Salsalate for Insulin Resistance in Schizophrenia

Being obese is a common problem for people with schizophrenia. People with schizophrenia
are more likely to be overweight compared to the general population. Being overweight is a
major risk factor for developing type II diabetes. Approximately 15% of people with
schizophrenia have type II diabetes. People with type II diabetes have problems with their
body's insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the body to control blood sugar level.
Obesity and type II diabetes are strong risk factors for heart disease. In type II diabetes
the body does not respond to insulin correctly. Obesity, type II diabetes, and insulin
resistance are all common states of inflammation. Inflammation is a reaction by the body to
irritation, injury, or infection.

Salicylates are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Aspirin is an example of a
salicylate. These drugs work by decreasing the level of inflammation in the body.
Salicylates have been shown to decrease inflammation and improve the body's response to
insulin. Improving the body's response to insulin and decreasing inflammation could
possibly reduce the risk of developing type II diabetes. Salicylates have been known for
years to be effective for the treatment of diabetes. Salicylates increase the body's
response to insulin causing blood sugar levels to decrease. Many salicylate drugs have side
effects including stomach irritation and increased risk of bleeding. The drug for this
study is called salsalate and is different from other salicylates. Salsalate has a lower
bleeding risk than aspirin. Salsalate has been used to treat arthritis and has been shown
to be safe.

There have been no studies using salsalate in people with schizophrenia. The purpose of
this study is to gain experience in the use of salsalate in people with schizophrenia. The
study would be a pilot study to obtain preliminary data. The study would be a 6-week study
where everyone in the study would receive the drug salsalate. The participants in the study
will have tests of baseline symptoms of schizophrenia, a physical exam, EKG (to check heart
function), and a side effect checklist for possible side effects from salsalate. The study
will also have some blood drawn to measure blood sugar levels, insulin levels, and
inflammatory markers.