RecruitingPhase 4NCT06562608

Anticholinergic Deprescription in Schizophrenia

Neural Mechanisms of Anticholinergic Burden in Mid- to Late-Life Schizophrenia Spectrum

Sponsor

Deepak K. Sarpal, M.D.

Enrollment

105 participants

Start Date

Feb 1, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Schizophrenia Schizoaffective Disorder

Summary

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

Min Age: 40 YearsMax Age: 70 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study tests whether slowly stopping anticholinergic medications (benztropine or trihexyphenidyl) — drugs often prescribed to manage movement side effects of antipsychotic treatment — is safe and beneficial for people with schizophrenia who no longer have significant movement problems, and whether removal improves thinking and memory. **You may be eligible if...** - You are aged 40–70 with a confirmed diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder - You have been taking benztropine or trihexyphenidyl for at least 6 months - You have minimal or absent movement side effects at this time - You are willing and able to provide informed consent **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have a serious neurological condition (e.g., Parkinson's disease, dementia, multiple sclerosis, brain injury) - You have an active substance use disorder - You have a pacemaker or other MRI contraindication - You have a significant risk of suicidal or aggressive behavior - You are receiving electroconvulsive therapy Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

DRUGAnticholinergic Deprescription

per routine clinical care, people in the active arm of the study will undergo deprescription of benztropine or trihexyphenidyl per routine clinical care.

DRUGNo Anticholinergic Deprescription

In this arm, no deprescription of benztropine or trihexyphenidyl will occur.