Could Immune-Boosting drugs treat certain psychosis?

NCT ID NCT03194815

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This phase 2 trial tests whether a combination of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and rituximab can help people with psychosis caused by antibodies attacking the brain. 70 participants with acute psychosis and specific antibodies receive either the immunotherapy or a placebo. The goal is to see if the treatment speeds up recovery and reduces relapse, while monitoring safety.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and rituximab

What this could lead to

If successful, this could point toward a new treatment for psychosis caused by specific brain antibodies, potentially reducing symptoms and relapse.

What could go wrong

This is an early-phase trial with only 70 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Immunotherapy can cause side effects like infusion reactions or infections.

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.

autoimmune disorder of the nervous system autoimmune encephalitis psychotic disorder Psychotic Disorders

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Cambridge University Hospitals NH Foundation Trust

    Cambridge, United Kingdom

  • King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

    London, United Kingdom

  • NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde

    Glasgow, United Kingdom

  • Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust

    Nottingham, United Kingdom

  • Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

    Oxford, United Kingdom

  • Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust

    Exeter, United Kingdom

  • Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust

    Manchester, United Kingdom

  • Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

    Sheffield, United Kingdom

  • The Walton Centre NHS Foundation Trust

    Liverpool, United Kingdom

  • University College London Hospitals Nhs Foundation Trust

    London, NW1 2PG, United Kingdom