Medication for agitation in schizophrenia

Safety and Efficacy of BXCL501, a Sublingual Film Delivery of Dexmedetomidine for the Treatment of Acute Agitation in Schizophrenia

Phase 2 Interventional Yale University · NCT03708315

This study is testing a new medication to see if it can help people with schizophrenia manage their agitation better and improve their overall care.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorYale University Academic / other
Locations1 site (New Haven, Connecticut)
Trial IDNCT03708315 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the use of Dexmedetomidine Hydrochloride to manage agitation in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. The study aims to educate psychiatric professionals on the timely diagnosis of agitation and to develop a medication that is well-tolerated and easy to administer. By addressing agitation effectively, the trial seeks to reduce the risk of violent behavior and improve overall patient management during acute episodes. Participants will be monitored for their response to the medication compared to a placebo.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 65 who have been diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder.

Not a fit: Patients with significant medical conditions, substance dependence, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve the management of agitation in patients with schizophrenia, leading to better outcomes and reduced emergency interventions.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored similar approaches to managing agitation in psychiatric conditions, indicating potential for success in this area.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Ability to give informed consent.
2. Male or female between 18 and 65 years of age, inclusive
3. According to DSM-V meet criteria for Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective disorder.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Current significant medical condition or other comorbidities
2. Current substance dependence
3. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding

Where this trial is running

New Haven, Connecticut

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions SchizophreniaSchizoaffective Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.