New Jersey Neuroscience Institute Restless Leg Syndrome In Children Study To Begin
Edison, NJ— Arthur S. Walters, MD, Director of the Sleep Disorder Center at New Jersey Neuroscience Institute (NJNI), JFK Medical Center, is set to begin a clinical research study testing the investigational use of a marketed drug in children ages 12 to 17 who suffer restless leg syndrome (RLS). The study will begin February 14, 2005.
Dr. Walters is recognized nationally and internationally as an expert in the field of sleep medicine and will serve as principal investigator for the study. The study will evaluate the effect and dosage level of the drug ropinirole in patients ages 12 to 17 with RLS.
Deviyani Mehta, Clinical Trials Coordinator at NJNI comments, “The symptoms parents may notice in children with RLS generally include growing pains, an urge to move the legs that worsens during sleep or inactivity, leg discomfort and sensations that may be described as creepy-crawly, and difficulty sleeping. Symptoms are often reduced from rubbing one’s legs, walking around, or increased movement.”
Mehta encourages parents of children age 12 to 17 who experience these symptoms to participate in the volunteer study. All office visits, medical evaluations, and study medications will be provided at no cost. To participate in the study, parents should call 732-321-7000, ext. 68897.
The New Jersey Neuroscience Institute at JFK Medical Center is a comprehensive facility designed exclusively for the diagnosis, treatment, and research of complex neurological and neurosurgical disorders in adults and children. Services offered at the Institute include programs in minimally-invasive and reconstructive spine surgery, peripheral nerve surgery, brain tumors, dizziness and balance disorders, epilepsy, sleep, memory problems/dementia, cerebral palsy, stroke, and spasticity and movement disorders. As a department of Seton Hall University's School of Graduate Medical Education, NJNI serves as the clinical setting for SHU's residency training in neurology.
For more information on the New Jersey Neuroscience Institute, call 732-321-7950 or visit the facility online at www.njneuro.org.