Seizure First Aid

Education about Epilepy and Seizures is very important.  Most people do not understand the disease and what we do not understand, we sometimes are affraid of.  It is important to know what to do in any emergency situation.  We have CPR classes, fire drills, etc.  But what would you do if someone at a restaurant, grocery store or church had a seizure?  Would you know what to do?

Most importantly, have someone call 911 and then assist the person seizing.  The main goal is to keep them from getting hurt during the seizure.  Try to turn them on their side and wait for them to stop seizing.

Dr. Oz recently addressed this and here is the link with some more tips!
http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/seizure-first-aid

Donating to Causes

Do you donate to any causes?  CTI and AEP stay involved with several Non-Profits in our Community including but not limited to:  Alzheimer's Arkansas, Arkansas Parkinson's Association, American Diabetes Association - Arkansas Chapter, Epilepsy Education Association of Arkansas, PEACE and others.

We encourage people to search out these organizations and give what you can whether it is money, time or in-kind goods.  These organizations provide much needed services.  Looking for a support group - these are the people to contact!

My background is actually Non-Profit, so I have some professional experience in that field and it is HARD WORK.  Most of these people do not get paid great and work well over 40 hours per week, including nights and weekends.  Let me tell you they don't do it for the money, but for the CAUSE. 

There are definitely many worthwhile organizations out there.  Find something you are passionate about and get involved.  I work full-time, mother and wife and I still find time to volunteer.  I'm not saying it's easy but it's important to me and I want my daughter to learn how important it is as well.

Here are some websites for the above mentioned organizations.  I hope you get involved TODAY!

http://www.alzark.org/
http://www.diabetes.org/
http://www.epilepsyarkansas.org/
http://www.arparkinson.org/
http://www.peaceinark.com/

Disabilities and Employment

Some stories about those with Epilepsy....

32-year-old "Robert," who does not want his real name used because it could jeopardize his chances of future employment, hasn't been so lucky -- and has been fired twice because of his epilepsy. The IT specialist, who lives in Toronto, once had a high-powered job and handled mergers of computer services for several major companies. But his life took a turn for the worse when he had his first seizure at the age of 23.  He went on disability, but as soon as he came off it about a year later, he was offered a layoff package by his employer.About 30 per cent of people with seizures will be able to control them if they take the proper medications.  So the average person with epilepsy is under control, drug control, and may never have another seizure

One of our friends on facebook made this commnet:  This really hits home for me. I was a productive member of society practicing an actual trade and had been working in a professional environment since I was 15. I had to give it up prettymuch indefinitely at 25 and it's been very frustrating. I sort of don't know what to do with myself and I'm glad I'm not the only one.

 Another personal experience:  "My seizures became gradually more frequent.  First every six months, then every three months, and, by the time I was in college, I was having seizures monthly.  My epilepsy became harder to live with, but I got used to it– sort of.  While I had the good fortune of never being teased, I still did not feel quite whole.  My seizures are still not controlled, but I have an understanding and helpful family." 

- John G. Miers of Bethesda, MD

Married with 3 daughters and 1 grandson

Retired from a federal agency as the Office of Diversity and Employee Advocacy Programs Director.

We have recently heard news of more high profile people being diagnosed with disabiling and progressive diseases.  For example, this week we found out that Pat Summitt, the Tennesse Lady Vols Basketball coach was diagnosed with dementia.  Steve Kragthorpe, assistant football coach for the LSU Tigers was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's. How will this affect their jobs?  As of now, they are both still in their current positions and plan to continue as long as they can.

Obviously, everyone's situation is different, but I think it is important to realize you are not alone.  What is your story?

Reasons to Participate in a Clinical Trial

Why do people participate in Clinical Trials? 
     -some people might do it because they may gain some benefit
          (access to an investigational medication not available on the market)
     -some people might do it for extra money
          (the financial gain should never be significant enough to persuade someone to participate and cannot
          be used when advertising per the FDA)
     -some people might do it for benefiting science, helping others

Ultimately, people should volunteer for benefiting science.  That blood pressure or diabetes pill you or a loved one takes wouldn't be available if others hadn't volunteered for a trial.  This is true with any medication available today including Tylenol.

Would you participate in a trial just for research purposes...knowing you would gain no benefit other than possibly helping others?

We conduct many different types of drug studies but we specialize in Neurological diseases....Epilepsy, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, MS and Diabetic Neuropathy.  Although some people are controlled with their Epilepsy medication, there are thousands of people still suffering with uncontrolled seizures even on medication.  There is no cure for AD, PD, MS or DPN - so if I or someone I loved was suffering from a progressive disease for which there was no cure, I would consider a drug study.  Research provides Hope to an individual.  Will the study drug help?  There is no way to know without the research and sadly most drugs do fail and never make it to market.  But what we learn from those drugs that fail is what will eventually lead us to the CURE.

If you want to get involved in a clinical trial or find one in your area for a loved one, visit any of these sites.

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/
http://www.centerwatch.com/

and of course our website for those in Arkansas
http://www.clinicaltrialsinc.com/

How much TV do you watch?

Okay, so this is a little off topic but I was just curious.  Do you still pay for cable or satellite TV services?  I know we do at our home, but I just read an article that made me questions how many folks are opting out.  Is it due to the economy?  How is it affecting advertisers?  Are more people moving to the internet...with video streaming websites like Netflix and Hulu?  I know we utilize TV to reach new volunteers for our trials.

You can view the article here:
http://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article.aspx?aid=127974.54928.140103

I think the end quote says it all. 
"Rising prices for pay TV, coupled with growing availability of lower cost alternatives, add to a toxic mix at a time when disposable income isn't growing."

What do you think?

Parkinson's study...is it for you?

We have a great Parkinson's study going on right now and we are activing looking for new patients that may qualify.

It is a Phase 3, 12-Week, Double-Blind, Double Dummy, Placebo-And Active-Controlled Efficacy and Safety Study of Preladenant in Subjects with Moderate to Severe Parkinson's Disease (Phase 3: Protocol No. PO4938).

This research study is for patients diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at 30 years of age or older.  Must be taking carbidopa-levodopa (Sinemet) and on a stable dose for 4 weeks.  Must be experiencing "off" periods for at least 2 hours during the day.  Cannot have had a pallidotomy or deep brain stimulation surgery for Parkinson's.  This research study is approximately 4 months with about 9 office visits.  This research study is evaluation the safety and effectiveness of an investigational drug which may reduce "off" periods.  There is no cost to participate and the patient/caregiver participation is voluntary.  There may be some reimbursement for time and travel available.  Contact Clinical Trials, Inc. at 501-227-6179 to see if you or a loved one might qualify.  For email inquiries, contact info@clinicaltrialsinc.com

Reminder:  This is a multi-site study and our site is located in Little Rock, AR - so you would need to be able to travel to Little Rock for office visits.

For even more info visit:  http://www.advancedparkinsonsstudy.com/

Warning signs of a Stroke

Strokes are very common and can be very devastating to a family.  It is important to know the warning signs because fast treatment is the best you can do to minimize the effects from the stroke.  Below is some information I have gathered that I think is very helpful.

WARNING SIGNS:
     -Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
     -Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding
     -Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
     -Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
     -Sudden, severe headache with no known cause

In the past, doctors couldn't do much to help stroke victims. That's not true today. Now stroke doesn't have to lead to disability or death. The key is to recognize a stroke and get to the hospital immediately. The clot-dissolving drug tPA (tissue plasminogen activator) can reduce long-term disability if it's given within three hours after an ischemic stroke starts. (Ischemic strokes are caused by clots and are by far the most common type of stroke.)  Unfortunately, tPA isn't used as often as it could be because many people don't seek care quickly. Don't you make that mistake. If you or someone near you has the warning signs of a stroke, call 9-1-1 immediately.

How to tell if someone has had a stroke...maybe you're at a BBQ and someone just lost their balance for no reason...
 Remember FAST:
F - Check for numbness or weakness in the face (the F in FAST) by asking the person to smile. If one side of the face droops or the person can't smile, it may mean stroke.
A - Look for muscle weakness. Ask the person to raise both arms (the A in FAST). If one arm drifts down or can't be raised, it may mean stroke
S - Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. If the speech (the S in FAST) is slurred or hard to understand, or the person has trouble remembering the words to repeat, it may mean stroke.
T - Get help immediately if you or someone else experience any of the signs of stroke. Call 911 or get the person to a hospital. Tell emergency medical personnel you're dealing with a possible stroke, so they can start proper treatment right away. Time (the T in FAST) is the most important factor in helping someone survive a stroke or limit its effects.

 

Seizure Response Dogs

Are you familiar with these service dogs.  It is amazing to me what you can train dogs to do.  One of our very own staff members went to Georgia to learn how to train these dogs for folks in Arkansas - very cool!!!

Canine Assistants service dogs assist children and adults with physical disabilities or other special needs in a variety of ways. Some of the tasks our dogs perform include turning lights on and off, opening and closing doors, pulling wheelchairs, retrieving dropped objects, summoning help, and providing secure companionship. While all of these functions are vitally important in helping a person obtain greater freedom, perhaps the most impressive gift our dogs provide is social, rather than physical, in nature. The dogs eliminate feelings of fear, isolation, and loneliness felt by their companions. One Canine Assistants recipient made the value of this gift quite clear when asked by a reporter what she liked most about her service dog. Immediately, she responded, "My dog makes my wheelchair disappear."
Most Canine Assistants service dogs are born, raised, and trained at our facility in Milton, Georgia, while some are occasionally adopted from local organizations or breeders. The majority of our service dogs are retrievers, including both goldens and labradors.

 

Like service dogs, companion dogs also serve to assist children and adults with physical disabilities or other special needs. Companion dogs work primarily in a recipient's home, assisting with tasks around the house and more importantly, contributing to the emotional well being of the person.

In addition to service dogs and companion dogs, Canine Assistants also trains and provides seizure response dogs for certain recipients. As with some of our service dogs, these dogs are adopted from various organizations and selectively screened for personality, temperament, and general health. Following general training, seizure response dogs are trained to perform one of the following behaviors, depending on the recipient's need: remain next to the person during the course of a seizure, summon help in a controlled environment, or retrieve a phone prior to the seizure when indicated by the recipient. Certain dogs may even develop the ability to predict and react in advance to an oncoming seizure once they are placed with their recipient.

http://www.canineassistants.org/index.html?nomovie=1

Are Clinical Trials Safe?

Sorry it's been over a week since my last blog....had some health issues that kept me out of the office some last week.  All better now :)

I talk to a lot of people that are considering participating or having a loved-one participate in a clinical trial.  Everyone's personal situation is different and you have to make the right decision for YOU! 

Most clinical research is federally regulated with built in safeguards to protect the participants.  We only participate in sponsored research studies at our facility, which means we contract with the pharmaceutical companies developing an investigational medication or device.  We are usually one of many sites participating in either a national or even international study.  The FDA regulates the protocol of the study and the IRB also oversees the trial for the safety of the patients.

There are always benefits/risks that you need to consider before participating:
Benefits

Clinical trials that are well-designed and well-executed are the best approach for eligible participants to:

• Play an active role in their own health care.
• Gain access to new research treatments before they are widely available.
• Obtain expert medical care at leading health care facilities during the trial.
• Help others by contributing to medical research.

Risks

There are risks to clinical trials.

• There may be unpleasant, serious or even life-threatening side effects to experimental treatment.
• The experimental treatment may not be effective for the participant.
• The protocol may require more of their time and attention than would a non-protocol treatment, including trips to the study site, more treatments, hospital stays or complex dosage requirements.

As I have mentioned before, our site specializes in Neurological diseases such as Epilepsy, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, MS and Diabetic Neuropathy.  Knowing that there is no current cure for these diseases and having a loved one suffer from Alzheimer's, I would personally put a family member into a clinical trial for these type of progressive diseases.  Same thing with Cancer or any other disease in which a clinical trial might be your best HOPE. 

Of course, there is no guarantee that a clinical trial will make you better, but at the very least you are helping with future research and understanding of these diseases so that we might one day find a cure.  So in a way, you are helping others!

As a site our first priority is our patients safety, and it should be that way at every clinical research facility.  Be sure to ask questions and stay informed - that is your right as a clinical trial participant. 

Are there possible side effects?  Of Course!!!  Are there possible side effects to that medication you are currently taking?  Of Course!!!  There are always risks/side effects to any medication, but do the benefits out-weight the risks?

I don't know if this was helpful or not, so please ask me any questions you might have.  Until next week...

Outdoor Activities

In our recent newsletter, we discussed outdoor activities that are good for Alzheimer's patients.  I will talk about those in a minute, but I think it is important to stress information about being safe in this extreme heat we are having right now in Arkansas.
     -Try not to go outside during the heat of the day (early morning or late afternoon are best)
     -Drink plenty of water
     -Wear light-weight clothing
     -Limit the time you spend outdoors (1-2 hours MAX)

Spending time outside makes us feel better, so it is important but we need to be smart about it as well!

Here are 10 ideas for outdoor activities this Summer:
1.  Take an early morning or late afternoon stroll.  Studies have shown that simple exercise on a routine basis may help improve mood and decrease anxiety.
2.  Shop at a Farmer's market.  There are numerous crops in season June to September, so a variety of fruits and vegetables, plus seeing colorful foods can lead to better eating habits in those with Alzheimer's.
3.  Spend time on a porch swing.  The rhythmic motion of the swing can be soothing and it is a great time to reminisce.
4.  Visit a local park.  City parks are professionally landscaped with beautiful vegetation, meandering walking trails and even sculptured art.
5.  Bird watch in your backyard.  It only requires binoculars or your own two eyes.  You might want to add bird feeders and birdbaths to attact a great assorment of birds
6.  Enjoy a concert in the park.  You might want to attend one that features music you know the person with Alzhiemer's likes.  Be cautious of crowds.
7.  Explore your city's downtown district.  Instead of getting in your car driving from one shopping center to another, take your errand list downtown and walk from store to store.
8.  Stargaze on a clear night.  You can use a telescope or just the naked eye.  Check your library or the internet for guides on stars, planets and constellations.
9.  Collect seashells.  Whether you live by the sea or only make an annual visit, shell collection can be a quiet, simple activity.  You can incorporate the shells into decorations/crafts for keeping your memories of the beach.
10.  Have a picnic.  A picnic is an easy way to spend time outside, and you can have one anywhere-on your patio, at the park or on the beach. 

I hope these have given you some new ideas on how to spend your time with your loved ones this summer.  If you have other ideas - Please Share Them!

What type of doctor is right for you with Epilepsy?

We all know that epilepsy is not a one-type-fits-all condition. Nor are the answers to seizure control. But there are plenty of options out there. Here are just a few (from The Epilepsy Connection)…

Neurologist

The neurologist is a specially trained physician who diagnoses and treats disorders in the nervous system, whether caused by disease or injury. This includes diseases of the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. Neurologists possess a comprehensive knowledge of the neurological structures of the body, including the cerebral cortex and its division into various lobes and their individual jobs in making the body work as a whole.

Neurologists perform physical examinations to test vision, memory, speech, balance, muscle strength and movement because such functions can be impaired by neurological disorders. They also perform tests such as EEG (electroencephalograph), MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), CAT scan, (computed axial tomography), spinal tap and other diagnostic procedures. Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, the neurologist will determine the best course of treatment. If surgery is needed, the neurologist does not perform the surgery but will monitor the patient.

Behavioral Neurologist

Behavioral neurologists are usually found in centers that focus on one neurological disorder or condition, such as epilepsy. Some hospitals and centers have set up a “cognitive neurology” or “behavioral neurology” program. These are usually outpatient programs that include a team of specialists. These teams typically include a neuropsychologist, a neuropsychiatrist, a clinical social worker, and a clinical psychologist.

They work on such problems as psychogenic seizures which are most likely triggered by emotional stress or trauma. Some people with epilepsy have psychogenic seizures in addition to their epileptic seizures. It’s a legitimate seizure and should be treated that way, but it is not caused by a problem in the brain.

Then there are physiologic non-epileptic seizures which can be triggered by some sort of change in the brain — typically a change in the supply of blood or oxygen rather than electrical activity. It’s important to differentiate a seizure from that of a behavioral disorder, but it’s difficult.

Epileptologist

An epileptologist is a neurologist who has taken at least an additional 2 years of specialized training in epilepsy and usually treats the most difficult epilepsy cases. Epileptologists are significant as experts in seizures and seizure disorders, anticonvulsants, and special situations involving seizures, such as cases in which all treatment intended to stop seizures has failed.

Usually, the setting is a program which has multidisciplinary support such as outpatient and inpatient, medical, surgical and experimental treatments, psychology and psychiatry.

In addition to patient care, epileptologists are often engaged in research, which is far-ranging. The research may include antiepileptic drugs, surgery techniques, genetic factors, biochemical elements, computer modeling, diagnostic tests or a host of other fields.

Neurosurgeon

A neurosurgeon treats people whose seizures cannot be controlled by medication. Epilepsy surgery can benefit patients who have seizures associated with structural brain abnormalities, such as benign brain tumors and malformations of blood vessels, the genetic disorder tuberous sclerosis, and strokes. The goal of epilepsy surgery is to identify an abnormal area of brain cortex from which the seizures originate and remove it without causing any major functional impairment.

Surgery is most commonly performed to treat partial epilepsy, since only one area of the brain is involved. After surgery, many patients will be seizure-free, while others will have better controlled seizures. A few patients may not improve and will need to explore further treatment options.

Improved technology has made it possible to identify more accurately where seizures originate in the brain and advances in surgery have made operative management safer. The benefits of surgery should always be weighed carefully against its risks, because there is no guarantee that it will be successful in controlling seizures.

Pediatric Neurosurgeon

This is a neurosurgeon with specialized training and experience in pediatric epilepsy surgery. However, prior to the surgery, the patient must be evaluated by a team of epileptologists, neuroradiologists, neuropsychologists, and neurosurgeons with specialized training in patients with refractory epilepsy. Most of these teams are in large academic medical centers with affiliations to medical schools. The team tailors the surgery for each child on an individual basis.

Early surgical intervention with a variety of techniques specifically designed to reduce or to eliminate seizure spread or frequency can be performed safely in children with excellent seizure and neurological outcomes.

While the risks of surgery must be considered in any intervention, they should also be weighed against a lifetime of seizures and their impact on the developing brain from a functional and cognitive standpoint.

Psychiatrist

Seizures that are psychological in origin are often called psychogenic (or “faux”) seizures. These seizures are most likely triggered by emotional stress or trauma. And some people with epilepsy have psychogenic seizures in addition to their epileptic seizures.

And depression is no stranger to those with epilepsy. One study stated that 80% of the patients with epilepsy were also diagnosed as having a depressive disorder. Upwards of 60% of these individuals had a history of significant episodes of depression. And 10-32% experience symptoms of anxiety. So psychiatric therapy is often a help in getting over the hurdles.

Nutritionist

It may be worth a full nutritional analysis to determine if you are suffering from deficiencies associated with epilepsy such as Zinc and Magnesium. Other nutrients may also be helpful, including Vitamins B-6 and B-12, Vitamin E and Selenium – all of which have been known to significantly lower seizure rates. AEDs themselves can deplete important nutrients such as Folic Acid, Vitamin D and Calcium.

A nutritionist may suggest The Ketogenic Diet – a high fat, adequate protein, low carbohydrate diet which works by fasting and creating ketones which cause seizures to often lessen or disappear. The Atkins Diet — which is slightly less restrictive than the Ketogenic Diet – is another option. Or you might choose the Modified Atkins Diet (MAD) which is more user-friendly, less restrictive, and as effective as the Ketogenic Diet. And finally, there is The Glutamate-Aspartate Restricted Diet (G.A.R.D) – a life-long elimination diet.

Naturopath

A naturopathic doctor treats the whole person, taking into account the interaction of their physical, mental, and emotional factors in causing a condition. Naturopathic medicine recognizes the importance of the whole person instead of just single organ systems or particular symptoms.

When it comes to epilepsy, naturopathy and a range of related treatment methods may have a good deal to offer, as long as it is coordinated with your neurological care.

Options include: aromatherapy, acupuncture, behavior control, biofeedback, massage, stress management, to name just a few.

Homeopathy

The main argument for treating epilepsy — or any disease — homeopathically is because each patient is different. Though they may be diagnosed with the same disease or disorder, their symptoms are different, as are their responses to treatment and medication. This is why people believe there are many benefits to treating epilepsy based on symptoms rather than the generalized disease. By being able to zero in on exact symptoms which patients are experiencing, it’s believed that homeopathy will have a better chance of treating those specific symptoms.

Alone, homeopathy may not help all cases of epilepsy. But together, with conventional treatment for epilepsy, it’s seen success as a supportive line of treatment. And in cases of drug resistant epilepsy, people often do respond significantly to homeopathy.

Memorial Day - How do you Celebrate?

How do you Celebrate Memorial Day?  Do you have any great recipes to share?

My family and I don't have any set plans every year, but we always go to the local music festival Riverfest, cook-out and try to hang out by a pool/lake at some point during the long weekend.  Our grilling food of choice is typically just burgers and hot dogs.

I do remember as a little girl, my dad making home-made ice cream - YUM!!!  I miss that. 

Here is a great website with some amazing recipes you and your family might want to try this holiday weekend.

http://www.recipe4living.com/articles/plan_a_quick_and_easy_memorial_day_barbecue_party.htm

QUICK FACT:  Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.

Fox 16 and Donna Terrell

We had a wonderful opportunity to work with Donna Terrell on a news story about clinical trials.  She really focused on the common misconception of being a human guinea pig.  I think she did her research and represented the story with good clear facts and I was delightfully suprised.  I hope folks in central Arkansas saw the story, if not you can still check it out online.  I hope the link before will take you to the video to see it.  If not just go to fox16.com

Watch the Clip

Parkinson's

Parkinson's disease is named for the English physician, Dr. James Parkinson who described the disease in 1817 as "Shaking Palsy". It was not until the 1960's that the biological and chemical changes in the brain of persons with PD were identified.

Parkinson's disease affects over 2 million people in the United States alone. For every 100,000 people, 20 new cases of PD are diagnosed every year. Most PD cases are in persons over the age of 50. However, there is a significant increase of patients diagnosed in their 30's and 40's. There is also a form of PD that affects persons in their teens.

Researchers have discovered many of the chemical mechanisms in PD, however, the cause of PD remains unknown. One known trigger for PD is sleeping sickness (encephalitis), a viral infection that damages the same area of the nervous system as PD. This is rare, except for cases arising immediately after the world wide epidemic of sleeping sickness between 1918 and 1932. In recent years, many young people have developed PD like symptoms following the use of an illegal drug.

At Clinical Trials, we strive to search out pharma companies developing investigational drugs for diseases like Parkinsons.  For example, we currently are recruiting new patients for this study:  www.advancedparkinsonsstudy.com

The Arkansas Chapter of the APDA has many valuable resources.  Check out their website: http://www.arparkinson.org/index.html

There you will find Support Group Information, Caregiver Help and more.  Since there currently is no cure, your best option is with current treatments to help with the symptoms and Hope Through Research!  Volunteer Today!

Diabetes blog

I think it is very important for patients suffering from any disease to not only be educated about their disease but to be in touch with others experiencing similar problems.  It is a great way to cope and it will help give you great tips/advice and just in general a Great Support System.  Below is a link to a recent blog I found online.

If you have Diabetes, you should definitely check it out.  I've also included some excerpts, so you know what to expect.

http://diabetesstopshere.org/2011/05/12/love-hate-lists-and-diabetes/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Post&utm_content=051211-love-hate-lists&utm_campaign=DSH_BLOG

Having a positive attitude is important… but let’s face it, diabetes isn’t all sunshine and roses (or glitter and unicorns, for that matter). So today let’s vent by listing ten things about diabetes that we hate. Make them funny, make them sarcastic, make them serious, make them anything you want them to be!!

Exploring Early-Onset Alzheimer's

Here is a story by KTHV in Little Rock with video clips.  Take a look and let me know your thoughts!
http://www.todaysthv.com/news/story.aspx?storyid=156715

Among the 5.4 million patients today nationwide, there's a growing number of Early Onset Alzheimer's.
We're told about 3,800 people have the progressive, debilitating dementia right now, many diagnosed in their 50s.

Dr. Kenneth Morgan Sauer speaks on this and he currently works at the Longevity Center at St Vincent in Little Rock.  "We are understanding Alzheimer's better so we are actually able to identify those patients who are Early Onset instead of claiming a psychiatric disorder," Sauer said.

As research continues, Sauer still warns of high risk factors ranging from high cholesterol to diabetes.
"Currently in modern research we're not even seeing anything close to a cure. What we're trying to do find treatments to slow the process down," Sauer said.

Blog for those caring for people with Parkinson's & Alzheimer's

Discovered a Blog for people caring for those with Parkinson's & Alzheimer's.  Here is where to find it and below is a recent post
http://www.parkinson.org/Caregivers/Caregivers---On-The-Blog/May-2011/Lessons-Learned-About-Caregiving-for-a-Person-With

Lessons Learned About Caregiving for a Person With Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Disease

 The following was taken from the journal of Vernon Gokey, caregiver to his wife Marianne:
Lessons Learned About Caregiving for a Person With Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Disease

1. Patience!!
2. Have the ability to be interrupted without question.
3. Humor is important.
4. Always be positive.
5. Be able to answer the same question over and over as if it was asked the first time.
6. Handle hallucinations as real, but don’t dwell on them.
7. Relieve fears with simple explanations. They become fearful when they don’t understand.
8. Don’t talk about what is happening tomorrow; it creates anxiety during the night.
9. Be prepared to switch tasks without prior notice.
10. In later stages of Parkinson’s, be prepared for falls and spills. Shakes and loss of balance become more prominent.
11. Eliminate cleanup by using a towel under the chin when brushing teeth or giving pills. Use straws for drinking (I drilled a hole in some sippy cups to insert straws).
12. When chewing becomes a problem, prepare food that can be eaten with a spoon, such as chicken a la king, chili, soup or food that can be cut bite size like pancakes or omelets.
13. Become a pro at changing the subject or diverting the thinking process.
14. Create a simple routine to be used every day. It helps maintain a constant in their life.
15. Use satin sheets and satin gowns or pajamas. It helps to get them in and out of bed.
16. Install handicap bars in front of toilet if possible. This allows them to hang onto the bar while you are taking down their clothes or pulling them back on. They also help when you have to wipe them and or have to apply medication.
17. If the car has cloth seats, use a garbage bag on the seat. It makes it easier to get them in and out of the car. The bag helps to rotate them.
18. Parkinson’s slows the reaction time. When asking a question or giving a direction, allow time for them to process the request. It may be 3 to 6 seconds before they answer
19. Take care of legal affairs early in the progression while they still of sound mind and they can still write and sign their names. Their hand writing will keep getting smaller and because of the shakes it will become illegible.
20. A wheelchair and a lift chair will become necessary to save your back and your time. Wheelchairs allows mobility so you can take them out of the house to socialize at grocery stores, restaurants, or malls. When I took her to the grocery store, I bought a small basket to sit on her lap. We put the light items in the basket and the heavy ones went in bags I hung on the handles.
21. Install toilet seat hinged elevator lifts under the seats. It makes it easier to sit them down and to pick them up also saves having to buy a handicap toilet (saves money).
22. Hire care givers to come in a couple times a week, or more often if you wish. I found the agencies could not guarantee the same person every week. And also don’t allow caregivers to lift patients. I feel that consistency is very important so I went with private care givers, one of the best things I ever did.
23. Build ramps to the outside for the wheelchair (I built ramps to the garage, the lanai from the kitchen and the bedroom. I also built ramps into the shower for the shower chair). 

Vernon Gokey was caregiver to his wife, Marianne, for several years after she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. He kept a journal during this time, and  kindly gave us permission to reprint the tips that appear in this blog.

Would you participate in a Clinical Trial?

Have you ever considered participating in a clinical trial?  Do you know anyone that has participated in a clinical trial?

Clinical trials are how we learn more about possible new treatments and cures for all diseases.  Without research we wouldn't have the medical advances available today. 

Some people say "I don't want to be a guinea pig."  The difference is a research volunteer is being fully informed and giving their full consent to participate and a guinea pig is not given the option to decide whether or not to participate.

Which brings me to Informed Consent.  Informed consent means that as a patient, you are given information so you can understand what is involved in a trial, including its potential benefits and risks, and then decide freely to take part in it or not.  The informed consent process is an ongoing process. If you enter a trial, you will continue to receive any new information about your treatment that may affect you willingness to stay in the trial. Signing a consent form does not bind you to the study. You can still choose to leave the study at any time.

Did you know that only 3% of qualified patients actually enroll into clinical trials?  In turn, it takes more time and money spent on recruitment to find qualified patients in order to meet the number of patients set for a particular trial. 

Why should you care?  The more time and money spent will directly effect you if the drug goes to market.  Tired of those expensive medications?  Be informed and participate if you can and are willing.

If you meet the criteria for a particular trial and decide to volunteer, remember that all the testing, exams, medication is provided to you at no cost.  Some studies may require frequent or long visits, but there is usually some compensation for your time and travel.

Tell us about your experiences! 

FDA OKs new Diabetes pill

The Food and Drug Administration says it has approved a new diabetes pill from Boehringer Ingelheim and Eli Lilly for patients who can't control their blood sugar with older medicines.

The agency approved Tradjenta tablets for adults with type 2 diabetes, which affects 24 million people in the U.S.

People with the disease have trouble breaking down carbohydrates, because their bodies have become resistant to the protein insulin. They are at higher risk for heart attacks, kidney problems, blindness and other serious complications.

Tradjenta works by blocking the DPP-4 enzyme, which releases insulin-boosting hormones that help control blood sugar levels. Merck and Bristol-Myers Squibb already market similar drugs in the U.S.

The FDA approved the drug as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with older diabetes drugs like metformin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before you volunteer for a research study, be sure to ask plenty of questions.  Informed consent isn't just a document you read and sign once, it is a ongoing process.  Below are some questions and answers to frequently asked questions from people interested in joining a research study.  Please let me know if you have any more questions!


What is a Clinical Trial?

Medical advances can only be made through research. Clinical trials, also called medical research or drug studies, are one important way in which progress is made. They are planned investigations involving patients, which are usually designed to test new therapies. These therapies may include new combinations of current treatments or different ways of prescribing them to see if they can be made more effective or have their side effects reduced. Each study is designed to answer scientific questions and to find new and better ways to help patients. The results help to determine what the best treatments are and help improve care for patients in the future. Before a new treatment is tried with patients, it is carefully studied in the laboratory. This research points out the new methods most likely to succeed and, as much as possible, shows how to use them safely and effectively. But, this early research cannot predict exactly how a new treatment will work with patients. With any new treatment, there may be risks as well as possible benefits. There may also be some risks that are not yet known. Clinical trials help us find out if a promising new treatment is safe and effective for patients. During a trial, more and more information is gained about a new treatment, about the possible risks and about how well it may or may not work. Standard treatments, the ones now being used, are often the base for building new, hopefully better treatments. Many new treatments are designed based on what has worked in the past, in efforts to improve on this.

Why should I participate?

There are many reasons people take part in clinical trials. As a volunteer in a clinical trial, you are participating in the development of medical therapies - therapies that may offer better treatment and even cures for life threatening diseases and chronic illnesses. People volunteer to participate in clinical trials for a number of reasons. You may get involved in a clinical trial because you simply want to contribute to a research effort that may help others; you may get involved because you are suffering from a disease or condition for which a good treatment does not currently exist; you may get involved hoping to improve the medical care you receive. If you do not have health insurance, clinical trials are a way to receive study-related medical care. Based on what researchers learn from laboratory studies, earlier clinical studies, and standard treatments as well, they design a trial to see if a new treatment will improve on current treatments. The hope is that it will. Often researchers use standard treatments as the building blocks to try to design better treatments. Although there is always a chance that a new treatment will be disappointing, the researchers involved in a study have reason to believe that it will be as good as, or better than, current treatments. The patients in a clinical trial are among the first to receive new research treatments before they are widely available. How a treatment will work for a patient in a trial can't be known ahead of time. Even standard treatments, although effective in many patients, do not carry sure benefits for everyone. But, patients should choose if they want to take part in a study or not only after they understand both the possible risks and benefits The patients who take part in clinical trial procedures that do prove to be better treatments have the first chance to benefit from them. All patients in clinical trials are carefully monitored during a trial and followed up afterwards. They become part of a network of clinical trials around the country. In this network, doctors and researchers pool their ideas and experience to design and monitor clinical studies. They share their knowledge from many specialties. Patients in these studies receive the benefits of their expertise and receive care from a special research team. Through new programs, community hospitals and doctors are also coming more and more into the research network.

Are There Risks or Side Effects in Clinical Trials?

Yes. The treatments used in clinical trials can cause side effects and other health risks depending on the type of treatment and the patients condition. Side effects vary from patient to patient. Because clinical trials are research into new areas of treatment, the risks involved are not always known ahead of time, though efforts have been made to find out what they might be. For this reason, trials can carry unknown dangers and side effects as well as hoped-for benefits. Patients need to know what is involved in a study-what side effects may be expected-and, as much as possible, what unknowns or uncertainties they may be facing. Your doctor or nurse will tell you about the treatments being tested and will give you a form to read that discusses the risks and hoped-for benefits. If you agree to take part, you will be asked to sign a form, called the informed consent form. Before you sign, be sure you understand what risks you face. Ask the doctor or nurse to explain any parts of the form or trial that are not clear. If you do not want to be in the trial, you may refuse. Even if you sign the form, you are free to leave the trial at any time and can receive other available medical care.
What Is Informed Consent?

Informed consent, a key part of a good trial, is required in studies that are federally regulated or funded as well as by many state laws. Informed consent means that as a patient, you are given information so you can understand what is involved in a trial, including its potential benefits and risks, and then decide freely to take part in it or not. The nature of the treatment is explained by the doctors and nurses in the trial. You are given an informed consent form to read and consider carefully. Ask any questions you may have. Then, if you agree to take part, you can sign the form. Of course, you can also refuse. The informed consent process is an ongoing process. If you enter a trial, you will continue to receive any new information about your treatment that may affect you willingness to stay in the trial. Signing a consent form does not bind you to the study. You can still choose to leave the study at any time.

Can You Leave a Trial at Any Time?

Yes. Just as you can refuse to join a study, you may leave a study at any time. Your rights as an individual do not change because you are a patient in a clinical trial. You may choose to take part or not, and you can always change your mind later, even after you enter a trial. You may also refuse to take part in any aspect of the research. If you have questions at any time about any part of the study, be sure to ask your doctors. If you are not satisfied with the answers, you may consider leaving the study. If you decide to leave, it will not be held against you. You can freely discuss other possible treatments and care with your doctors and nurses. 

What Protection Do You Have as a Patient in a Clinical Trial?

The ethical and legal codes that govern medical practice apply to clinical trials. In addition, most clinical research is federally regulated or federally funded (at least in part), with built-in safeguards to protect patients. These safeguards include regular review of the protocol (the study plans) and the progress of each study by researchers at other places. For example, federally funded and federally regulated clinical trials must first be approved by an Institutional Review Board (IRB) located at the institution where the study is to take place. IRBs, designed to protect patients, are made up of scientists, doctors, clergy and other people from the local community. An IRB reviews a study to see that it is well designed with safeguards for patients and that the risks are reasonable in relation to the potential benefits. Federally supported or regulated studies also go through reviews by a government agency, which sponsors and monitors many trials around the country. Any well run clinical trial, whether federally supported or not, is carefully reviewed for medical ethics, patient safety, and scientific merit by the research institution. Every study should provide for monitoring the data and the safety of patients on an ongoing basis. Informed consent is also an important process that helps to protect patients. After patients join a clinical trial and it progresses, the doctors report the results of the trial to scientific meetings, to medical journals and whose articles are approved by experts, and to various government agencies.

How Are Clinical Trials Conducted?

The doctors who conduct a clinical trial follow a carefully designed treatment plan called a "protocol." This spells out what will be done and why. Studies are planned to safeguard the medical and psychological health of patients as well as to answer research questions. Some clinical trials test one research treatment in one group of patients. Other trials compare two or more treatments in separate groups of patients who are similar in certain ways, such as the extent of their disease. This way, the treatment groups are alike and the results from each can validly be compared. One of the ways to prevent the bias of a patient or doctor from influencing study results is "randomization." If a patient agrees to be randomized, this means he or she is selected by chance to be in one group or another. The researchers do not know which treatment is best. From what is known at the time, any one of the treatments chosen could be of equal benefit to the patient. If a treatment in a trial is not helping the patient, the patient's doctor can decide to take him or her out of the study. Of course, the patient can decide to leave, as well, and still receive other available care. There are regular reviews of the results of a trial and the information is shared. This is important, because if a treatment is found to be too harmful or not effective, it is stopped. Also, when there is firm evidence that one method is better than the others in a study, the trial is stopped and all patients in the trial are given the benefit of the new information. Such information may help present and future patients. Throughout a clinical study, a patient's personal doctor will be kept informed of the patient's progress. Patients are encouraged to maintain contact with their referring doctors.

How Are Trials Divided Into Phases?

In a Phase I study, a new research treatment is given to a small number of patients. The researchers must find the best way to give a new treatment and how much of it can be given safely. They watch carefully for any harmful side effects. The research treatment has been well tested in laboratory and animal studies but no one knows how patients will react. Phase I studies may involve significant risks for this reason. Phase II studies determine the effect of a research treatment. Each new phase of a clinical trial depends on and builds on information from an earlier phase. If a treatment has shown activity against the disease in Phase II, it moves to Phase III. Here it is compared with standard treatment to see which is more effective. Often researchers use standard therapy as the base to design new, hopefully better treatments. Then in Phase III, the new treatment is directly compared to the old one. In Phase IV studies, the new research treatment becomes part of standard treatment in patient care.
How Do I Participate?

Please feel free to call our office at 501-227-6179 or email to info@clincialtrialsinc.com. Someone will ask you a few simple questions to see if you might qualify for any studies we are conducting. Medical records may be required.

How much do you pay?

We do NOT pay for your participation. There are reimbursement/compensation programs for your time and travel. Amounts vary for each study depending on study requirments. Please call for this information.

Severe Weather in Arkansas

Hey guys - I have to admit one of my major fears is Tornados.  I guess because the unknown can be scary!  We know there is a moderate chance of tornados and we take shelter, but what will the storms actually do?  The funnel cloud last night in WLR was the largest I've ever seen, but thankfully it didn't touch down.  Unfortunately for the folks in Vilonia it did and we have lost more lives with this vicious storm.  I pray that the storms coming this evening will just bring Thunderstorms and no more straight-line winds or tornados.  

REMEMBER:  Always take cover in the most interior part of your home on the lowest level, away from windows and other possible debris.  DO NOT try to drive over an area with running water, it can be very dangerous and even deadly.

http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/tornadoes/

Prayers to those families we have lost and to keep us safe in the upcoming storms!

New Guidelines for Diagnosing Alzheimers

NIA NEWS
For Immediate Release
Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Alzheimer's diagnostic guidelines updated for first time in decades

NIH-supported revision also proposes staging of disease, potential use of biomarkers

For the first time in 27 years, clinical diagnostic criteria for Alzheimer’s disease dementia have been revised, and research guidelines for earlier stages of the disease have been characterized to reflect a deeper understanding of the disorder. The National Institute on Aging/Alzheimer’s Association Diagnostic Guidelines for Alzheimer’s Disease outline some new approaches for clinicians and provide scientists with more advanced guidelines for moving forward with research on diagnosis and treatments. They mark a major change in how experts think about and study Alzheimer’s disease. Development of the new guidelines was led by the National Institutes of Health and the Alzheimer’s Association.
The original criteria were the first to address the disease and described only later stages, when symptoms of dementia are already evident. The updated guidelines announced today cover the full spectrum of the disease as it gradually changes over many years. They describe the earliest preclinical stages of the disease, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia due to Alzheimer’s pathology. Importantly, the guidelines now address the use of imaging and biomarkers in blood and spinal fluid that may help determine whether changes in the brain and those in body fluids are due to Alzheimer’s disease. Biomarkers are increasingly employed in the research setting to detect onset of the disease and to track progression, but cannot yet be used routinely in clinical diagnosis without further testing and validation.
“Alzheimer’s research has greatly evolved over the past quarter of a century. Bringing the diagnostic guidelines up to speed with those advances is both a necessary and rewarding effort that will benefit patients and accelerate the pace of research,” said National Institute on Aging Director Richard J. Hodes, M.D.
“We believe that the publication of these articles is a major milestone for the field,” said William Thies, Ph.D., chief medical and scientific officer at the Alzheimer’s Association. “Our vision is that this process will result in improved diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s, and will drive research that ultimately will enable us to detect and treat the disease earlier and more effectively. This would allow more people to live full, rich lives without—or with a minimum of—Alzheimer’s symptoms.”
The new guidelines appear online April 19, 2011 in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association. They were developed by expert panels convened last year by the National Institute on Aging (NIA), part of the NIH, and the Alzheimer’s Association. Preliminary recommendations were announced at the Association’s International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease in July 2010, followed by a comment period.
Guy M. McKhann, M.D., Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, and David S. Knopman, M.D., Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., co-chaired the panel that revised the 1984 clinical Alzheimer’s dementia criteria. Marilyn Albert, Ph.D., Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, headed the panel refining the MCI criteria. Reisa A. Sperling, M.D., Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, led the panel tasked with defining the preclinical stage. The journal also includes a paper by Clifford Jack, M.D., Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., as senior author, on the need for and concept behind the new guidelines.
The original 1984 clinical criteria for Alzheimer’s disease, reflecting the limited knowledge of the day, defined Alzheimer’s as having a single stage, dementia, and based diagnosis solely on clinical symptoms. It assumed that people free of dementia symptoms were disease-free. Diagnosis was confirmed only at autopsy, when the hallmarks of the disease, abnormal amounts of amyloid proteins forming plaques and tau proteins forming tangles, were found in the brain.
Since then, research has determined that Alzheimer’s may cause changes in the brain a decade or more before symptoms appear and that symptoms do not always directly relate to abnormal changes in the brain caused by Alzheimer’s. For example, some older people are found to have abnormal levels of amyloid plaques in the brain at autopsy yet never showed signs of dementia during life. It also appears that amyloid deposits begin early in the disease process but that tangle formation and loss of neurons occur later and may accelerate just before clinical symptoms appear.
To reflect what has been learned, the National Institute on Aging/Alzheimer’s Association Diagnostic Guidelines for Alzheimer’s Disease cover three distinct stages of Alzheimer’s disease:

• Preclinical – The preclinical stage, for which the guidelines only apply in a research setting, describes a phase in which brain changes, including amyloid buildup and other early nerve cell changes, may already be in process. At this point, significant clinical symptoms are not yet evident. In some people, amyloid buildup can be detected with positron emission tomography (PET) scans and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, but it is unknown what the risk for progression to Alzheimer’s dementia is for these individuals. However, use of these imaging and biomarker tests at this stage are recommended only for research. These biomarkers are still being developed and standardized and are not ready for use by clinicians in general practice.

• Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) – The guidelines for the MCI stage are also largely for research, although they clarify existing guidelines for MCI for use in a clinical setting. The MCI stage is marked by symptoms of memory problems, enough to be noticed and measured, but not compromising a person’s independence. People with MCI may or may not progress to Alzheimer’s dementia. Researchers will particularly focus on standardizing biomarkers for amyloid and for other possible signs of injury to the brain. Currently, biomarkers include elevated levels of tau or decreased levels of beta-amyloid in the CSF, reduced glucose uptake in the brain as determined by PET, and atrophy of certain areas of the brain as seen with structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These tests will be used primarily by researchers, but may be applied in specialized clinical settings to supplement standard clinical tests to help determine possible causes of MCI symptoms.

• Alzheimer’s Dementia – These criteria apply to the final stage of the disease, and are most relevant for doctors and patients. They outline ways clinicians should approach evaluating causes and progression of cognitive decline. The guidelines also expand the concept of Alzheimer’s dementia beyond memory loss as its most central characteristic. A decline in other aspects of cognition, such as word-finding, vision/spatial issues, and impaired reasoning or judgment may be the first symptom to be noticed. At this stage, biomarker test results may be used in some cases to increase or decrease the level of certainty about a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s dementia and to distinguish Alzheimer’s dementia from other dementias, even as the validity of such tests is still under study for application and value in everyday clinical practice.

The panels purposefully left the guidelines flexible to allow for changes that could come from emerging technologies and advances in understanding of biomarkers and the disease process itself.
“The guidelines discuss biomarkers currently known, and mention others that may have future applications,” said Creighton H. Phelps, Ph.D., of the NIA Alzheimer’s Disease Centers Program. “With researchers worldwide striving to develop, validate and standardize the application of biomarkers at every stage of Alzheimer’s disease, we devised a framework flexible enough to incorporate new findings.”

###

The Alzheimer's Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Their mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. For more information on the Association, visit http://list.niapublications.org/adearalert/lists/lt.php?id=LBoFDAUDBQUCRFVVVkxQAwkPWA%3D%3D. For more information on the new diagnostic criteria and links to the papers referenced below, visit http://list.niapublications.org/adearalert/lists/lt.php?id=LBoFDAUDBQUFRFVVVkxQAwkPWA%3D%3D. Media contact is Niles Frantz at 312-335-5777 or niles.frantz@alz.org.
The National Institute on Aging leads the federal government effort conducting and supporting research on aging and the health and well being of older people. The NIA provides information on age-related cognitive change and neurodegenerative disease specifically at its Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center at http://list.niapublications.org/adearalert/lists/lt.php?id=LBoFDAUDBQUERFVVVkxQAwkPWA%3D%3D For more on health and on aging generally, go to http://list.niapublications.org/adearalert/lists/lt.php?id=LBoFDAUDBQUHRFVVVkxQAwkPWA%3D%3D. To sign up for e-mail alerts about new findings or publications, please visit either website.
About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation's medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit http://list.niapublications.org/adearalert/lists/lt.php?id=LBoFDAUDBQUGRFVVVkxQAwkPWA%3D%3D.
References:

• Clifford R. Jack Jr., et al. “Introduction to Revised Criteria for the Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease: National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Association Workgroups.”
• Guy M. McKhann and David S. Knopman, et al. “The Diagnosis of Dementia due to Alzheimer’s Disease: Recommendations from the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Association Workgroup.”
• Marilyn S. Albert, et al. “The Diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment due to Alzheimer’s Disease: Recommendations from the National Institute on Aging and Alzheimer’s Association Workgroup.”
• Reisa A. Sperling, et al. “Toward Defining the Preclinical Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease: Recommendations from the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Association Workgroup.”

ClinicalTrials_Parkinsons.wmv

Alzheimer's and a genetic link

Our current study for Alzheimer's disease tests for the APEO4 gene that has been linked to Alzheimer's.  So far, our site has learned a few things from this since it has been ongoing for 2-3 years. 

1 - There are many more gene carriers than we originally thought
2 - You may have no family history and still be a gene carrier
3 - You may have a Strong family history and Not be a gene carrier

*Some doctors still do not recommend being tested for the gene because you can be a gene carrier and still Never develop Alzheimer's disease.

What does this tell us?  We still have a lot to learn about the correlation of Alzheimer's and genetics.  Below is a link to another artile relating to this topic.  Let me know if you have any other information regarding this or any questions.

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/41273195/ns/today-today_health/

Let's Talk!

We have just begun with this blog but I truly hope we can turn it into something great, where folks can come and learn from others and hear about their experiences with clinical trials and particularly our clinic and Dr. Biton (the good, the bad and the ugly) but preferably the good :)

You can even give us tips on how to improve our services! 

Here is a little info on Dr. B - He started his own private practice in 1993.  The office consists of 2 clinics - Arkansas Epilepsy Program & Clinical Trials, Inc.  He has worked at all the major hospitals in Little Rock - Baptist, UAMS, VA and St. Vincent. 

Dr. B is a board certified Neurologist with added qualifications in  Clinical Neurophysiology.  He is also an Epileptologist.  He has associations with AES, AAN, AES and SNS. 

Medicine and Clinical Trials use lots of acronyms, so if I ever use any and you are unsure of what I'm talking about, please let me know!

I hope you decide to become one of our followers and invite others as well.  I'm looking forward to this new adventure....

let's talk soon
LL

***Positive results on a MS study - http://www.clinicaspace.com/news_story.aspx?NewsEntityId=216688

Welcome!

Hello!  Clinical Trials, Inc was established in 1993 and we are just now entering into the social media revolution.  Dr. Victor Biton is our Board Certified Neurologist and Director.  We are trying to reach out to those suffering with Neurological diseases such as:

Epilepsy
Alzheimer's
Parkinson's
Diabetic Neuropathy pain
MS

We want to share our studies with folks so they know about all their options.  Research is completely voluntary and is monitored by Sponsors (Pharmaceutical companies), IRB's and the FDA.  Of course, there are always risks like with any new medication you start.  However, without this research we cannot learn more about these disease and how best to treat and ultimately cure them.

Let me know what topics interest you the most and we can start discussing....until then visit our website or facebook pages.

http://www.clinicaltrialsinc.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Clinical-Trials-Inc/102125223167529