society. These publications will not include personal identifying information of the participants.