Clinical Research Trials

Participation in research and clinical investigation is an important commitment of Hoag Neurosciences Center in its mission to provide patients access to leading-edge management and treatment for neurological disorders.

Research Programs

Hoag’s sub-specialized team of neuroscientists are actively involved in research to discover new therapies, drugs and other medical advancements to better the lives of patients suffering from neurological conditions.

For information, please call the neuroscience clinical trials nursing staff at 949/764-8190.

Clinical Trials

Hoag Neurosciences Center is currently accepting patients to participate in a number of clinical research trials. Please contact Laura Whitaker, RN at 949/764-8190 or email laura.whitaker@hoaghospital.org to learn more about each protocol and whether you may qualify. Your participation in any trial is entirely voluntary. You may decide to withdraw at any time without losing the benefits of your standard medical care.

Phase 3 Clinical Trial of Xerecept® (corticorelin acetate injection)
Study NTI 0302, 0303, 0501
Christopher Duma, MD Principal Investigator

XERECEPT® is an investigational drug being evaluated as a potential new treatment for patients who have tumor associated brain edema, or swelling. XERECEPT®, also known as human corticotrophin-releasing factor (hCRF), is a synthetic version of a naturally occurring hormone found in the brain and body. The goal of taking XERECEPT® is to reduce or replace your use of corticosteroids such as Decadron® (dexamethasone). Reduction of steroids such as Dexamethasone may also relieve the side effects of long-term therapy.


Phase 4 Clinical Trial of Visual Field Change in Patients with Partial Seizures
Study A0081096
Barbara Swartz, MD Principal Investigator

If you have been diagnosed with Epilepsy with partial seizures and are currently taking up to three medications for its control, you may be eligible to participate in a research study evaluating an approved medication to be added to your current therapy.

All study-related visits and tests are provided at no cost for the study duration. In addition, epilepsy medications provided by the study doctor will be provided to you at no cost for six months after you complete the study. Reimbursement for travel and inconvenience is also provided.


Phase 1-2 Clinical Trial for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Study MRX-06-101-CP-01-01
David Brown, MD Principal Investigator

Currently, a Phase 1-2 clinical research study is being conducted to evaluate the safety and tolerability of an investigational medication, called MRX-801, when used in conjunction with intravenous tPA and accompanied by ultrasound, in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

MRX-801, when injected into the body, contains sub-micron sized bubbles. The patient’s blood flow carries these bubbles to the clot. Researchers hope that the bubbles, in combination with ultrasound, plus tPA will help to break up the clot.

Initial treatment commences within 3 hours of onset of symptoms. Evaluations will be done within 24-36 hours with a follow-up visit taking place at 90 days post-treatment.


Phase 3 Clinical Trial for Partial Epilepsy
Study No1280 and No1281
Shawn Masia, MD Principal Investigator

If you have been diagnosed with epilepsy and are experiencing 2 to 40 seizures per month, you may qualify for this clinical research study. You must be between the ages of 12 and 75, currently taking 1-2 anti-epilepsy medications. There is no chance of a placebo and an open-label study is available to those who complete the US1280 protocol.

Please call our Research Coordinator, Laura Whitaker, RN at 949/764-8190 or email laura.whitaker@hoaghospital.org to learn more about your possible participation.
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