Study of Anticholinergic Drug Reduction to Improve Brain Function and Quality of Life in Adults with Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective Disorder Ages 35 to 70

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether stopping unnecessary anticholinergic drugs, specifically benztropine or trihexyphenidyl, can improve quality of life, daily functioning, and brain function in adults with schizophrenia or related disorders. This study focuses on people aged 35 to 70 who have been prescribed these drugs but may not need them. The study includes a healthy control group for comparison and aims to understand brain changes related to these medications. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups those who will gradually stop their anticholinergic drugs under routine clinical care, those who will continue their current anticholinergic treatment, and healthy controls who have little to no anticholinergic drug use. The treatment phase lasts six months and includes evaluations such as brain imaging MRI and clinical assessments to monitor changes. Throughout the study, participants will undergo baseline and follow-up testing over six months to assess cognitive abilities, quality of life, and brain function. These assessments include measuring brain activity, connectivity, and glutamate levels. The research team will carefully monitor participants for any changes in symptoms or side effects. The total study duration for each participant is six months, allowing researchers to observe the effects of deprescribing versus continuing anticholinergic drugs.

Anticholinergic Deprescription in Schizophrenia