Mersey Care has launched a study to examine whether Quetiapine, a commonly prescribed medication for schizophrenia and major depressive disorder, can also help treat borderline personality disorder (BPD).
Working with the University of Liverpool, Liverpool Clinical Trials Centre (LCTC) and other partners, the new QUEST study, funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), aims to provide clearer evidence on potential treatments for BPD.
Surveys suggest around two percent of adults in England are likely to have BPD and those living with it can experience high levels of emotional distress and rapid changes in mood, which can impact their quality of life. Psychological therapies can be effective to some, but many people are unable to access or use them.
Researchers involved in the QUEST study aim to address this gap and will examine whether Quetiapine improves symptoms of BPD and if the results are promising, it could provide vital evidence to support its use.
Ali Bryant, Mental Health Research for Innovation Centre (M-RIC) Service User and Carer Representative, said: “Patient benefit is key to the QUEST clinical trial, which is guided by the reality and distress of people experiencing BPD.
“The aim is to discover more about a treatment medication called Quetiapine which may improve symptoms and quality of life for people living with BPD. What the trial will do is gather important evidence and data to understand more about using Quetiapine if you have BPD.
Participants in the study will be randomly allocated to receive either Quetiapine or a placebo for 12 months alongside their usual treatment. The results will help clinical teams make more informed decisions about the best treatment for patients with BPD.
Dr Inti Qurashi, Mersey Care psychiatrist and QUEST Chief Investigator, explained: “Clinicians are often unsure how best to help people with BPD when psychological therapies are not available and when someone is experiencing significant distress. There is some evidence to suggest that quetiapine may help, but this needs further study.
“In the QUEST trial, we will test whether Quetiapine improves the mental health and quality of life of people living with BPD. Our findings could help shape and improve future treatment and outcomes for people affected by the condition.”
Researchers are now inviting adults who are in contact with mental health services to take part in the trial. To learn more about QUEST, speak to your clinical team or visit the study website.