FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
- What is the official title of the research study?
Positron Emission Tomography with [18F]FDG: a Pilot Study of Effects of Essential Dietary Polyunsatured Fatty Acids on Brain Metabolism in Depression and Suicide - How do I find out if I am eligible to participate?
Please call Katherin at (212) 543-5834. After an initial phone conversation, you may be invited to come in to our office for an in-person discussion of whether this research study is right for you. - Is there compensation provided for the screening process?
No, you will not be compensated for the phone screen or the in-person screen. - Is there compensation for participation in these studies?
If you are eligible, you will be compensated $300 for completing the PET and MRI scans. - How long would I have to wait to receive compensation?
Compensation is received 4-6 weeks after completing the research study and is in the form of a check. - What kind of treatment is provided?
If eligible, you will receive up to 6 months of care by a psychiatrist who will monitor your progress. After completion of the 6-week fish oil supplements and all the scans, the doctor will evaluate your needs and if appropriate, will prescribe standard medications. (You would be responsible for the cost of these conventional medications). If you still need treatment after this period has passed, you will be given referrals for continuing treatment elsewhere. - Is psychotherapy involved in treatment?
No. - How often will I have to come in for my appointments?
For at least the first six weeks of the research study, you will meet weekly with a psychiatrist. After this period, the frequency of visits will be determined by your doctor, depending on your symptoms. - Will I be able to remain on my current medications?
Yes. - Can I continue seeing my current psychiatrist if I participate?
Not during the initial 6 weeks of fatty acid administration and scans. After all scans are completed, you may choose to return to your psychiatrist instead of receiving the remaining 5 months of treatment at Columbia University. - Will my records be confidential?
Yes, all records are confidential. - Are there risks to participation?
PET scanning uses a small amount of radiation to create brain images. The amount of radiation exposure is within the FDA limits for safety in research. You might experience continued depression while taking omega-3 fatty acids. Your doctor will monitor your progress; patients who are not experiencing sufficient improvement will begin the conventional treatment phase sooner. All risks will be explained to you in detail when you meet with the research doctor when you come in for your in-person appointment. - Will the results of my PET scan help with my treatment?
PET scans results are performed for research purposes only. The results will not provide helpful information about your illness or guide your treatment. - What kind of training does the research staff have?
All psychologists conducting interviews have a master’s degree or PhD. All psychiatrists administering medication are licensed, board-certified MDs. - What if I sign up for the research study, but decide later that I don’t want to participate?
Participation in this research study is voluntary and you may choose to discontinue your participation at any point.
