The effect of prednisolone on symptom severity in schizophrenia: A placebo-controlled, randomized controlled trial

Immune dysregulation may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Given need for new treatment options schizophrenia, anti-inflammatory medication could a potential this illness. In double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, patients with schizoaffective disorder or psychosis NOS were randomized 1:1 to either prednisolone placebo, addition their regular antipsychotic medication. Patients diagnosed schizophrenia less than 7 years and on antipsychotics, treated tapered-off within six weeks following schedule: 40 mg/day 3 days 30 4 days, followed by decrease 5 per week during remaining weeks. Change symptom severity relative baseline was compared between arms, as measured through Positive Negative Syndrome Scale total score. total, 68 signed informed consent screened eligibility criteria, whom 42 39 completing tapering phase. Due recruitment difficulties, study terminated prematurely. Symptom decreased significantly both prednisone placebo arm (p < 0.001). The degree improvement not different arms = 0.96). No serious adverse events occurred There is no indication that has beneficial effect severity, adjunctive placebo. Adjunctive did improve