Medical University Of South Carolina

This study tests the drug fingolimod (currently used for multiple sclerosis) in people with advanced non-small cell or small cell lung cancer whose cancer has worsened after standard treatments. The goal is to see if the drug is safe and can shrink tumors or slow cancer growth. A…

This study tests whether mailing buprenorphine (a medication for opioid use disorder) to people after they leave the hospital can help them stay in treatment. The goal is to overcome common barriers like transportation and pharmacy access. Twenty adults who started buprenorphine …

This study tests whether formoterol, a drug typically used for asthma, can help people with diabetic kidney disease. About 120 adults with type 2 diabetes and moderate kidney damage will be randomly assigned to receive either formoterol plus their usual care or usual care alone. …

This study tests whether a gentle nerve stimulation (taVNS) combined with intensive hand therapy can improve arm and hand function in infants (8-24 months old) who have one-sided weakness due to a brain injury. Researchers will also use a single pulse of brain stimulation to see …

This study looks at whether switching to e-cigarettes (nicotine vapes) can help people who smoke and are in treatment for substance use disorder quit cigarettes. About 240 participants will either use e-cigarettes or FDA-approved nicotine patches and lozenges. The study lasts 6 m…

This study compares two FDA-approved laser treatments for open-angle glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve due to high eye pressure. The goal is to see if a newer, non-contact laser (DSLT) works as well as the standard laser (SLT) in lowering eye pressure and prevent…

This study tests a simple online questionnaire (e-visit) to help people stop smoking. About 672 adults who smoke daily will be randomly assigned to receive the e-visit or not. The e-visit asks about smoking history and preferences, and may offer a prescription for quit-smoking me…

This study is for people having a stroke caused by a large or medium blood clot in the brain. It compares different methods of removing the clot to see which leads to the best recovery and least disability. The goal is to find the safest and most effective approach for each patie…

This study looks at whether a therapy program with a mobile app helps pregnant people taking buprenorphine for opioid use disorder stay in treatment longer, compared to just tracking their medication. About 37 pregnant women will be randomly assigned to either four therapy sessio…

This study tests a brief family-involved treatment (B-FIT) delivered via telehealth for veterans with alcohol use disorder. About 400 veterans and a family member or friend will take part. The goal is to see if adding B-FIT to standard therapy helps reduce drinking and improve fa…

This study tests a new kind of CAR T-cell therapy for adults with certain blood cancers (B-cell lymphoma or chronic lymphocytic leukemia) that have come back or not responded to treatment. The therapy uses a patient's own immune cells that are specially modified to be more energe…

This study tests whether two drugs, hydroxychloroquine and nelfinavir, can help keep high-grade serous ovarian cancer from coming back when added to standard maintenance therapy. About 38 women with platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer will take these drugs alongside bevac…

This study tests whether taking sirolimus once a week can safely shrink abnormal blood or lymph vessel growths (malformations) in children and adults. Current daily dosing causes many side effects, so researchers hope weekly dosing works just as well with fewer problems. Particip…

This study tests a new way to give radiation to men with high-risk or advanced prostate cancer. It combines two modern techniques to deliver stronger doses to the tumor while sparing healthy tissue. The goal is to see if this approach is safe and works better than standard radiat…

This study tests a 5-day course of radiation before surgery for soft tissue sarcoma in the arms or legs. The goal is to treat the cancer and prevent spread while preserving healthy tissue. About 40 adults will take part to see if this shorter radiation is safe and effective.

This study tests whether varenicline (Chantix) helps people quit cigarettes and reduce cannabis use. About 200 adults in South Carolina who smoke and use cannabis will receive either the drug or a placebo, plus counseling and online tools. The goal is to see if the medication imp…

This study tests an online questionnaire (e-visit) that helps smokers in rural areas quit. About 288 adults who smoke daily will be randomly assigned to get the e-visit or not. The e-visit asks about smoking habits and preferences for quit-smoking medications, and may lead to a p…

This study looks at what happens when adults with cannabis use disorder cut back on cannabis. Over 8 weeks, participants get counseling, computer-based therapy, and financial rewards for reducing use. Researchers will track changes in sleep, thinking, cannabis-related problems, a…

This study compares two standard radiation techniques for people with large brain metastases (tumors that spread from other cancers). About 54 adults will be randomly assigned to receive either staged stereotactic radiosurgery or fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy. The goal i…

This study tests two different chemotherapy combinations in people with advanced pancreatic cancer that has spread or cannot be removed by surgery. About 52 participants will be randomly assigned to receive either NALIRIFOX or a modified version of gemcitabine, nab-paclitaxel, an…

This study tests whether simvastatin, a common cholesterol medication, can help the immune system better attack prostate cancer. Men with localized prostate cancer who are planning to have surgery will be randomly assigned to take simvastatin for 8 weeks before their operation or…

This study tests a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called theta burst stimulation (TBS) to see if it can reduce the urge to drink alcohol and lower heavy drinking days. About 86 adults with alcohol use disorder will receive either real or sham TBS over the front part of …

This study tests a new way to help people living with HIV quit smoking. Instead of waiting for patients to ask for help, the program proactively reaches out to offer support. Researchers will compare this approach to standard care and look at what helps or hinders success. The go…

This study looks at whether tobacco-free nicotine pouches (like Zyn) can help people stop smoking cigarettes. Fifty adult smokers will use the pouches for 4 weeks instead of smoking. Researchers will track how many people fully switch and how much their smoking drops. The goal is…

This study tests a new device that gently stimulates a nerve in the ear while babies with brain injuries practice bottle feeding. The goal is to help them learn to eat by mouth faster and avoid needing a feeding tube. About 88 infants will take part in this blinded, randomized tr…

This study tests a 12-18 week combination of chemotherapy (carboplatin and paclitaxel) and immunotherapy (pembrolizumab) for people with triple-negative breast cancer who cannot take standard anthracycline-based chemo because of heart conditions or high risk of heart damage. The …

This study tests whether adding a patient's own stem cells to an islet transplant can improve insulin production and reduce diabetes after pancreas removal for chronic pancreatitis. About 42 adults will be randomly assigned to receive either stem cells plus islets or islets alone…

This study tests a combination of five oral drugs (hydroxychloroquine, metformin, sirolimus, dasatinib, and nelfinavir) to see if they are safe and can control advanced solid tumors or relapsed prostate cancer. About 76 adults with these cancers will take the drugs and be monitor…

This study looks at whether losing weight, with or without exercise, can improve walking and emotional well-being in veterans who have had a stroke and are overweight. About 130 people aged 35-85 who had a stroke at least 6 months ago will take part. Participants will join a life…

This study tests whether a dye called Indocyanine Green (ICG) can help surgeons better see tumor tissue during head and neck cancer surgery. About 30 adults with squamous cell carcinoma who are at risk of recurrence will receive the dye before surgery, and special cameras will ca…

This study tests new, faster MRI techniques to get detailed images of the heart muscle. The goal is to improve diagnosis and treatment planning for people with heart conditions like cardiomyopathy, myocarditis, and ischemic heart disease. 240 adults who already need a heart MRI w…

This study is testing a virtual reality tool to help young people who have experienced trauma reduce their risk of substance use and HIV. The study includes 50 participants aged 15-30 who are men who have sex with men or have substance use disorder. Researchers will use interview…

This early-stage study tests a noninvasive magnetic treatment for diabetic gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach doesn't empty properly, causing nausea and pain. About 48 adults with moderate-to-severe symptoms will receive either real or sham magnetic pulses to the spine.…

This small pilot study tests whether a fast, repeated form of brain stimulation (accelerated TMS) can safely reduce apathy—a common and troubling symptom—in people with Parkinson's disease. Fifteen participants will receive 48 stimulation sessions over two weeks, with follow-up a…

This study tests whether a special training program can change spinal reflexes to improve walking and reduce leg spasticity in people with chronic spinal cord injury. Researchers will enroll 25 adults who have had a spinal cord injury for at least one year and can walk at least 1…

This study tests whether giving a single dose of methadone during hip replacement surgery can lower pain and reduce the amount of other opioids needed after the operation. About 162 adults having elective hip replacement will take part. Half will receive methadone and half a plac…

This study tests a therapy called Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) delivered over video for 50 young children (ages 2-6) with disruptive behavior who have faced stressful or traumatic experiences. Parents and kids will work with a therapist online to improve parenting skil…

This study tests whether giving n-acetylcysteine (a common supplement) during hysterectomy surgery can reduce the amount of opioid painkillers women need afterward. About 240 women having laparoscopic or robotic hysterectomy will receive either the drug or a placebo. Researchers …

This study tests a new text-message program designed to help cancer survivors who feel depressed connect with mental health care. Researchers will enroll 60 cancer survivors who have signs of depression and own a cellphone. The program sends tailored texts and a referral link to …

This study tests two at-home treatments—smell training and a gentle nerve stimulation device—to help people with long COVID who have lost or distorted their sense of smell. About 145 adults who had normal smell before COVID and are at least one month past infection will participa…

This study is for adults with chronic pain who have been taking prescription opioids for at least 90 days and face extra risks like using sedatives or having a substance use disorder. Researchers will test three steps in sequence: switching to a low-dose buprenorphine patch, addi…

This study tests whether a small, at-home device that stimulates a nerve in the ear can reduce chronic pain after a stroke. Researchers will enroll 24 adults who have had a stroke at least 6 months ago and still have pain in their arm or hand. Participants will use the device dai…

This study tests a smartphone app called Moodivate designed to help with depression in adults who have incurable cancer and feel down. About 279 participants will be randomly assigned to use the app or not for 12 weeks. Researchers will track changes in mood, anxiety, and quality…

This study is testing whether a stronger version of a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, called tDCS, is safe for people with major depression. About 20 adults will receive mild electrical pulses through electrodes on their scalp over 5 days. Researchers will monitor side …

This study tests a brief computer program designed to help teenagers aged 13 to 17 reduce their use of cannabis and alcohol. Participants who are already seeking treatment for substance use will use the program and then be followed up at one and three months. The goal is to see i…

This study tests a short video-based therapy called BRIGHT to help head and neck cancer survivors who feel distressed about changes in their appearance. About 180 survivors will be randomly assigned to BRIGHT or a supportive talk session. The goal is to see if BRIGHT reduces body…

This study tests whether a telehealth-based mental health program can help family members of ICU survivors cope with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. About 150 family members will use an online platform and have check-ins. The goal is to see if this approach is practical and helpfu…

This study is testing a mobile app called SUPPORT-T that helps people with progressive pulmonary fibrosis (a type of lung scarring) and their caregivers get palliative care support at home. The app includes a 9-week guided program and virtual support groups over a year. Researche…

This study explores whether using a gentle ear nerve stimulation device at home, along with computer-based brain exercises, can help improve thinking skills and mood in adults aged 45-80 who have noticed changes in their memory or focus. Participants will do 10 sessions at home a…

This study tests whether an accelerated form of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can safely reduce functional seizures (also called psychogenic non-epileptic seizures). Thirty adults will receive up to 30 TMS sessions over 3–5 days. The main goals are to see if the treatme…

This study compares two brief counseling programs for young adults aged 18-25 who use cannabis frequently (20+ days per month). Participants attend two 40-50 minute sessions a week apart and complete follow-ups over 6 months. The goal is to see which program better reduces cannab…

This study tests whether a mild electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve (taVNS) during breastfeeding can help premature or sick newborns improve their feeding skills. Ten infants in the NICU will receive daily taVNS paired with breastfeeding for up to 14 days. Researchers will …

This study tests whether a low-level laser (Nd:YAG) applied to the gums after a tooth extraction can speed up healing and reduce pain. About 39 adults will either get the laser treatment on days 1, 3, and 7 after surgery, or standard care without the laser. Researchers will measu…

This study tests whether training the leg's reflexes can reduce nerve pain in people with spinal cord injury. Researchers will enroll 15 adults who have had a spinal cord injury for at least a year and have nerve pain in their lower leg. The study lasts about 6.5 months and invol…

This study tests a therapy called HOPE for people who have both opioid use disorder and PTSD. Participants must already be on medication for opioid use disorder, like suboxone or methadone. Over 10 to 12 weeks, they will attend therapy sessions and complete surveys to see if thei…

This study tests a non-invasive brain stimulation method called rTMS to treat depression in people with spinal cord injury (SCI). Fourteen adults with SCI and major depression will receive rTMS daily for four weeks. The goal is to see if the treatment is safe and helps reduce dep…

This study is creating and testing a smartphone app to help people with opioid use disorder sleep better. The app uses proven techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia. Researchers will enroll 40 adults who are stable on buprenorphine and have poor sleep. The goal…

This study tests different amounts of a safe, non-invasive brain stimulation called TMS in 60 older adults (ages 60-85) who have mild memory problems and depression. The goal is to find the best dose to improve both mood and thinking, which could help prevent dementia in the futu…

This study tests a mental health support program for 150 people who recently left the ICU. The program includes digital tools, coaching, and psychiatric help to reduce anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms. Participants are compared to those receiving usual care over six months.

This study tests whether giving a single dose of methadone during knee replacement surgery can lower pain and reduce the amount of other opioids needed after the operation. About 162 adults having elective knee replacement will take part. Half will receive methadone and half a pl…

This study tests whether trauma-focused therapy delivered via telehealth can reduce PTSD symptoms in youth aged 7-18 who have experienced trauma. The therapy is provided by community therapists in Puerto Rico. The goal is to see if this approach works and is easy for families to …

This study tests whether a personalized, non-invasive brain stimulation method called rTMS, combined with walking exercises, is tolerable and shows early promise for reducing freezing of gait in people with Parkinson's disease. Up to 15 adults aged 50-80 will receive the treatmen…

This study tests whether a web-based mobile app helps 272 teens and young adults with sickle cell disease learn to manage their symptoms and care for themselves. Participants use the app or standard care, and researchers measure changes in self-management behaviors. The goal is t…

This study tests whether a fast form of brain stimulation (accelerated rTMS) can safely improve apathy—loss of motivation and withdrawal—in people who had a stroke at least 6 months ago. About 40 adults aged 40+ will receive either real or fake stimulation to a brain area linked …

This study aims to improve quitting success for smokers who find it hard to stop with standard medications. About 544 participants will receive free nicotine patches, lozenges, varenicline, or e-cigarettes for 12 weeks, with treatment adjusted based on individual response. All vi…

This early-stage study tests if a single infusion of donor stem cells can reduce long-term pain from chronic pancreatitis. Researchers will measure pain changes, opioid use, and quality of life in 48 adults over 6 months. The goal is to see if this approach is safe and offers rel…

This study tests whether a small electrical device (TENS) can reduce pain when an IUD is placed. About 86 women will get either real TENS or a fake device during the procedure. Researchers will compare pain scores to see if TENS helps.

This study compares two sedative drugs, remimazolam and propofol, for people getting laser treatment for burn scars. The goal is to see which drug causes fewer breathing problems during the procedure. About 136 adults will take part, and each will receive both drugs in separate s…

This study tests whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called TMS can help people stop smoking. Researchers will use MRI scans to guide the stimulation to specific brain areas involved in craving and self-control. The study enrolls 64 adults aged 22-70 who smoke at l…

This study tests if a small, temporary nerve stimulator called SPRINT can safely reduce chronic lower back pain caused by the sacroiliac joint. Ten adults with severe pain will receive the device under the skin for a short time and be followed for three months. The goal is to see…

This study looks at whether a rapid form of brain stimulation, called accelerated iTBS, is practical and well-tolerated for women with postpartum depression. About 40 new mothers will receive up to 12 sessions per day over 5-6 days. The goal is to see if this treatment can quickl…

This study tests whether combining a gentle, non-invasive brain stimulation technique (called iTBS) with computer-based thinking exercises can help people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). About 50 adults aged 60-85 will receive the same brain stimulation but be randomly assi…

This study is testing a wearable sock-like device called the ZIDA Control Sock. It delivers a mild electrical pulse near the ankle to help control bladder function. The goal is to see if using this device at home once a week, in addition to their regular medication, can further r…

This study looks at what happens when menthol is removed from cigarettes and e-cigarettes. About 240 adult menthol smokers will be given either menthol or non-menthol products for 7 weeks. Researchers will track how many cigarettes they smoke and if they can quit for a week. The …

This study tests whether a brain stimulation training technique can improve the connection between the brain, spinal cord, and muscles in people with chronic cervical spinal cord injury. The goal is to see if this training can help restore some movement function. The study involv…

This study explores whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called rTMS can temporarily alter how people with anxiety disorders cope with fear. Researchers will measure brain activity and reactions to emotional situations in 80 adults who recently started anxiety treat…

This study looks at whether taking cannabidiol (CBD) pills can change how breast cancer cells grow or die. About 84 women with invasive breast cancer will take either a low or high dose of CBD or a placebo for up to 56 days before their surgery. The goal is to see if CBD affects …

This study is developing and testing a simple decision aid to help people with opioid use disorder decide whether to start buprenorphine treatment in the emergency department. About 20 adults will try the tool and share their feedback. The goal is to see if the tool helps patient…

This study looks at how cannabis use and stress interact differently in young men and women aged 18-25 who have cannabis use disorder. Researchers will measure withdrawal symptoms, stress reactions, and how soon people start using cannabis again after a short break. The goal is t…

This study looks at whether a modified cardiac rehabilitation program can improve physical and emotional recovery in people who have had a stroke. Researchers will enroll 76 adults aged 18-80 who had a stroke at least 6 months ago and have some leg weakness. The goal is to see if…

This study looks at whether a program called Project Support can help parents and children who are waiting for trauma-focused therapy. About 100 families with a child aged 6-13 will either receive Project Support or continue with usual care. The goal is to see if the program impr…

This study looks at whether sending a text message to check for depression is a good way to screen cancer survivors. About 60 people who have had cancer and own a cellphone will take part. The goal is to see if this method is easy to use and works better than the usual way of scr…

This study looks at how different types of social support—like emotional help, practical aid, and companionship—affect the ability of people with COPD to manage their condition. Researchers will survey 111 adults aged 40 and older with COPD, and interview 20 of them to understand…

This study looks at whether a special alert in the electronic health record can help primary care doctors spot advanced liver scarring in people with fatty liver disease (MASLD). About 225 adults with MASLD and type 2 diabetes will take part. The alert prompts doctors to order a …

This study looks at a hospital-based program that helps people recover after being injured by violence, such as from a firearm. Researchers will track 220 patients' mental health, risk of future violence, and social needs like housing and food. The goal is to see if the program i…

This study looks at how men and women with cannabis use disorder react differently to THC, the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. Researchers will use brain scans to measure changes in brain chemicals and activity related to reward. The goal is to understand these differen…

This study is a registry that gathers medical information from up to 40,000 people who had surgery for brain conditions like stroke, aneurysm, or abnormal blood vessels. Researchers will use this data to better predict outcomes and compare different surgical techniques and device…

This study tests if a device that gently stimulates nerves in the ear (tAN) relieves pain by causing the body to release its own natural painkillers (endogenous opioids). 136 healthy adults will receive either real or sham stimulation, plus an IV that either blocks opioids or is …

This study compares two ways of checking on new mothers after childbirth: in-person visits versus text or phone messages. The goal is to see if the technology-based approach can help detect complications early and reduce emergency room visits during the first six weeks after deli…

This study looks at how drinking and PTSD together may lead to violence between partners. Researchers will observe 70 couples in a lab and track their daily experiences for 28 days. The goal is to understand these connections better, not to test a treatment.

This study looks at how depression affects brain activity and how that changes with a treatment called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Twenty adults with major depression will get brain scans before and after 5 days of TMS. The goal is to see if a new imaging method can …

This study tests a feature called Smart Pass in a heart device (subcutaneous ICD) that may help tell the difference between muscle movement and dangerous heart rhythms. About 71 people who already have the device will do simple arm exercises while the feature is turned on and off…

This early-stage study tests whether personalized brain stimulation can improve hand-eye coordination in people with brain injuries affecting movement. Twenty adults will receive targeted magnetic pulses while their brain activity is monitored. The goal is to see if this approach…

This study looks at whether a program called the Trauma Resilience and Recovery Program (TRRP) helps people who have been seriously injured get mental health support. About 350 English- or Spanish-speaking adults and teens admitted to a trauma center will take part. Researchers w…

This study looks at people taking GLP-1 or GIP medications (like Ozempic) who need surgery or a colonoscopy. It compares standard fasting (nothing to eat or drink for 8 hours) to a 24-hour clear liquid diet to see if there's leftover food in the stomach. Using an ultrasound, rese…

This study is testing a wearable exoskeleton to help improve walking balance in people who have had a stroke. Researchers will measure how the device affects balance during walking on a treadmill. About 21 adults who had a stroke at least 6 months ago and have trouble with balanc…

This study looks at why some people with Parkinson's disease experience thinking problems after deep brain stimulation (DBS). Researchers will scan the brains of 55 participants with DBS implants to see how stimulation changes brain networks. The goal is to help doctors choose be…

This study looks at how social interactions and feelings of closeness affect treatment for opioid use disorder. Researchers will collect daily reports from 230 patients and their close friends or family members. The goal is to find patterns that could lead to more personalized tr…

This study uses a non-invasive technology called transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) to temporarily change activity in a deep brain area involved in anxiety. Researchers want to see if this affects how people with anxiety disorders react to emotional situations. The study invo…

This study looks at how stimulating certain nerves near the ear changes brain activity in healthy adults. Researchers will use an MRI scanner to watch the brain while giving mild electrical pulses to one or two nerves at the same time. The goal is to learn whether stimulating two…

This study looks at how the brain works during tasks involving emotions, attention, and memory in both healthy volunteers and people with depression. Researchers use brain scans and gentle brain stimulation to measure activity. The goal is to gather information that could lead to…

This study tests a program called ENDURE that helps head and neck cancer patients start radiation therapy within 6 weeks after surgery, as guidelines recommend. About 532 adults will be assigned to either the navigation program or usual care. The goal is to see if the program red…

This early-phase study tests whether a 10-week brain stimulation and feedback training program can strengthen the connection between the brain and wrist muscles in people with chronic cervical spinal cord injury. Eleven adults with weak wrist extension will receive non-invasive b…

This study tests a program called REPOSE, where a patient navigator helps families overcome barriers to get their child with sleep-disordered breathing (like sleep apnea) to a specialist. About 80 parents of children aged 2 to 12 will be enrolled. The goal is to see if this suppo…