In this proposed study, we aim to investigate the effects of Bexarotene (Targretin; LGD1069;
4-[1-{5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-3,5,5,8,8-pentamethyl-2-naphthalenyl} ethenyl] benzoic acid) on
severity of psychopathology, cognitive impairment, and quality of life in schizophrenia
patients in an open label trial. The rationale behind add-on oral bexarotene to ongoing
antipsychotic treatment in schizophrenia patients is based on both the retinoid dysregulation
hypothesis (Goodman, 1995) and the growth factors deficiency and synaptic destabilization
hypothesis (Moises et al, 2002) of schizophrenia. In this clinical trial, a novel regimen of
low dose bexarotene (Targretin, 75 mg/day) will be added for 6 weeks to the standard
treatment of 15 schizophrenia patients on stable antipsychotic treatment. Participants will
be assessed at baseline and after 2, 4 and 6 weeks of treatment. A battery of research
instruments will be used for assessment of efficacy and safety (psychopathology, and side
effects). In addition, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, liver and thyroid function tests
and a blood cell count will be monitored at baseline and during therapy.