Acetazolamide for Treatment Resistant Schizophrenia

STUDY BASICS

Have you been diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder? Are you between ages 18-55? You may be able to participate in a research study to test if the drug acetazolamide will improve your schizophrenia symptoms. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

Acetazolamide is a drug that affects a substance called "carbonic anhydrase" in the body. Research shows that patients with psychotic/mood disorders like schizophrenia had higher levels of this chemical in their brain after death. Currently, several drugs used to treat schizophrenia also affect carbonic anhydrase. We are interested in finding out if we add the study drug to standard treatment if it will improve symptoms of schizophrenia. Subjects will receive either the study drug (acetazolamide) or a placebo to test this. 

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Eligible participants:

• Are men and women ages 18-55 years old 
• Are diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder 
• Have been treated with the same antipsychotic medication for at least the past 30 days (and on a stable dose for at least one month)
• Still experience symptoms, even while on antipsychotic medication 
• Are not pregnant or breastfeeding 
• Are not diagnosed with the following: epilepsy, HIV infection, any immune disorder, liver problems, kidney problems, Addison's Disease, glaucoma, pulmonary conditions, abnormal electrolytes (or taking any steroids) 

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

Eligible participants will be randomly assigned (like the flip of a coin) to be started on acetazolamide (Diamox) tablets or placebo (an inactive tablet). They will take the study medication up to four times per day. Participants will download a free smartphone app called "Pill Reminder – All in One" to help them remember to take the tablets. If participants do not have a smartphone, one will be provided to them free of charge for the duration of the study. Visits may also include urine collection, blood draws, physical exams, and completing questionnaires.