Request for Funding

Medical Student Research Fellowship for Summer 2002

Mentor: Vicki A. Nejtek, Ph.D.
Department: Psychiatry
Room number: St. Paul Medical Center, Professional Building I
Mail Code: 9070
Phone number: 214-648-4972
E-mail: vicki.nejtek@utsouthwestern.edu
Project title: Pharmacotherapy in Bipolar Disorder with Substance Abuse/Dependence

Human subjects IRB approved project number (where applicable): IRB#: 0700-349; #0601-306

Animal subjects IRB approved project number (where applicable): Not Applicable

Project Type: PATIENT-BASED RESEARCH

Brief Description of Project:

Study #1: Lamotrigine in Persons with Bipolar Disorder and Stimulant Abuse/Dependence
The abuse of stimulants, such as cocaine and amphetamines, is especially common in people with bipolar disorder. However, minimal data are available on the pharmacotherapy of people with comorbid bipolar disorder and stimulant dependence. Lamotrigine is a new anticonvulsant that appears to have favorable results in the treatment of manic and depressive symptoms. However, to this date, no studies have examined lamotrigine for mood and drug cravings in bipolar disorder with stimulant abuse/dependence. We will determine the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of lamotrigine for the treatment of stimulant abuse/dependence in persons with bipolar disorder.

Study #2: Naltrexone in Adolescents and Young Adults with Bipolar Disorder and Alcohol Abuse/Dependence

The abuse of alcohol is especially common in people with bipolar disorder. However, very little is known about the pharmacotherapy of people with both bipolar disorder and alcohol abuse/dependence. Naltrexone is an FDA-approved medication which is used to treat people with alcohol dependence, but no studies to date have examine the use of naltrexone in those who also have bipolar disorder. We will determine the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of naltrexone for the treatment of alcohol abuse/dependence in young persons with bipolar disorder.

Previous Research Activities or Publications with Medical Students:
Over the last 2 ½ years, I have co-supervised the research activities of several UTSW summer medical students, and I have taught medical student electives in addition to teaching PGY3 and 4 seminars for the last 2 years.

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