MARS Research Study - Individuals with Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder (SSD)

STUDY BASICS

Have you been diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD)? Anticholinergic Burden (ACB) is the effect of taking multiple medications that block actions in the nervous system. You may be eligible for a research study to examine the impact of ACB reduction and its effects on cognition, functional outcomes, and quality of life.

STUDY PURPOSE

Anticholinergic Burden (ACB) is the effect of taking multiple medications that block actions in the nervous system.  High ACB can be detrimental to an individual’s quality of life.  This is a study of ACB reduction via deprescription in individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. This study examines the impact of ACB reduction and its effects on cognition, functional outcomes, and quality of life.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

• Aged 40-70 years old
• Diagnosed with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD)
• Receiving clinical care for SSD

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

Participants will be randomized to one of two groups:

1. ACB reduction group
2. No ACB reduction group

In-person study appointments at baseline, 3-months, and 6-months at the University of Pittsburgh.

• Interviews
• Questionnaires
• Blood draws
• MR Imaging Scans