The staff at the Washington Center design, implement and evaluate weight management/obesity protocols with the goal of increased understanding of obesity as a disease and its related co-morbid conditions. Currently we are conducting several clinical drug trials examining the effects of different drugs on weight loss, and on improving metabolic conditions. In addition, we are working on a project with National Institutes of Health (NIH) examining the relationships between cortisol, body weight and stress.

Our research strengthens the clinical work we do. As obesity experts we gain additional experience with medications before they become available and maintain an ongoing connection with scientists in the field. We have participated in research collaborations with the following Institutes: NIH, GW University Division of Exercise Science, Georgetown University, University of MD and USUHS. As an investigative team for the development of pharmaceuticals for the treatment and management of obesity, we have worked with the following companies: Abbott, Amgen, Arena Pharmaceuticals, AstraZeneca, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Merck & Co., Orexigen Therapeutics, R.W. Johnson, Sanofi-Synthelabo, Schering-Plough, Medtronic and Vivus.

• You have an opportunity to try a new therapy that may make a difference - it may help with weight loss or may serve as a catalyst to help change happen. Note: in trials there is a placebo control so you may or may not receive active medication.
• You will obtain a structured lifestyle intervention focusing on dietary and behavior changes. Most studies provide a lifestyle program; those that don't will provide a regular check-in that can help you focus on change.
• Clinical experience shows a structured approach including regular check-ins, weighing and ongoing support are essential components to being successful.
• You will be making a contribution to a greater understanding of the complexity of this disease
• These medications over time may be available by prescription from your doctor.
• Participation in study for a year or so may help you to solidify behaviors necessary for weight loss and weight maintenance.

Each research study has different requirements and obligations. Intervention intensity varies with each protocol. All drug trials are placebo controlled. We would be happy to discuss current studies for which you might be eligible. There is no cost for participation in research trials.

• Patients participating in research are carefully monitored medically with monthly visits and laboratory evaluations, including frequent physical examinations and EKGs. Clinical information can be made available to your physician with your permission, as needed. All protocols have been reviewed for subject safety and approved by an Institutional Review Board. Additional medical oversight is provided by a Clinical Research Organization working independently of the pharmaceutical companies.
• There are no guarantees when taking any medication, including FDA approved drugs. Each potential participant in a drug study participates in an informed consent process during which all known safety issues that have been identified to date are presented, reviewed and questions answered. Informed consents can be taken home for review and consideration. Our job as a clinical research site is to focus first and foremost on the safety of research study participants. If any safety concerns arise, the medication is often discontinued. At multiple levels - safety is monitored - the FDA, pharmaceutical, IRB, individual investigators, and independent review boards.

• First step: Complete research screening form (60Kb PDF) and fax to 703-807-0038 or email to info @ wtmgmt. com
• The screening process includes medical evaluation to determine a participant's appropriateness for study participation. This typically involves several visits to the Center for informed consent review, physical examination, blood draw, EKG, vital signs-BP, weight, waist circumference, questionnaires and an interview. Some studies require more intensive screening procedures such as an echocardiogram, DEXA (to ascertain body-fat composition, etc.)
• Regular ongoing visits to the Center according to protocol requirements. At these visits a participant is weighed, vital signs are checked, side effects and overall health status is assessed. Many protocols have ongoing regular visits with study dietitian or behaviorist.