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

NCT ID NCT04857983

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.

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.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for SCHIZOPHRENIA are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

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.

Contacts and locations

Locations

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

    San Diego, California, 92103, United States