Investigating how second-generation antipsychotic medications may lead to sudden cardiac arrest.
Official title: Drug Interactions Involving Second-generation Antipsychotic Agents Leading to Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10842279 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain antipsychotic medications might affect heart health in people with schizophrenia and other mental health conditions, so doctors can better understand which medication combinations are safe and help keep patients healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 6, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $739,117 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH130435-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10842279 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or other mental health conditions who are currently prescribed second-generation antipsychotic medications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not taking second-generation antipsychotic medications or who do not have a diagnosis of schizophrenia or related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the risks associated with second-generation antipsychotic medications, particularly their potential to cause sudden cardiac arrest and ventricular arrhythmias in patients with schizophrenia and other mental health conditions. By analyzing drug interactions and their effects on heart health, the study aims to provide clinicians with evidence-based guidance on safe medication combinations. Patients will be monitored for adverse drug events, and the findings will help improve treatment protocols for those at risk. The research will utilize a combination of clinical data analysis and patient reports to assess the safety of these medications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer prescribing practices for antipsychotic medications, ultimately reducing the risk of sudden cardiac arrest in vulnerable patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a concerning link between antipsychotic medications and cardiac risks, suggesting that this investigation is both timely and necessary to improve patient safety.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hennessy, Sean — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Hennessy, Sean
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.