Using clozapine to reduce violence in people with schizophrenia

2/7 Clozapine for the Prevention of Violence in Schizophrenia: a Randomized Clinical Trial

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10873099

This study is looking at whether clozapine, a medication for schizophrenia, can help reduce violent behavior in people who are at high risk for violence, and it involves participants receiving either clozapine or regular treatment for six months to see which works better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10873099 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of clozapine, an antipsychotic medication, in reducing the risk of violent behavior among individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who are at high risk for violence. The study will involve a randomized clinical trial across seven sites, where participants will receive either clozapine or standard treatment for a duration of 24 weeks. By comparing the outcomes of these two groups, the research aims to provide robust evidence on the impact of clozapine on violent acts in community settings. This trial addresses a significant gap in previous studies, which often lacked randomization or focused on smaller, less representative populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia who exhibit a high risk of violent behavior.

Not a fit: Patients with schizophrenia who are not at risk for violence or those who do not meet the study's inclusion criteria may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for individuals with schizophrenia, potentially reducing violence and enhancing public safety.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have suggested that clozapine may be more effective than other antipsychotics in reducing aggression, but this trial aims to provide more definitive evidence through a rigorous randomized approach.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.