Anticholinergic Deprescription in Schizophrenia

Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phasePhase 4
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
Age40-70
SponsorDeepak K. Sarpal, M.D.

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

105 Participants
are divided into 3 treatment groups

Sponsors and collaborators

Deepak K. Sarpal, M.D.

Lead sponsor

University of Pittsburgh

Sponsor institution

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

Collaborator