Ask the Expert
Dr. Jack A. Klapper Dr. Klapper is now seeing private patients in clinic
Dr. Klapper is always available to answer any and all questions about participation in clinical trials or general questions about Alzhiemer's Disease
Answers From the Expert
Q: Who sponsors the study?
A: The pharmaceutical companies that are researching the medications sponsor all studies, meaning that the cost of the study is not put toward the participant.
Q: How do I know that the study is safe?
A: All studies are monitored closely by the FDA and by an independent review board which protects study participant's rights and safety. Preliminary studies have been done on animals and human volunteers before we enroll patients into our studies. As with all medications, there is always a possibility of side effects. Participants' safety is our first priority and participants receive regular physical and neurological exams, bloods test and ECGs to monitor their health. Subjects are encouraged to report to Dr. Klapper any changes they experience during the study.
Q: Will I be a guinea pig?
A: All drugs that are currently on the market have gone through the process of clinical trial testing. The possible benefit in participating in a study is to be treated with medication that could potentially improve your condition and, in turn, the lives of many others.
Q: How do I know if I have Alzheimer's Disease?
A: The characteristic of AD that differentiates it from other causes of memory problems is the slowly progressing decline of recent memory. For example, finding it hard to remember what you ate for lunch yesterday or who you just met at a party last night. It also requires that other causes of memory loss are excluded, such as stroke, head injury, brain tumor, seizures or drug related memory loss.
Q: Will I have to discontinue my Alzheimer's medications if I choose to join a study?
A: If you qualify for one of our studies, we would prefer that you make no changes to your current medical regime during the course of your participation.
Q: Do I have to come to Denver to participate in one of your studies?
A: Yes, our studies require periodic visits with your caregiver to our facility located close to downtown Denver. Click here to view a map. Reimbursement for travel expenses is a possibility depending on the study.