Randomized clinical trial of intensive computer-based cognitive remediation in first-episode schizophrenia
Description
This study is being conducted by Sophia Vinogradov M.D., Cameron Carter, M.D. and their research teams at UCSF and UCD. It is designed to aid our understanding of whether or not specialized computer training helps young people with schizophrenia lessen their symptoms and improve their thinking. This study is being funded by the Stanley Medical Research Institute.
Study Design
Participants should be available to spend 60 minutes per day, five days per week, for eight consecutive weeks either at a home computer with Internet access or at a computer at UCSF or UCD.
Participants should be available for 3 appointments (with interviews and paper-and-pencil tests) and two quick blood tests at the start of the study, and two appointments plus a quick blood test at the end of the study. Participants will also be asked to return for two appointments and a blood test 6 months after they complete the study. You will be offered an opportunity to complete an additional 8 weeks of computer training with different modules, and you may also be able to return to complete a second set of computer exercises after your 6-month assessments.
End Date
5/20/2009Participant Requirements
A confidential phone screen will be conducted to determine initial eligibility.
(If you are under 18 years of age, please have your parents call).
You are eligible to participate if:
- You have a clinical diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizophreniform disorder or schizoaffective disorder.
- Your first episode of schizophrenia symptoms began within the last 3 years.
- You are in good general medical health.
- You are doing well and have been on the same medication for at least four weeks.
- You are between the ages of 16 and 30.
- You live in or around the San Francisco Bay Area OR Sacramento.
- You are fluent and proficient in the English language.
If you are interested in participating with the UC Davis team, please contact Cameron Carter, MD UCD Principal Investigator at 916-734-0512.
Payment
Participants will be paid $60 for the three appointments at the start of the study, $5/day for each day at the computer, a $20 bonus for each two weeks at the computer and $40 for the two appointments at the end of the 8 or 16 weeks. You will receive a $30 bonus for completing all 8 and/or 16 weeks on the computer and the follow-up assessments, and $40 for coming in 6 months after the study to do the final 2 appointments. If you return to complete the second set of computer training exercises, you will be paid the same amounts.