Improving cognition through telehealth exercise and cognitive training for first-episode schizophrenia
Improving Cognition Through Telehealth Aerobic Exercise and Cognitive Training After a First Schizophrenia Episode
This study is testing whether combining online exercise and brain training can help people who are experiencing their first episode of schizophrenia improve their thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of California, Los Angeles Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT05890183 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to enhance cognitive function in individuals experiencing their first episode of schizophrenia by combining telehealth-delivered aerobic exercise with cognitive training. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an aerobic exercise and strength training group or a Healthy Living Group, both receiving cognitive training over a 12-month period. The study will measure improvements in cognition, engagement in exercise sessions, and levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to assess the effectiveness of the interventions. The use of videoconferencing for delivery aims to demonstrate the feasibility of this approach outside of traditional academic settings.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 to 45 who have experienced their first episode of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or schizophreniform disorder within the past three years.
Not a fit: Patients with a premorbid IQ less than 70, significant neurological disorders, or severe substance use disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve cognitive deficits and overall functioning in patients with first-episode schizophrenia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in improving cognitive deficits in schizophrenia through combined cognitive training and aerobic exercise, indicating potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. a first episode of a psychotic illness that began within the past three years; 2. a diagnosis by DSM-5 of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or schizophreniform disorder; 3. age 18 to 45 years of age; 4. sufficient acculturation and fluency in the English language to avoid invalidating research measures; and 5. residence likely to be within commuting distance of the UCLA Aftercare Research Program. Exclusion Criteria: 1. premorbid IQ less than 70; 2. evidence of a known neurological disorder (e.g., epilepsy) or significant head injury; 3. evidence of moderate or severe substance use disorder within the six months prior to the first episode or evidence of a substance-induced psychosis.
Where this trial is running
Los Angeles, California
- UCLA Aftercare Research Program — Los Angeles, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Keith H Nuechterlein, PhD — University of California, Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Rebecca Zornitsky, MSc
- Email: RZornitsky@mednet.ucla.edu
- Phone: (424) 225-1779
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.