About this trial
In this study, the investigators will examine whether a deprescription of unnecessary anticholinergic drugs (benztropine or trihexyphenidyl) can augment quality of life, functioning, and neurocognition in individuals who with schizophrenia. Individuals identified by clinical services who have unneeded prescriptions benztropine or trihexyphenidyl will be eligible for deprescription and study entry. Following a baseline evaluation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), participants will will be randomized to either staying on their anticholinergic drugs or undergoing deprescription per routine clinical care, and will undergo follow-up evaluations across 6 months. The investigators predict that reducing and deprescribing these drug, if clinically determined to be unnecessary will will enhance functioning, neurocognition
Eligibility criteria
Qualifiers
Primary DSM-defined diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder verified by the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID).
Prescription of benztropine or trihexyphenidyl for at least 6 months
Age 40-70 years.
ACBS score >= 3.
Disqualifiers
Serious anticholinergic side-effects (e.g., fever, blurred vision) indicative of a need for immediate removal of anticholinergics,
Serious neurologic or medical condition/treatment that impacts the brain and Neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson's, dementia, etc.; autoimmune conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and lupus; as well as traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Significant risk of suicidal or homicidal behavior.
Cognitive or language limitations, or any other factor that would preclude subjects providing informed consent.
Trial design
Treatments tested in this trial
- Anticholinergic Deprescription
- No Anticholinergic Deprescription
Treatment groups
Sponsors and collaborators
Deepak K. Sarpal, M.D.
Lead sponsor
University of Pittsburgh
Sponsor institution
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator