New Antipsychotic Strategies: Quetiapine and Risperidone vs. Fluphenazine in Treatment Resistant Schizophrenia

Summary

The purpose of this study is to: 1. Evaluate the efficacy and safety of the new antipsychotics, quetiapine (300-500mg/day) and risperidone (3-4mg/day) compared to each other and to fluphenazine (10-15mg/day), a high potency typical antipsychotic in patients who meet the DSM IV criteria for schizophrenia. 2. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of quetiapine (1200mg/day) in patients who have not responded to conventional and newer antipsychotics. 3. To evaluate the effectiveness of quetiapine (300-500mg/day), and risperidone (3-5mg/day) compared to each other and fluphenazine (10-15mg/day) in the treatment of hostility and aggression in treatment-resistant schizophrenic patients. 4. To evaluate the effectiveness of quetiapine (300-500mg/day) and risperidone (3-5mg/day) compared to each other and fluphenazine (10-15mg/day) on rates of discharge, quality of life, and independent living skills. 5. To assess prolactin levels and to evaluate any relationship with sexual dysfunction and menstrual irregularities. 6. To evaluate the possible differential impact of treatment conditions on cognitive functioning including measures of attention, motor speed, problem solving, verbal and visual memory, and verbal processing speed. 7. To measure changes in weight and health consequences associated with weight changes.

Timeline

Start

2003-11

Primary completion

2004-11

Completion

2004-11

Drugs

Indications