Va Office Of Research And Development

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

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 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 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 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 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 study will compare two widely used blood thinners, apixaban (Eliquis) and rivaroxaban (Xarelto), in about 10,000 veterans with atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat). The goal is to see which drug better prevents strokes and major bleeding. Participants must already be…

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 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 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 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 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 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 large VA study tests whether giving doctors personalized prediction tools can increase lung cancer screening among Veterans who would benefit most. Lung cancer is the top cancer killer of Veterans, but only 20% of eligible get screened. The trial will enroll over 23,000 Vete…

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 whether a live, home-based virtual exercise program that targets hip muscles can reduce fall risk in older veterans. About 110 veterans aged 65 and older who are at risk for falls will take part. The program is designed to strengthen muscles important for balance…

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 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 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 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 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 a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called tDCS, combined with 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 fake tDCS for 2…

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 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 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 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 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 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 a decision-making tool for veterans newly diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. The tool helps them choose a treatment that fits their needs, followed by a short education program. Researchers want to see if this approach improves sleep quality and treatment us…

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 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 tests whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) can help veterans with ADHD improve their impulse control. Thirty-five veterans with ADHD will receive either real or sham iTBS sessions. The main goal is to see…

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 whether a 12-week coach-led exercise program done at home via video 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 sessions or receive standard health …

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 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 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 is creating a special exercise bike that uses arm pedaling and works with video classes and virtual reality. The goal is to help wheelchair users exercise at home, stay motivated, and connect with others. Ten veterans who use wheelchairs will test the system for about …

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 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 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 tests a sleep treatment designed specifically for veterans with PTSD who also have trouble sleeping. The goal is to improve sleep quality, reduce nightmares, and help veterans function better in daily life. About 182 veterans will participate, and the treatment involve…

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 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 tests a new, coordinated rehabilitation program for veterans with head and neck cancer. The program combines standard swallowing therapy with proactive hearing and balance care, plus a tele-oncology nurse to coordinate other rehab needs. Researchers will compare this t…

This study tests a 4-week telehealth program called I-SLEPT for Veterans leaving subacute rehab. The program combines sleep education and tips for staying active in meaningful activities. Researchers will check if Veterans find the program acceptable and helpful, and whether it i…

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 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 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 study will adapt and test a cognitive behavioral therapy designed for menopause (CBT-Meno) in women veterans aged 45 and older who also have a major mental illness. The goal is to see if the therapy is acceptable and feasible, and whether it can improve daily functioning and…

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 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 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 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 whether suvorexant, a medication already approved for insomnia, can help Veterans with PTSD and sleep problems better process and overcome fearful memories. About 40 Veterans will take the drug or a placebo for 7 nights while their body responses to fear cues are…

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 whether a 5-day course of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans. TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain and is already approved for depression. The trial will compare real TMS to a sham treatment in 90 veterans who …

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 a personalized coaching program to help veterans with chronic muscle or joint pain create and stick to self-care plans. About 30 veterans will try the program for 3 months. The goal is to see if this approach is practical and helpful for managing pain without rel…

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 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 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 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 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 a program called BOOST-OA to help 360 veterans with knee osteoarthritis stay on track with home exercises prescribed by their physical therapist. The program includes goal-setting tools and health coaching calls over 12 months. The main goal is to see if it impro…

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 will check if routinely measuring walking speed in older veterans (age 60+) can act like a vital sign to spot early declines in physical function. Over 10,000 veterans will have their walking speed recorded during primary care visits. The goal is to see if this simple …

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 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 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 how different types of brain stimulation change brain activity in 250 military veterans with major depression. Researchers will use brain scans and recordings to compare standard stimulation with a new method that syncs with the senses. The goal is to gather k…

This study tests two strategies to help VA clinics adopt proven programs for midlife women Veterans. It focuses on heart disease risk, weight, blood pressure, diabetes, and stress. The study involves 18 VA sites and measures how many women use shared decision-making, cognitive be…

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 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 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 deep brain stimulation (DBS) can be adjusted to help people with Parkinson's disease improve their eye alignment and focus. Researchers will use eye-tracking and brain models to find the best stimulation settings. The goal is to reduce double vision and im…

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 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 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 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 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 …

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 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 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.…