Could Immune-Boosting drugs treat certain psychosis?

NCT ID NCT03194815

Ongoing Disease control Sponsor: University of Cambridge Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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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.

AUTOIMMUNE ENCEPHALITIS PSYCHOSIS

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

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