Lumateperone for Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to evaluate the safety and tolerance of lumateperone, a potential medication for young people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or autism spectrum disorder. Researchers will assess how well patients handle this treatment over a 26-week period. The study is suitable for children and teens diagnosed with one of these conditions who are currently receiving outpatient treatment. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants a chance to contribute to the potential availability of a new treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are taking medication for ADHD, you must have been on a stable treatment for 30 days before the study and continue it throughout the study.
Is there any evidence suggesting that lumateperone is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that lumateperone has been tested in over 2,600 adults with conditions like bipolar depression and schizophrenia. These studies found lumateperone to be generally safe for these patients. Importantly, no major safety issues emerged, and it did not significantly cause extra movements, known as extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS).
For those concerned about side effects, the results are reassuring. Lumateperone usually has a better safety profile compared to many other treatments for similar conditions, meaning patients generally tolerate it well.
Although this new study focuses on younger patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or autism spectrum disorder, previous research in adults provides a strong foundation. Lumateperone is already approved by the FDA for certain conditions, adding another layer of confidence in its safety.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for schizophrenia?
Unlike the standard antipsychotic treatments for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, such as risperidone or olanzapine, lumateperone stands out due to its novel mechanism of action. Most treatments work primarily by blocking dopamine receptors, but lumateperone uniquely targets serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate pathways, offering a more balanced approach. This multi-target action not only promises to be effective but also may reduce the risk of common side effects like weight gain and movement disorders. Researchers are excited about lumateperone because it could offer a safer, more comprehensive treatment option for individuals with these conditions.
What evidence suggests that lumateperone might be an effective treatment for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder?
Research shows that lumateperone, which participants in this trial will receive, helps treat bipolar depression by significantly improving depressive symptoms in people with bipolar I and II disorder. However, it is less effective in easing symptoms of schizophrenia. Studies have found that lumateperone can lift mood and lessen depression in those with bipolar disorder. There is less evidence of its effectiveness for schizophrenia, suggesting it may work better for mood-related symptoms in bipolar disorder.678910
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children and teenagers with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Specific details about who can join are not provided, but typically participants must meet certain health standards and have a diagnosis of the conditions being studied.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Open-label Treatment
Participants receive open-label lumateperone once daily
Safety Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety approximately 2 weeks after the last dose of open-label lumateperone
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Lumateperone
Lumateperone is already approved in United States for the following indications:
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar I or II disorder (bipolar depression)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Intra-Cellular Therapies, Inc.
Lead Sponsor