Patient Satisfaction with KarXT Treatment for Schizophrenia: A Qualitative Interview-Based Study

KarXT is a novel treatment that does not directly block dopamine D2 receptors. A new drug application for KarXT was recently accepted by the FDA to treat schizophrenia in adults. An important question for clinicians is whether KarXT’s unique pharmacodynamic profile prompts a different experience for patients previously treated with dopamine receptor antagonists. A qualitative interview study examined participants’ experiences and satisfaction with KarXT.
This optional longitudinal substudy on subjective effects of KarXT was included in a long-term safety and efficacy study (NCT04820309) of outpatients. Participants completed up to 2 semi-structured interviews ~6 and 26 weeks after starting KarXT. External researchers interviewed participants using study-specific interview guides with 10-point self-reported satisfaction ratings for KarXT and for previous antipsychotics, probing for satisfaction rationale.
Seventy participants (mean age 47.9 years, 75.7% male) completed an initial interview. 47 completed a follow-up. Participants reported the same relative satisfaction with KarXT during both interviews (mean = 8.1 of 10) and higher satisfaction with KarXT than their previous antipsychotic (means = 6.1 and 5.7, respectively). Participants often attributed satisfaction to perceived improvement in symptoms, absence of side effects, or improved quality of life. At follow-up, 87.2% of participants indicated they would recommend KarXT to a family member/friend and 76.6% would continue KarXT after the trial if able to.
Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with KarXT 6 weeks after starting treatment that were sustained up to 6 months of treatment.