The Largest Parkinson's Disease Study Ever Attempted Is Being Made Possible Only With Mobile Research Nurses

Situation

Because Parkinson's disease is a progressive brain disorder that leads to shaking and stiffness, eventually causing difficulty with walking, balance, and coordination, patients are at very high risk of fractures from multiple and sometimes severe falls that can lead to permanent disability and even death. Researchers are studying whether zoledronic acid, approved by the FDA to treat osteoporosis by increasing bone strength, will reduce fractures in people with Parkinson’s disease.

The Trial of Parkinson’s and Zoledronic acid (TOPAZ)¹ is seeking to enroll 3,500 participants over the age of 60, making it the largest double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial ever attempted in people with parkinsonism.