AuthorisedTherapeutic exploratory (Phase II)Interventional

Long-term outcomes and safety of repeated rituximab treatment in psychotic disorders – RITS-LONG

This study, called RITS-LONG, is exploring whether a medicine named rituximab can help people with conditions like schizophrenia. The main goal is to see if participants feel better and function more easily four months after receiving two doses of rituximab. Researchers will compare these improvements to how people felt before the treatment and to results from a previous study. They also want to understand if taking rituximab again over time is safe and continues to help. This research aims to provide more information on whether rituximab can be a helpful long-term treatment option for these conditions.

At a glance

Status

Authorised

Phase

Therapeutic exploratory (Phase II)

Sponsor

Region Oerebro Laen

Enrolment target

122

Start

05 Jun 2026

Schizophrenia spectrum disorder (SSD)

What is this study about?

You might have heard about a study called RITS-LONG, which is looking for new ways to help people with conditions like schizophrenia. This study is testing a medicine called rituximab. Rituximab is sometimes used for other illnesses, but researchers want to see if it can also help with symptoms of schizophrenia and similar conditions.

The main aim of RITS-LONG is to understand how well rituximab works and if it's safe to use over a longer period. Specifically, they want to see if people feel significantly better and find it easier to manage daily life about four months after receiving two doses of the medicine. The researchers will compare these results to how participants were feeling before treatments began and also look at information from a similar study done before.

This research is important because it could lead to new treatment options for people who haven't found enough help from existing medicines. By carefully studying rituximab's effects and safety, experts hope to learn more about how to support people living with these conditions in the best possible way.

Key takeaways

This study explores a medicine called rituximab for schizophrenia-like conditions.
It aims to see if repeated doses are safe and if they help over time.
Researchers will check if people feel better and function more easily after treatment.
The study is for adults aged 18 and over.
Participation involves receiving the medicine and attending follow-up appointments.
Your decision to join is completely voluntary, and you can change your mind at any time.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old. The study is open to both men and women.

More detailed checks will happen if you express an interest. This will involve understanding your specific health situation and medical background to make sure the study is a good fit for you and that it's safe for you to take part.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been diagnosed with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder?
Are you able to attend regular appointments at the study site?
Are you willing for a close family member or friend to provide some information about you?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join the study, you would receive two doses of the study medicine, rituximab, over a period of time. After these doses, you would have several check-ups over the following months. These check-ups would involve talking to doctors about how you're feeling and how your symptoms are changing. You might also fill out questionnaires about your well-being and daily life. Some visits might include blood tests to look at how the medicine is affecting your body. The study also involves talking to a close family member or friend to get their thoughts on your progress. The full duration of your involvement in the study, including all follow-up visits, would be explained to you in detail.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in any study has potential benefits and risks. You might find the regular contact with study staff and doctors supportive, and the treatment might help your condition. However, there could be side effects from the study medicine, or it might not help your symptoms. All possible risks will be fully explained before you agree to take part. Remember, joining a study is always your choice, and you are free to withdraw at any time without giving a reason, and it won't affect your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

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Unverified
Sweden

Common questions

What is rituximab?

Rituximab is a medicine that works on the immune system, which is your body's defence system. It’s being tested to see if it can help with conditions like schizophrenia.

Will I know if I'm getting the real medicine or a dummy treatment (placebo)?

This particular study looks at people who have already had rituximab, so you would be getting the active medicine. The results are being compared to previous studies that did use a dummy treatment.

How long does treatment usually last?

You would receive two doses of rituximab. The study then follows your progress for several months after that to see how you are doing long-term.

What kind of conditions is this study for?

This study is for people with 'schizophrenia spectrum disorder', which includes schizophrenia and similar mental health conditions.

Do I have to live near the study hospital?

You would need to be able to attend the study site for your treatment doses and follow-up appointments. The study team can give you more details about locations.