Fluoxetine in Pediatric Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

This FDA-funded 12-week double-blind placebo-controlled study aims to determine the safety and efficacy of fluoxetine in the treatment of children and adolescents with BDD. Patients must be 16 years old or younger with a current DSM-IV-TR diagnosis of BDD. Patients will receive a full psychiatric and medical evaluation at no cost, followed by weekly meetings with the study psychiatrist for the first 6 weeks and every other week thereafter. At the completion of the study, each patient will have the option of continuing free treatment with an independent clinician with active medication for an additional 12 weeks.

Ziprasidone in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

This is a 10-week double-blind placebo-controlled study to examine the effectiveness of ziprasidone in treatment of adults with BPD. Patients must be between the ages of 18 and 65 with a current DSM-IV-TR diagnosis of BPD. Patients will receive a full psychiatric and medical evaluation at no cost, followed by weekly meetings with the study psychiatrist for the first 4 weeks and every other week thereafter. Upon completion of the study, each participant will have the option of continuing treatment with an independent clinician.

Brain imaging, Cognition and Other Related Research Studies

fMRI studies in pathological gambling and treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder

This study aims to explore the underlying neurocircuitries associated with response inhibition and reward processing in pathological gamblers and those with OCD. Patients undergo diagnostic assessment and medical evaluation, followed by one fMRI session. Study participants must be between the ages of 18-45, with a current diagnosis of pathological gambling or OCD, and must otherwise be in general good health.

Neurocognition and Temperament Across Impulsive, Compulsive and Autism Spectrum Disorders (CANTAB)

This study includes two visits to the center for diagnostic testing, intelligence testing, and computerized testing to assess cognitive functioning. The purpose of the study is to provide a neuropsychological profile of patients who have OCD spectrum disorders, impulse-control disorders, brain legions, or are healthy patients. Study participants must be between the ages of 12-65 and in general good health.

Intranasal Oxytocin Challenge in Borderline Personality Disorder

This study is a pilot study that will examine the effect of oxytocin administration in individuals with BPD. Patients will undergo a full psychiatric and medical evaluation, and two challenges. Subjects will be randomized in a double-blind fashion to receive either intranasal oxytocin or placebo on their first challenge. The second challenge will be scheduled within 1 to 2 weeks after the first one, and each subject will receive the alternate condition. Patients will be completing some tasks during the challenges. Participants must be ages 18-45 with a DSM-IV-TR diagnosis of BPD.