World's first anti-psychotic patch trialled in Surrey

An innovative new patch application to treat people with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder is being trialled by a research and development team at the Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

In collaboration with clinical research organisation Richmond Pharmacology, the Trust is optimistic that a non-invasive method of treatment, as an alternative to injections or tablets, might be achieved thanks to a patch that releases the medication ‘asenapine’ through the skin and into the blood stream.

In addition to removing the need for injections and overcoming the pitfall of forgetting to take tablets, researchers believe that a gradual absorption of the medication over a 24-hour period will also reduce any unwanted side effects.

So far the Trust reports that participants much prefer using the patch, with one commenting: “The trial has been excellent. I think the patch is better because I have a problem with remembering to take my tablets. I have also experienced fewer side effects. With tablets when you take them you get those side effects straight away.”

If successful the new method could have an international impact on the lives of those with schizophrenia, but the Trust aims to draw more adults into the trial in order to complete its research by December.

Consultant psychiatrist and medical lead for research and development, Ramin Nilforooshan said: “As an NHS Trust we are delighted to be a part of such a high profile trial which could improve the way we provide treatment to not only the people who use our services but people diagnosed with schizophrenia nationally and internationally.”