A Study Comparing Long-acting Methylphenidate (ConcertaTM) vs. Placebo in the Treatment of Memory Loss Due to HIV
Status:
Unknown status
Trial end date:
2014-09-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
This study is being done to see if a drug called long acting methylphenidate (Concerta) is
safe and effective as a treatment for problems with mental function in adults infected with
HIV.
A subset of patients with HIV-associated memory loss have a defect in the speed with which
they learn and process information. Methylphenidate drugs, such as Ritalin or Concerta, have
been shown on tests to improve the ability to rapidly absorb information; these tests are
called "reaction time tests". These drugs are already FDA-approved to treat Attention Deficit
Disorders: ADD or ADHD.
At baseline, all subjects get tests of memory and brain function; then they are split into
two groups. One group on this study will receive Concerta for 2 weeks, and a second group
will receive a placebo x 2 weeks. After that period both groups will receive memory and other
tests of brain function, and then the groups will switch. The first group will receive
placebo and the second will receive Concerta x 2 weeks, followed by more memory and
neurological tests. After that all subjects will have the option to receive Concerta for free
for 8 more weeks. At the last visit all subjects get memory and brain tests again.