Randomised controlled trial of gradual antipsychotic reduction and discontinuation in people with schizophrenia and related disorders: the RADAR trial (Research into Antipsychotic Discontinuation and Reduction).

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Antipsychotic medication is effective in reducing acute symptoms of psychosis, but it has a range of potentially serious and debilitating adverse effects and is often disliked by patients. It is therefore essential it is only used when benefits outweigh harms. Although multiple trials conducted with people with schizophrenia indicate an increased risk of relapse in the short-term following abrupt antipsychotic discontinuation, there is little evidence about the long-term outcome of a gradual process of reduction and discontinuation on social functioning, relapse and other outcomes.

Methods and analysis

This is a multicentre, randomised controlled trial involving people with schizophrenia and related disorders who have had more than one episode. Participants are

SUBMITTER: Moncrieff J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6887002 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature