Va Office Of Research And Development

This study tests whether providing home-delivered low-sodium meals and short-term dietary counseling helps older veterans with heart failure recover better after a hospital stay. About 1,400 veterans aged 60 and older will be randomly assigned to receive either the meals plus cou…

This study tests a smoking cessation program designed for veterans who have chronic pain. Participants receive counseling over the phone plus nightly automated calls to report their smoking and pain levels. The goal is to see if this approach helps more veterans quit smoking comp…

This study tests whether the drug varenicline (Chantix) can help veterans who smoke at least 5 cigarettes a day but aren't ready to quit. Participants will either take varenicline or use nicotine lozenges to reduce smoking over 12 weeks. The goal is to see if this approach leads …

This study looks at whether low doses of two older blood pressure drugs, spironolactone and chlorthalidone, can safely lower blood pressure in people with moderate to advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). About 160 U.S. Veterans with CKD and high blood pressure will take the dru…

This study is developing and testing a smartphone app called METS4Vets, designed to help veterans with substance use disorders as they move from residential treatment back into everyday life. The app provides motivational and skills-building support. Researchers are enrolling 30 …

This Phase 2 study will test whether empagliflozin (Jardiance), a drug already used for diabetes, can improve blood vessel health and exercise tolerance in 52 veterans with non-diabetic chronic kidney disease. Participants will take either the drug or a placebo for a period, and …

This study tests whether tracking smartphone activity and offering extra support from peer specialists can help veterans with serious mental illness avoid emergency room visits and hospital stays. About 400 veterans who are at high risk will take part. The goal is to catch early …

This early study tests whether a hormone called hCG (Ovidrel) can help men recover thinking and daily living skills after a moderate to severe traumatic brain injury. Fifty men will receive either the hormone or a placebo twice a week for 24 weeks. The main goal is to check safet…

This study tests a new care model for veterans with opioid use disorder that combines infectious disease screening and treatment with their usual medication-assisted therapy in a single appointment. The goal is to make it easier for veterans to get tested and treated for infectio…

This study tests if semaglutide, a drug used for diabetes, can help veterans with alcohol use disorder drink less. About 622 veterans will get either the drug or a placebo shot for 28 weeks. The goal is to see if it safely reduces heavy drinking and improves health.

This study tests two types of non-invasive brain stimulation (rTMS) to help veterans stop smoking. About 56 veterans who smoke at least 10 cigarettes a day will receive either standard or precision-guided rTMS over three weeks. Researchers will measure how much smoking decreases …

This study looks at whether a program called EMPOWER, led by trained peer supporters, can help homeless veterans with substance use or mental health issues stay engaged in care and avoid repeated hospital stays or emergency visits. About 278 veterans in permanent supportive housi…

This study compares a personalized treatment plan for H. pylori infection against the usual standard care in 360 veterans. The personalized approach uses genetic testing and antibiotic sensitivity to choose the best drugs. The goal is to see which method cures more infections wit…

This study tests whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, can help veterans with severe stimulant use disorder avoid relapse. Over 2 weeks, 106 participants will receive either real or sham rTMS, and researchers will…

This study will test a mobile brain-computer interface (iBCI) that lets people with severe paralysis control computers and mobile devices using only their thoughts. Two veterans with conditions like spinal cord injury or ALS will use the device at home. The goal is to see if the …

This study will test whether combining exoskeleton-assisted walking with a mild electrical stimulation to the spinal cord can improve muscle size and bone strength in people with chronic spinal cord injury. Twenty-four participants who have been injured for more than three years …

This study tests whether having a pharmacist guide gout medication adjustments through regular telehealth visits can improve outcomes compared to usual care. It will enroll 310 veterans at five VA medical centers and follow them for up to two years. The goal is to lower uric acid…

This study looks at whether veterans with early-stage high-grade bladder cancer can have fewer follow-up exams (cystoscopies) without harming their health. About 2,500 participants will be randomly assigned to either a low-intensity or high-intensity surveillance schedule. The go…

This study will bring medication for addiction and cognitive behavioral therapy to homeless veterans living in VA supportive housing. The goal is to help them stay housed and reduce substance use. About 8,000 veterans across multiple VA sites will take part.

This study tests a new computer tool that helps doctors figure out the cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) in hospitalized veterans. AKI is common and serious, but its cause can be hard to diagnose quickly. The tool uses rules and artificial intelligence to guide doctors toward th…

This study tests whether a multilevel screening program can increase colorectal cancer screening rates among Veterans aged 45-49, an age group now recommended for screening due to rising early-onset cases. Participants are randomly assigned to receive a patient education letter a…

This study investigates whether screening older veterans (age 65 and older) who have a higher risk of atrial fibrillation—a condition where the heart beats irregularly—can reduce their chances of stroke, heart failure, or death. Participants selected for screening wear a small, w…

This study tests whether two skin treatments—microneedling and a chemical peel—can reduce the number of precancerous spots and skin cancers in older veterans. About 96 veterans aged 60 and older with fair skin and multiple precancerous spots will receive one treatment on one arm,…

This Phase 3 trial tests whether a daily imiquimod cream applied to the face for 12 weeks can prevent new basal cell carcinomas (BCC) in 1,630 veterans at high risk. Participants apply either the active cream or a placebo and are followed for up to 3 years with skin exams. The go…

This study tests whether capsules containing gut microbes from healthy people can prevent future episodes of hepatic encephalopathy (a brain condition caused by liver problems) in 162 veterans with cirrhosis. Participants will take the capsules and be monitored for hospital visit…

This study tests a new program called PREVAIL-VA, where trained peer specialists—veterans who have their own mental health challenges—provide one-on-one support to fellow veterans at risk for suicide. Over 3 months, 306 veterans will receive either this peer support or usual care…

This study tests a 6-week virtual rehabilitation program to help prevent falls in older veterans who have cognitive impairment (memory or thinking problems). Falls are a major cause of injury and hospital stays for this group. The program is delivered remotely via video calls and…

This study tests whether a live, home-based virtual balance class can reduce fall risk in older veterans. 110 veterans aged 65+ at risk for falls will either take the virtual balance class three times a week for three months followed by a standard wellness program, or just the we…

This study tests whether a one-hour peer-led discussion about secure firearm storage can help veterans store their guns more safely, reducing suicide risk. About 100 veterans who own firearms and currently store them unsafely will take part. Half will have the peer discussion; th…

This study will test two types of personalized modular cushions for 30 Veterans who use wheelchairs full-time. Each participant will try a gel ball cushion and a squishins cushion for two weeks each. Researchers will measure pressure, temperature, humidity, and user satisfaction …

This early-phase trial tests a wearable device that delivers mild electrical stimulation to a nerve near the genitals, aiming to improve bladder control in men with spinal cord injury. The study will enroll 12 participants and measure changes in bladder capacity and device usabil…

This study tests whether a trained community health worker, who provides remote support, can reduce the burden and improve satisfaction for rural caregivers of older veterans with serious illnesses like dementia or cancer. About 480 care partners will be randomly assigned to rece…

This study tests a 12-week telehealth program called PARTNER-MH, where trained peer specialists help minoritized veterans navigate mental health care, address social needs, and improve communication with clinicians. The trial will enroll 268 veterans with depression, anxiety, or …

This study tests whether combining the medication duloxetine with a structured walking program can improve physical function, reduce pain, and ease depressive symptoms in veterans with knee osteoarthritis. Participants will be assigned to either the drug-plus-exercise group or a …

This study tests a sleep treatment called TranS-C, adapted for veterans with PTSD and sleep problems. The goal is to improve sleep, reduce nightmares, and help veterans function better in daily life. 182 veterans will receive either the sleep treatment or usual care to see if it …

This Phase 3 trial tests whether combining transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with yoga can ease chronic low back pain in 213 veterans. TMS uses magnetic pulses to gently stimulate brain areas involved in pain, while yoga adds stretching and strengthening. The goal is to red…

This study tests whether psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, can help veterans with depression that hasn't improved with at least two other treatments. 240 veterans will receive either psilocybin or a placebo in a controlled setting. The goal is to see if it red…

This study tests two natural brain molecules as a safe, non-addictive treatment for chronic low back pain in 108 U.S. military veterans aged 18-65. The goal is to reduce pain severity and improve daily function without the risks of opioids. Participants will receive the experimen…

This study tests a web-based program called MOVED for veterans with PTSD. The program uses videos of kind or brave acts to inspire positive feelings and set personal goals. Over 4 weeks, 250 veterans will either use MOVED or a supportive control program. Researchers will check if…

This study tests whether a decision-making tool can help veterans with sleep apnea choose and stick with a treatment that works for them. About 128 veterans will be randomly assigned to receive either a brief education program or the same program plus a personalized tool. The goa…

This pilot study tests a 16-week physical activity and power training program for up to 30 older Veterans with advanced chronic kidney disease. The main goal is to see if the program is doable and well-tolerated. Participants will be pre-frail or have difficulty walking, and the …

This study tests whether a drug called allopregnanolone can reduce depression and pain in veterans who have had a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). About 132 participants will receive either the drug or a placebo through an IV. Researchers will check symptoms during the infusion…

This study tests whether suvorexant, a medication already approved for insomnia, can help Veterans with PTSD and sleep problems better unlearn fear responses. About 40 Veterans will take either suvorexant or a placebo for 7 nights while researchers measure their skin responses to…

This study tests a coordinated rehab program for 74 veterans with head and neck cancer. The program combines standard swallowing therapy with proactive hearing and balance checks and a nurse assessment to find other rehab needs. The goal is to reduce stress and improve well-being…

This study tests a new prosthetic foot called the Slope Adaptive Foot (SAF) that automatically adjusts to slopes and uneven ground. Thirty veterans with below-knee amputations will try both the SAF and a standard hydraulic foot to see which one improves their ability to take part…

This study will develop and test a home-based upper arm exercise bike that works with video instruction and virtual reality apps, designed specifically for wheelchair users. Ten veterans who use wheelchairs will try the system for several weeks. The goal is to see if they find it…

This study will test whether a microprocessor-controlled knee (MPK) helps 20 veterans with above-knee amputation walk better and feel more confident compared to a standard mechanical knee. Participants will first use their regular knee, then switch to the smart knee for two month…

This study tests a 12-session group therapy designed specifically for veteran men who experienced military sexual trauma (MST). The goal is to reduce shame and improve recovery, belonging, and mental health. Researchers will interview veterans and clinicians, then run a small pil…

This study tests a new approach called Personalized Safety Plans (PSP) for veterans who are hospitalized due to suicide risk. The goal is to create a tailored plan during a single session, followed by brief coaching calls twice a month for three months after discharge. Researcher…

This study tests a group program called Veteran Voices and Visions (VVV) for veterans with psychosis who hear voices. The program, led by a peer specialist and a clinician, aims to reduce distress and help veterans feel a sense of belonging. 160 veterans will be randomly assigned…

This study tests a guided self-help program for veterans with moderate depression. Participants follow a workbook and get coaching sessions from their VA primary care team. The goal is to see if this approach is practical and helps reduce depression symptoms, potentially making m…

This study tests whether adding peer support helps veterans use mental health apps more effectively to reduce psychological distress like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. About 384 veterans from three VA primary care clinics will try different levels of peer coaching while using th…

This study tests two treatments—mirabegron (a drug) and exercise-based behavioral therapy—for overactive bladder in people with Parkinson's disease. Researchers want to see if combining treatments helps those who don't respond to one alone. The trial will involve 146 participants…

This study tests a patient empowerment program for veterans with spinal cord injury and neurogenic bladder who have had at least one urinary tract infection in the past year. The program provides training and tools to help them recognize when antibiotics are not needed and advoca…

This early-stage study tests a new anti-CD14 injection for knee osteoarthritis in 30 Veterans. The goal is to see if the shot is safe and feasible, and if it can reduce pain and improve function. Participants will receive either a low dose, high dose, or placebo injection and be …

This study tests whether a rapid, 5-day course of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans. Ninety veterans with chronic PTSD who are still symptomatic despite ongoing treatment will receive either real TMS or a sham procedure. The goal is to s…

This study tests a personalized health coaching program for veterans with chronic musculoskeletal pain. The goal is to help them develop and stick with self-care plans. Thirty veterans will participate to see if the program is feasible and acceptable.

This study tests a new, non-drug treatment for veterans with ADHD who still struggle with impulsivity despite medication. The treatment, called intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS), uses magnetic pulses to gently stimulate brain areas linked to self-control. Thirty-five ve…

This study tests whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called tDCS, combined with computer-based cognitive training, can improve memory, attention, and multitasking in veterans with mild traumatic brain injury and PTSD. Forty-six veterans will receive either real or …

This study tests a small, portable device called PEP Buddy that Veterans with COPD wear around their neck to help control breathlessness. Researchers will compare it to a sham device that looks the same but only provides the pressure of normal pursed-lip breathing. The goal is to…

This study tests whether atomoxetine, a non-addictive ADHD medication, can improve attention, thinking skills, and quality of life in 160 veterans with PTSD who also have attention problems. Participants will receive either atomoxetine or a placebo for 12 weeks. The goal is to se…

This early-stage study tests whether a special MRI that highlights acidic areas can help surgeons see and remove more of an aggressive brain tumor called glioblastoma. The study involves 12 VA patients with newly diagnosed or recurrent glioblastoma. The main goal is to check if t…

This early-stage study tests a brief couples therapy for 80 Veterans with PTSD and alcohol use disorder. Veterans receive individual treatment while attending 3-4 sessions with their romantic partner. The goal is to see if involving loved ones improves treatment satisfaction and …

This study will test a one-day acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) program for 50 veterans who have both inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and a mental health condition like depression, anxiety, or PTSD. The goal is to see if this brief therapy can improve their quality of lif…

This study tests a sleep therapy called SleepSMART for older veterans who have both insomnia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). The therapy adapts standard insomnia treatment with extra memory and learning support. Researchers will compare SleepSMART to standard therapy in 150 …

This phase 2 trial tests whether low intensity focused ultrasound, aimed at a deep brain region called the amygdala, can ease PTSD symptoms in 60 veterans. The treatment is non-invasive and uses sound waves similar to diagnostic ultrasound. Researchers will measure symptom change…

This study tests a program called Peer Support for Whole Health, where trained Veterans (peer specialists) help other Veterans improve their relationships, work, and daily life. The program focuses on values and self-care. Researchers want to see if it boosts well-being and menta…

This Phase 3 trial will test a web-based program called IMPACT for 250 veterans who have both opioid use disorder and chronic pain. The program includes 9 online modules and weekly feedback from a coach, all done from home. The goal is to see if it reduces how much pain interfere…

This study aims to see if peer support can help pregnant and postpartum veterans who have serious mental illness. Researchers will develop a program where trained peer specialists offer support, then test it with 24 veterans to see if it is helpful and practical. The goal is to i…

This study tests a new treatment called Headache reprocessing for people with persistent headaches after a mild traumatic brain injury. It will involve 60 veterans and compare the new treatment to a headache education program. The goal is to see if the treatment is safe, practica…

This study tests whether a gamification program—using game-like rewards and challenges—can help veterans with Parkinson's disease become more physically active. About 110 veterans will either use the gamification program or continue their usual routine. The goal is to see if incr…

This study tests whether a 12-week home exercise program, led remotely by a coach, can improve fitness and daily function in 100 veterans aged 40+ who were exposed to burn pits during deployment. Participants will either do the tele-exercise or receive standard health education. …

This pilot study will test a new type of talk therapy called ACT-SHARE for veterans who have both PTSD and alcohol problems and are struggling with conflict in their romantic relationships. The therapy aims to help veterans manage difficult thoughts and feelings and take actions …

This study will test a mobile app designed to help veterans who have both PTSD and depression. The app teaches skills to manage emotions and relationships, based on a proven talk therapy. Forty veterans will use the app and answer surveys to see if it improves their daily functio…

This study tests a program called BOOST-OA designed to help veterans with knee osteoarthritis stick to their home exercise routines. The program includes goal-setting tools during physical therapy and follow-up health coaching calls for 9 months after therapy ends. Researchers wi…

This study tests a self-help program for 200 post-9/11 veterans who have depression or PTSD symptoms but are not in therapy. The program teaches healthy coping skills and how to find support services. Researchers will compare the self-help group to those receiving standard resour…

This study will test a version of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) specially designed for women veterans aged 45 and older who are dealing with menopause symptoms. The therapy teaches practical coping strategies for hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep problems. Researchers wil…

This study is creating a special exercise program called power training to help older veterans improve their mobility. Researchers will work with 30 veterans aged 65 and older who are part of the Gerofit program. The goal is to see if the program is practical and liked by partici…

This study will measure how different types of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) change brain activity in 250 military veterans with major depressive disorder. Researchers hope to use this information to develop more personalized brain stimulation treatments. Participants w…

This study aims to develop new methods to help veterans with vision loss caused by age-related macular degeneration. About 20 veterans aged 50 and older with reduced vision will take part. Researchers will measure how well they recognize objects and how their brains respond befor…

This study looks at how a 12-week aerobic exercise program affects brain activity and stress hormones in veterans with overweight or obesity. Researchers will use brain scans and stress tests to see if exercise changes how participants react to pictures of high-calorie foods and …

This study tests whether trained veteran peer navigators can help men aged 40-69 make informed choices about PSA screening for prostate cancer. Participants will receive a decision coaching session to understand the pros and cons of screening. The goal is to see if this approach …

This study works with 40 veterans who have PTSD to understand why many don't start recommended therapies like CPT or PE. Researchers will look at the treatments veterans try first and how that affects their next steps. The goal is to create a program that helps veterans get the r…

This study aims to find better ways to help Veterans quit smoking when they come in for lung cancer screening. Since smoking causes most lung cancers, combining screening with stop-smoking support could save more lives. The project will test new processes at a few VA sites and me…

This study tests whether adding a career counseling program called Purposeful Pathways to standard job training helps veterans with mental health and substance use disorders find and keep quality jobs. About 254 veterans from three VA sites will take part. The goal is to improve …

This study tests a group program to help veterans with serious mental illness feel more comfortable and confident working with their doctors and therapists. About 119 veterans from three VA centers will take part. The goal is to see if the program improves teamwork between vetera…

This study will check if routinely measuring walking speed in older veterans (age 60+) can act like a vital sign to spot health problems early. Over 10,000 veterans will take part across VA clinics. Some clinics will use the walking speed results to guide care, while others will …

This study will test whether giving heart specialists detailed feedback about the pacemaker and defibrillator leads they use can improve safety for veterans. Researchers will share national data on lead failure rates with 12 VA doctors and track whether they switch to more reliab…

This study will test a text-message program called VC-OPTIONS to help Veterans with COPD learn about and use virtual care services like patient portals and telehealth. About 40 Veterans will receive texts from VA's Annie program to see if this approach is easy to use and helpful.…

This study tests a program to help mental health providers prescribe smoking cessation medications to veterans with serious mental illness. Researchers will work with 65 providers and veterans to see if the program is acceptable and practical. The goal is to overcome barriers tha…

This study looks at whether adding computer-based cognitive training to walking and resistance exercises can improve walking and reduce falls in older veterans with multiple sclerosis. Thirty veterans will take part in a 10-week program, and their falls will be tracked for a year…

This study looks at whether a special program can help doctors stop ordering unnecessary urine tests for patients before surgery. The program will be tested at six VA hospitals over two years. Researchers will track how many tests are done and if this reduces the use of antibioti…

This study looks at whether adjustable prosthetic sockets can help veterans with lower leg amputations by measuring pressure and comfort during different activities. Twenty-five veterans will use a custom socket with adjustable panels for two weeks, then perform tasks like walkin…

This study tests a combination of motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy (MI-CBT) to help homeless-experienced veterans engage in work, school, or training. 106 veterans who are already housed through VA programs will be randomly assigned to receive either MI-…

This study is developing and testing a program to help older veterans recover their physical function after leaving the hospital. The program adds special assessments and support to an existing VA transitional care service. Researchers will work with 40 veterans aged 65 and older…

This study looks at ways to help VA medical centers put proven health programs into practice for women Veterans in midlife. The programs focus on heart health, weight management, diabetes, mental health, and menopause care. Researchers will test two support strategies at 18 VA si…

This study looks at how deep brain stimulation (DBS) can be adjusted to help people with Parkinson's disease who have trouble with eye alignment and focusing. Researchers will use eye-tracking and brain models to find the best stimulation settings. The goal is to improve vision w…

This study looks at why people with heart failure or those taking opioid painkillers develop central sleep apnea (pauses in breathing during sleep). Current treatments don't work well, so researchers will test combinations of breathing machines and medications in 200 Veterans. Th…

This study aims to see if a brief counseling program can help Veterans at risk for suicide reduce access to firearms. About 50 Veterans and their clinicians will take part. The goal is to find out if the program is practical and acceptable in primary care settings.

This study looks at 40 veterans with chronic spinal cord injury to find any remaining nerve connections below their injury. Researchers will use MRI scans and non-invasive stimulation to measure these connections. The goal is to understand who might benefit from future treatments…

This study tests a new tool called EVOLV-Rx to help doctors reduce unnecessary or risky medications in older veterans living in community living centers. About 1,161 veterans aged 65 and older will take part. The goal is to see if the tool can safely lower the number of unneeded …