Could a common Alzheimer's drug sharpen thinking in schizophrenia?

NCT ID NCT04857983

Completed Disease control Sponsor: University of California, San Diego Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether adding memantine, a drug used for Alzheimer's, to targeted cognitive training (brain exercises) could improve thinking and daily function in people with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. 62 participants took either memantine or a placebo while completing 30 hours of cognitive training. The goal was to see if memantine enhances the benefits of the training on symptoms, thinking skills, and disability.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: memantine
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a way to improve thinking and daily function in people with schizophrenia.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase study (62 people). The results may not apply to everyone, and memantine may not provide additional benefit over cognitive training alone.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Psychotic Disorders schizoaffective disorder schizophrenia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

SCHIZOAFFECTIVE DISORDER SCHIZOPHRENIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Clinical Teaching Facility (CTF B-403 at UCSD Medical Center)

San Diego, California, 92103, United States

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