The REDUCE study is testing whether reducing the dosage of antipsychotic medication of people recovering from their first episode of psychosis can lead to them having better recovery outcomes.
About this study
Currently, antipsychotic treatment is one of the most effective ways to treat psychotic symptoms (that is, hallucinations and delusions) and prevent relapse in young people who are experiencing psychosis. However, antipsychotics do not meaningfully improve day-to-day functioning.
Young people with psychosis are commonly at greater risk of experiencing difficulties in everyday living skills that often impact their ability to find and maintain a job, housing and personal relationships. While antipsychotic treatment is effective and often necessary for symptomatic recovery, there are several side effects associated with taking antipsychotics.
This project will investigate whether greater recovery in functioning and better mental and physical health can be achieved through gradually reducing antipsychotic medication earlier in recovery.
Gradual reduction of antipsychotic medication will also be combined with an intensive psychosocial intervention package, which will maximise recovery in these areas and aid in relapse prevention.
Enrolments have closed.
Who can take part
- Current client of Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre (EPPIC)
- Confirmed diagnosis of first episode of a psychotic disorder
- Aged 15 to 25 years (inclusive)
- Greater than 3 months of remission on positive symptoms of psychosis in the first year of antipsychotic treatment at EPPIC
- Low suicidality
What's involved
- Monitoring over 24 month period
Ethics
All research in Australia involving human participants is reviewed by an independent group called a Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC). The ethical aspects of this research study have been approved by the Royal Melbourne Hospital HREC.
This study is being carried out according to the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research (2007). This statement protects the interests of people who agree to participate in human research studies.
The Clinical Trials Centre (CTC) is a dedicated, purpose-built space where we conduct clinical trials.
The CTC is located on Level 2 South. When you arrive, if you are unsure where to go, talk to one of our friendly volunteers or the information desk staff.