Promoting Activity and Cognitive Enrichment in Schizophrenia (PACES)

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH · Oct 28, 2019

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The PACES trial is studying two new therapy approaches to help people with schizophrenia who experience long-lasting negative symptoms, such as lack of motivation or difficulty enjoying things. The goal is to see if Cognitive Enhancement Therapy and Enriched Supportive Therapy can improve these symptoms. The trial is currently looking for participants aged 18 to 60 who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and have had these negative symptoms for at least three months. Participants should also be stable on their antipsychotic medication and have mild or no movement-related side effects.

If you or someone you know qualifies and decides to participate, you'll be part of a supportive environment aimed at enhancing cognitive and social skills over a set evaluation period. It's important to note that certain medical conditions or behaviors, such as severe cognitive impairment or substance use disorders, may exclude someone from participating. This study aims to find effective ways to improve the quality of life for individuals with schizophrenia, and your involvement could contribute to important advancements in treatment.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• Inclusion criteria will be evaluated longitudinally in a 4-week evaluation period. Patients will be included if they are outpatients and:
• • 1. are between 18-60 years of age;
• • 2. have a diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder confirmed by the SCID;
• • 3. have a clinical history of persistent negative symptoms lasting at least 3 months as identified from the medical record;
• • 4. have observed persistent negative symptoms at the beginning and end of the 4-week evaluation period;
• • 5. have been stabilized on antipsychotic medication at the beginning and end of the 4-week evaluation period;
• • 6. have stabilized depressive symptoms at the beginning and end of the 4-week evaluation period;
• • 7. have mild or absent extrapyramidal symptoms at the beginning and end of the 4-week evaluation period;
• • 8. have had changes to their primary antipsychotic medication within the previous 3 months;
• • 9. have current IQ \> 80; and
• • 10. are able to read (sixth grade level or higher) and speak fluent English. -
• Exclusion Criteria:
• Exclusion criteria are intended to avoid likely treatment confounders and contraindications and include:
• • 1. the presence of organic brain syndrome;
• • 2. comorbid medical disorders producing cognitive impairment (e.g., mild brain injury, previous concussions with loss of consciousness);
• • 3. persistent suicidal or homicidal behavior;
• • 4. significant clinician-estimated medication non-adherence; and
• • 5. SCID-verified substance use disorder.