Exploring the Use of Transdermal Methylphenidate to Reduce Fall Risk in Patients With Dementia. (NCT01825577) | Clinical Trial Compass
TerminatedPhase 4
Exploring the Use of Transdermal Methylphenidate to Reduce Fall Risk in Patients With Dementia.
Stopped: Administrative Reasons
United States14 participantsStarted 2012-11
Plain-language summary
Falls in the elderly are a very common and serious health problem with devastating consequences. Those with dementia are 5 times more likely to experience falls than older people without significant cognitive impairment. Despite a growing awareness and the use of available treatments, the number of falls and fall related injuries continue to increase. It is important to develop more effective treatments to help reduce the number of falls and prevent injury. The assessments used in this study determine fall risk which predicts the likelihood of falls in the future.
This study will evaluate the possible role of Methylphenidate, Ritalin, in preventing falls and improving symptoms of apathy, or indifference. Methylphenidate is FDA approved for the treatment of ADHD but is not currently approved by the FDA for preventing falls or improving apathy(lack of interest) in the elderly. The methylphenidate used in this study will be absorbed through the skin by wearing a small patch near the hip area.
The specific primary aim of this open label study is to determine if use of transdermal Methylphenidate (t-MPH) causes a reduction in fall risk in patients with dementia.
The hypotheses to be tested is that after receiving t-MPH for 4 weeks, subjects will show improvement in gait and mobility assessment scores when compared to gait and mobility scores at screening.
Who can participate
Age range
65 Years – 95 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion criteria
. 65- 95 years of age
. Ability to ambulate (may use walking aid)
. Male or Female
. Clinical diagnosis of Dementia
. Identified as fall risk by nursing staff
Exclusion criteria
. Clinically significant musculoskeletal, cardiovascular or respiratory diseases.
. Clinically significant vestibular disorder
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.