Exploring a Probiotic to Reduce Weight Gain and Metabolic Effects in Adults Taking Antipsychotic Medication for Psychosis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how a probiotic called Bifidobacterium longum APC1472 may help reduce weight gain and metabolic problems caused by antipsychotic drugs in people with psychosis. Antipsychotic medications, while effective for psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, often lead to significant weight gain and changes in metabolism that can harm physical health and decrease quality of life. This study explores if targeting gut bacteria can ease these side effects and improve medication adherence and overall wellbeing. Participants will be randomly assigned to take either the probiotic Bifidobacterium longum APC1472 capsules or placebo capsules containing maltodextrin. The study includes a treatment phase lasting 12 weeks, followed by a 6-week washout period. Both groups will take their assigned capsules regularly during the treatment phase to assess the probiotics potential to lessen weight gain, blood sugar changes, and other metabolic effects related to antipsychotic use. During the study, participants will have their weight, glucose levels, waist-to-hip ratio, metabolic markers, cortisol levels, treatment adherence, and food intake behavior monitored at baseline and after 4, 8, 12, and 18 weeks. Blood, saliva, and stool samples will be collected to analyze biological changes. The study follows participants closely to track any improvements or side effects, aiming to support better health outcomes for those taking antipsychotic medications over a total of 18 weeks.

A Probiotic Strategy for Antipsychotic-induced Metabolic Dysfunction