Treatment of Disturbed Sleep in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy

  • Study Directors: Thomas Neylan, MD and Christine Walsh, PhD
  • Sponsor: University of California, San Francisco
  • Status: Active trial, closed to new enrollment
  • Official Study Title: Treatment of Disturbed Sleep in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)
  • ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04014387
  • Conditions Studied: Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP)
  • Intervention: Suvorexant, Zolpidem, and placebo control
  • Phase: Phase 4
  • Duration of Participation: 6 weeks

Purpose of the Study

The primary objective of this study is to assess the clinical efficacy of two hypnotic drugs, as measured by changes in sleep and general functioning following treatment in an individual with PSP. In addition, this study will examine whether Suvorexant is more effective than Zolpidem for sleep disturbances in PSP. This study will also test the acceptability and feasibility of conducting a remote clinical trial, reducing participant burden by allowing all measures to be completed at home, using internet/phone-based assessment methods and wearable technology. No participant or caregiver will be required to attend an assessment clinic for any assessments throughout the study.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria: Participants must have documentation of a PSP diagnosis, be over the age of 18, have a caregiver willing to participate, speak English, and have a stable residence and a medication history.

Exclusion Criteria: Participants must not have been diagnosed with a major psychiatric disorder, have a neurological condition other than the one being studied, have substance abuse or dependence, or be taking a medication likely to affect sleep outcomes.

What to Expect

Testing: Participants will be asked to complete a variety of questionnaires, interviews, and cognitive assessments with the study staff via phone or video call, and to wear sleep-measuring devices.

The Frequency of Visits: This is a fully remote study. Participants will be screened by phone. If eligible, participants will be mailed a package with medications, assessments, and sleep assessment equipment. Participants will check in with study staff by phone or video 1–5 times a week.

Costs: During the study drug weeks, participants may benefit from participating in the study, but this cannot be guaranteed. In return for time, effort, and expenses, participants will be paid $125. There will be no additional cost for participation.

Contact Information

Study Director: Christine Walsh, PhD[email protected]