Local biz tackles schizophrenia
Rob Gibson - Jan 05, 2023 - Get Involved

Photo: Pixabay

If you or someone you know is living with schizophrenia, new medicine could help improve cognitive impairment for those living with the affliction.

The Mayo Clinic describes schizophrenia as a serious mental disorder in which people interpret reality abnormally. The most common characteristics are disruptions in thought processes, perceptions, emotional responsiveness and social interactions.

Okanagan Clinical Trials is looking for people who are living with schizophrenia to take part in an ongoing medication research study in Kelowna. The study is looking at the safety and effectiveness of an investigational medication designed to improve cognitive impairment for individuals living with schizophrenia.

“Currently, schizophrenia and the medications to manage it impair the cognition of patients, resulting in negative impacts on function and quality of life,” principal investigator Dr. Eugene Okorie said in a press release. “This trial offers an opportunity to explore the effectiveness and tolerability of a medication that could help with the cognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia and medications used to manage it.”

Okanagan Clinical Trials president Dr. Kim Christie said: “Cognitive impairment is a common symptom in people with schizophrenia, and treatments are highly needed. OCT is excited to participate in this study to determine if this medication is effective.”

The study needs men and women between the ages of 19 and 50 for treatment, which will not impact provincial medical coverage, and all study-related costs will be paid for by the sponsor. Participants are free to leave the study at any time.


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