BXCL501 for Schizophrenia Agitation
(DEX Trial)
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Agitation is characterized by excessive motor or verbal activity, irritability, uncooperativeness, threatening gestures, and, in some cases, aggressive or violent behavior. While agitation may have various underlying causes, patients with schizophrenia are especially vulnerable to acute episodes of agitation, especially during exacerbation of disease, and clinicians do not always diagnose these episodes early enough. Agitation associated with psychosis is a frequent reason for emergency department visits, and unless it is recognized early and managed effectively, it can rapidly escalate to potentially dangerous behaviors, including physical violence. Educating psychiatric professionals about the timely and accurate diagnosis of agitation among patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder and developing a well-tolerated easily administered medication will contribute to the prompt and effective management of this condition and could help reduce the risk of violent behavior and other undesirable outcomes. This study is designed to identify the ideal dose range and tolerability of sublingual Dexmedetomidine in patients with schizophrenia.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What data supports the effectiveness of the drug BXCL501 for treating agitation in schizophrenia?
Is BXCL501 (sublingual dexmedetomidine) safe for treating agitation in schizophrenia?
How is the drug BXCL501 different from other treatments for schizophrenia agitation?
BXCL501, a sublingual film of dexmedetomidine, is unique because it is a non-invasive treatment that acts as a selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist, offering a rapid and effective option for managing acute agitation in schizophrenia without the need for injections and with minimal side effects.12345
Research Team
Mohini Ranganathan, MD
Principal Investigator
Yale University
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults aged 18-65 with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, who can give informed consent. It's not for those with substance dependence, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or individuals with significant medical conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive a sublingual formulation of BXCL501 (dexmedetomidine) or placebo
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride
Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Sedation for mechanically ventilated patients
- Procedural sedation
- Acute agitation associated with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder
- Sedation for mechanically ventilated patients
- Procedural sedation
- Sedation for mechanically ventilated patients
- Procedural sedation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Yale University
Lead Sponsor