Premedication for Claustrophobic Patients for MRI Scan
This study aims to find out if certain medicines can help people who get very anxious or scared (claustrophobic) when they need an MRI scan. Many people find the narrow, noisy MRI scanner triggers their fear of being trapped. This research is testing two medications, Lorazepam and Clonidine, either alone or together, to see if they can make the MRI experience easier. Participants will try different medicines before different MRI scans. They will fill out questionnaires before and after each scan to measure their claustrophobia and general anxiety, helping researchers understand which treatment works best to reduce these feelings.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine needing an important scan, but the idea of being in a narrow, closed space fills you with intense fear and panic. This is what it's like for someone with claustrophobia, a strong fear of small or restricted spaces. For many, an MRI scan, which involves lying inside a tube, can be a big challenge because it can trigger these feelings of being trapped or unable to move.
This study is trying to find better ways to help people with claustrophobia go through MRI scans more comfortably. Researchers know that some medicines can sometimes help reduce this fear. They want to compare different medicines to see which one works best. Participants will receive different medicines – Lorazepam, Clonidine, or both together – at different times they have an MRI. This helps the researchers understand how effective each option is for the same person.
To see how well these medicines work, participants will answer questions about their claustrophobia and general anxiety before and after each MRI scan. These questionnaires are special tools that accurately measure how much fear or anxiety someone is feeling. By carefully looking at these answers, the researchers hope to discover which medicine or combination of medicines makes the MRI experience less stressful for people with claustrophobia.
Key takeaways
- This study explores medicines to help with claustrophobia during MRI scans.
- It tests Lorazepam, Clonidine, and a combination of both.
- Participants will try different medicines at separate MRI appointments.
- You'll complete diaries to track your anxiety and claustrophobia levels.
- The study is for adults who've previously struggled with MRI due to claustrophobia.
- Your participation could help future patients have easier MRI experiences.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged between 20 and 99 years old who have been diagnosed with claustrophobia. A key part of qualifying is if you've previously had to stop an MRI scan because of your claustrophobia.
You also need to be able to follow instructions well and consistently fill out diaries about your feelings of claustrophobia and anxiety. This helps the researchers understand your experience accurately.
However, some people won't be able to join. This includes if you have conditions that affect your thinking or understanding, or if you can't give your clear permission to take part. Also, if you've had bad reactions to the study medications (Clonidine or Lorazepam) before, or if you use cannabis or drink a lot of alcohol, you won't be eligible. It's important for your health and the study's accuracy that these conditions are taken into account.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you an adult between 20 and 99 years old?
- Have you been told you have claustrophobia?
- Have you had to stop an MRI scan before because you felt claustrophobic?
- Are you able to reliably fill out questionnaires about your feelings?
- Have you NOT had bad reactions to Lorazepam or Clonidine in the past?
- Do you NOT have conditions affecting your memory or understanding?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you'll be helping researchers understand how best to manage claustrophobia during MRI scans. You will undergo several MRI scans. Before each scan, you will receive one of three possible treatments: a dose of Lorazepam, a dose of Clonidine, or a combination of both. These treatments will be given in a rotating order over your different scan appointments.
On the days before and after each MRI scan, you will need to fill out two special questionnaires. One questionnaire asks about your feelings of claustrophobia, and the other asks about your general anxiety. These diaries help track how you're feeling. You'll also need to agree for your medical records to be reviewed to ensure the quality of the study information. The total duration of your participation will depend on how many MRI scans you have as part of your ongoing pain management.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Salem Anaesthesia Pain ClinicVerified postcodeSurrey, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is claustrophobia?
It's a strong, irrational fear of being in closed spaces or feeling trapped, like in an MRI scanner.
What medicines are being tested?
The study is testing Lorazepam, Clonidine, or a combination of both to help with claustrophobia during MRI scans.
Do I have to take all the medicines?
You will try each medicine or combination in a rotating way over different MRI scan sessions, so you'll experience all options.
How will the researchers know if the medicines work?
You'll fill out questionnaires about your claustrophobia and anxiety before and after each MRI scan to track your feelings.
Can I stop participating if I want to?
Yes, you have the right to leave the study at any time, for any reason, and it won't affect your medical care.
How to find out more
Olu Bamgbade, MD,FRCPC
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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