RADAR Trial
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Research into Antipsychotic Discontinuation and Reduction (RADAR): A Randomised Controlled Trial
IRAS ID
193921
Contact name
Joanna Moncrieff
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
UCL
Eudract number
2016-000709-36
Duration of Study in the UK
4 years, 2 months, days
Research summary
The RADAR trial is a randomised controlled trial that will compare a gradual strategy of antipsychotic reduction and possible discontinuation with maintenance (continuous) treatment in people with schizophrenia or who have recurrent psychotic episodes. In the reduction group, antipsychotics will be gradually reduced according to a pre-devised, individualised protocol/schedule, which will take into account starting dose and number of antipsychotics. Antipsychotics will be discontinued in some cases where reduction progresses well. The reduction schedule will be flexible and can be adjusted according to participant progress. Treating clinicians will also be given guidance on monitoring and treating symptoms and early relapse.
Recruitment will occur through the Community Recovery Teams, Assertive Outreach teams, Early Intervention in Psychosis teams, Older Adults teams and Learning Disability teams within participating Trusts. Participants will be individually randomised to the two treatment strategies, which will be administered by treating clinicians. They will be followed up for two years. There will be an internal pilot trial to assess recruitment, retention and intervention adherence.
The primary outcome is social functioning, and secondary outcomes include relapse, symptoms, side effects and employment. There will be an additional qualitative interview study of the experience of antipsychotic reduction conducted with participants in the antipsychotic reduction group after they have completed their final follow-up. There will also be a quantitative and qualitative evaluation of trial processes and methods.
REC name
London - Brent Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/1507
Date of REC Opinion
27 Oct 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion