Brain scans and genes may guide better schizophrenia drug choices

NCT ID NCT06969755

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study is for people aged 18-35 experiencing their first episode of psychosis. Researchers will use genetic tests and MRI brain scans to see if certain markers can predict which antipsychotic drug (aripiprazole, risperidone, or clozapine) will work best. The goal is to improve symptom relief and reduce side effects like weight gain. Participants will be followed for 12 weeks to compare how well each drug works based on their individual biology.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

aripiprazole, risperidone, and clozapine (antipsychotic drugs)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could help doctors choose the right medication for early schizophrenia based on a patient's genetics and brain scans, leading to better symptom control and fewer side effects.

What could go wrong

This is a Phase 4 study with 180 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The genetic and brain scan markers are still experimental, and the drugs have known risks like weight gain and blood cell problems.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

schizoaffective disorder schizophrenia schizophreniform disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Centre for Addiction and Mental Health

    RECRUITING

    Toronto, Canada

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Feinstein Institute for Medical Research

    RECRUITING

    Glen Oaks, New York, 11004, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • McLean

    RECRUITING

    Belmont, Massachusetts, 02478, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • The University of Alabama at Birmingham

    RECRUITING

    Birmingham, Alabama, 35294, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • University of California San Diego

    RECRUITING

    La Jolla, California, 92093, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••