The C.U.R.E. Addiction Center of Excellence: Brain Mechanisms of Relapse and Recovery Cocaine Study

FAQ

What is the CURE Cocaine Study?

The University of Pennsylvania’s Treatment Research Center is currently conducting a research study to find predictors of relapse and recovery in people addicted to cocaine through the use of brain (fMRI) and behavioral measures (computer tasks & questionnaires).

What is fMRI?

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) is a painless technique that takes special pictures of your brain and does not involve radiation or injections.  In this study it is used to measure brain reactions/responses to cocaine cues.

How long will I be involved in the study?

You will participate in this study for about 6 months with an initial inpatient stay of about 7-10 days.  Your participation will involve 12 weeks of drug counseling and behavioral therapy during the treatment period and 12 weeks of follow-up visits.

How long is the inpatient stay?

You will stay inpatient full time for the first 7-10 days of your participation in this study at Presbyterian Hospital’s substance abuse inpatient unit.  Presbyterian Hospital is located at 51 N 39th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104.

Is the study confidential?

All of the information that you provide in this study will be kept strictly confidential.  You will be assigned a subject code number so your name will not be associated with information collected or identified anywhere in the research results.

How will I benefit from this study?

Addiction is a major problem in our society and as of yet there is no FDA-approved intervention to treat cocaine dependence.  This study may provide information that leads to effective strategies (behavioral training, medications, or both) to treat cocaine dependence and possibly prevent relapse.  You will be contributing to our knowledge about ways to help others with cocaine use problems.

Can I choose to leave the study?

Your participation in the study is completely voluntary.  You may withdraw at any time without affecting your present or future care.

Will I have to pay for my inpatient stay or therapy?

There is no charge for the inpatient stay, therapy or any assessment or lab tests you will receive in this study.

Will I be compensated?

You will be compensated for research assessments.

How do I  know if I am eligible for this study?

Men and women ages 18-60 who use crack cocaine may be eligible for this study.  Please call 1-800-528-5527 to speak to a research assistant who will conduct an initial phone screen to help determine your eligibility for this study.  If you pass the initial phone screen you will be scheduled to come in for additional screening procedures to determine final eligibility.