Maintenance ElectroConvulsive Therapy in Clozapine RESISTant Schizophrenia - the MECT-RESIST Trial

Launched by CENTRAL INSTITUTE OF MENTAL HEALTH, MANNHEIM · Jun 7, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The MECT-RESIST Trial is a clinical study looking at a treatment called maintenance electroconvulsive therapy (mECT) for patients with schizophrenia who have not responded well to standard medications, including clozapine. Schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition that can be very challenging to treat, and about 15-30% of people do not get better with the usual medications. This trial aims to see if continuing ECT after initial treatment can help prevent relapses and keep patients feeling better for longer. If successful, this could change the way treatment is approached for those who struggle with treatment-resistant schizophrenia.

To participate in this trial, individuals must have a diagnosis of schizophrenia that fits specific criteria, including a history of not responding to clozapine. Participants should be between 65 and 74 years old and able to read and write in German. This study is currently recruiting, and those who join can expect to receive mECT while being closely monitored for their response and any potential side effects. Overall, the findings from this trial could significantly improve care for people with treatment-resistant schizophrenia.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Current schizophrenia according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), BPRS total score \> 45 and history of clozapine resistant schizophrenia (CRS), which will include treatment-resistant schizophrenia with clozapine intolerance or absolute contraindications for clozapine;
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Diagnosis of DSM-5 major neurocognitive disorder ("dementia"), current severe substance-use disorder, affective disorders with psychotic symptoms or any personality disorder;
• • 2. Inability to read/write German or inability to provide written informed consent;
• • 3. Pregnancy or breast-feeding;
• • 4. General medical condition contraindicating ECT.