"Extended" (Alternate Day) Antipsychotic Dosing
This study is investigating if taking antipsychotic medication every other day is just as effective as taking it every day for people with conditions like schizophrenia. Researchers also want to see if this 'extended' dosing schedule might lead to fewer side effects. Participants will be randomly chosen to either continue their daily medication or switch to taking it every other day. This will be like flipping a coin – a 50/50 chance. The study will last for one year, with regular check-ups to monitor symptoms and side effects. They hope this new way of taking medication could improve well-being and reduce unwanted effects without making symptoms worse.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine you take medication for a health condition. This study is exploring a new way of taking certain medications called antipsychotics, which are used for conditions like schizophrenia. Usually, people take these medicines every day. But what if taking them every other day worked just as well? This study wants to find out if this 'extended' schedule is effective and if it might even reduce some of the unwanted side effects that people sometimes experience with these medications.
The main idea is to see if symptoms stay under control even when the medication is taken less often, and if people feel better overall with fewer side effects. The researchers think that taking the medicine every other day might not make symptoms worse, but could lead to a better quality of life and fewer problems like weight gain or other uncomfortable feelings.
This research is important because finding a way to reduce side effects could make it easier for people to stick with their treatment and feel better day-to-day. It could offer a new option for managing these conditions more comfortably, while still keeping symptoms stable.
Key takeaways
- Tests if taking antipsychotic medicine every other day is as effective as daily.
- Aims to see if 'extended' dosing reduces side effects.
- Participants are randomly assigned to daily or every-other-day groups (50/50 chance).
- The study lasts for one year with regular check-up visits.
- You won't know which treatment group you are in.
- You can stop participating at any time.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you would need to have been diagnosed with schizophrenia or a similar condition. You must be 18 years old or older and be able to speak English. If you're a woman who could become pregnant, you'll need to be using reliable birth control and have a negative pregnancy test when you start.
You also need to have been taking a single, oral antipsychotic medication (Risperidone, Olanzapine, or Paliperidone) consistently for at least three months, at a steady dose within a specific range. You'll also need to show that you've been taking your current medication regularly.
There are several reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if you've recently had certain treatments like ECT, used a long-acting injection of antipsychotic medicine in the last year, or have certain other medical conditions like dementia or severe allergies to the study medications. You also can't be pregnant or breastfeeding, or currently have a substance use disorder.
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 18 years old or older?
- Have you been diagnosed with schizophrenia or a similar condition?
- Are you currently taking Risperidone, Olanzapine, or Paliperidone orally, at a steady dose, for at least 3 months?
- Are you able to speak English?
- Are you *not* currently pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Have you *not* had a long-acting antipsychotic injection in the last year?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be randomly assigned to one of two groups. This means it's like flipping a coin – you have a 50/50 chance of either continuing to take your medication every day, or switching to taking it every other day. Throughout the study, you'll receive your medication (or a dummy pill, called a placebo, on your 'off' days if you're in the every-other-day group) in a way that neither you nor the study team will know which group you're in. This helps make the study results as fair as possible.
The study will last for a year. During the first six months, you'll have a check-up visit every two weeks. For the last six months, these visits will be once every four weeks. In total, you'll have 22 visits to the study doctor's office over 52 weeks. During these visits, the study team will check how you're feeling, monitor your symptoms, and look for any side effects.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Centre for Addiction and Mental HealthVerified postcodeToronto, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What kind of medication is being studied?
The study is looking at common antipsychotic medications like Risperidone, Olanzapine, and Paliperidone.
How will I know if I'm taking medicine every day or every other day?
You won't know which group you're in, and neither will your doctors. This is called 'double-blind' and helps ensure the study results are fair. Your medications will be packaged so you take pills daily, but some might be inactive (placebo).
Will I still take my regular medication for other conditions?
Yes, other psychiatric medications you were taking before the study are generally allowed, and any changes will be noted.
How long do I need to be on my current medication before joining?
You need to have been taking your current antipsychotic medication at a stable dose for at least three months.
What happens if I want to leave the study?
You can leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your standard medical care.
How to find out more
Carol Borlido
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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