We are conducting a randomized, 24-week, double-blind study, comparing fluoxetine with aripiprazole in 48 patients with attenuated positive symptoms at a level of at least moderate severity.

To Compare Fluoxetine and Aripiprazole on All-cause Discontinuation/Need to Add Another Psychiatric Medication, Symptomatic Improvement, and Adverse Effects

Inclusion Criteria:

• consent obtained from patients and their parents (assent for patients under 18);
• age 12-25 years (inclusive);
• English-speaking;
• at least one positive (Scale A) SOPS score of 3-5, i.e., moderate, moderately severe or severe.

Exclusion Criteria:

• lifetime diagnosis of an Axis I psychotic disorder, including: schizophreniform disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, or major depression with psychotic features;
• current psychosis (any positive symptom SOPS score of 6, i.e., extreme);
• current diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder, single episode or recurrent, severe without psychotic features;
• current stimulant treatment;
• history of neurological, neuroendocrine or other medical condition known to affect the brain;
• any significant medical condition that contra-indicates treatment with either aripiprazole or fluoxetine;
• past or current substance dependence; sunstance abuse within the last 4 weeks;
• IQ < 70.

6 months