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Azargoonjahromi A. Current Findings and Potential Mechanisms of KarXT (Xanomeline-Trospium) in Schizophrenia Treatment. Clin Drug Investig 2024:10.1007/s40261-024-01377-9. [PMID: 38904739 DOI: 10.1007/s40261-024-01377-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Standard schizophrenia treatment involves antipsychotic medications that target D2 dopamine receptors. However, these drugs have limitations in addressing all symptoms and can lead to adverse effects such as motor impairments, metabolic effects, sedation, sexual dysfunction, cognitive impairment, and tardive dyskinesia. Recently, KarXT has emerged as a novel drug for schizophrenia. KarXT combines xanomeline, a muscarinic receptor M1 and M4 agonist, with trospium, a nonselective antimuscarinic agent. Of note, xanomeline can readily cross blood-brain barrier (BBB) and, thus, enter into the brain, thereby stimulating muscarinic receptors (M1 and M4). By doing so, xanomeline has been shown to target negative symptoms and potentially improve positive symptoms. Trospium, on the other hand, is not able to cross BBB, thereby not affecting M1 and M4 receptors; instead, it acts as an antimuscarinic agent and, hence, diminishes peripheral activity of muscarinic receptors to minimize side effects probably stemming from xanomeline in other organs. Accordingly, ongoing clinical trials investigating KarXT's efficacy in schizophrenia have demonstrated positive outcomes, including significant improvements in the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) total score and cognitive function compared with placebo. These findings emphasize the potential of KarXT as a promising treatment for schizophrenia, providing symptom relief while minimizing side effects associated with xanomeline monotherapy. Despite such promising evidence, further research is needed to confirm the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of KarXT in managing schizophrenia. This review article explores the current findings and potential mechanisms of KarXT in the treatment of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Azargoonjahromi
- Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Janbazan Blv, 14th Alley, Jahrom, Shiraz, 7417773539, Fars, Iran.
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2
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Truong TTT, Liu ZSJ, Panizzutti B, Kim JH, Dean OM, Berk M, Walder K. Network-based drug repurposing for schizophrenia. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024; 49:983-992. [PMID: 38321095 PMCID: PMC11039639 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01805-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Despite recent progress, the challenges in drug discovery for schizophrenia persist. However, computational drug repurposing has gained popularity as it leverages the wealth of expanding biomedical databases. Network analyses provide a comprehensive understanding of transcription factor (TF) regulatory effects through gene regulatory networks, which capture the interactions between TFs and target genes by integrating various lines of evidence. Using the PANDA algorithm, we examined the topological variances in TF-gene regulatory networks between individuals with schizophrenia and healthy controls. This algorithm incorporates binding motifs, protein interactions, and gene co-expression data. To identify these differences, we subtracted the edge weights of the healthy control network from those of the schizophrenia network. The resulting differential network was then analysed using the CLUEreg tool in the GRAND database. This tool employs differential network signatures to identify drugs that potentially target the gene signature associated with the disease. Our analysis utilised a large RNA-seq dataset comprising 532 post-mortem brain samples from the CommonMind project. We constructed co-expression gene regulatory networks for both schizophrenia cases and healthy control subjects, incorporating 15,831 genes and 413 overlapping TFs. Through drug repurposing, we identified 18 promising candidates for repurposing as potential treatments for schizophrenia. The analysis of TF-gene regulatory networks revealed that the TFs in schizophrenia predominantly regulate pathways associated with energy metabolism, immune response, cell adhesion, and thyroid hormone signalling. These pathways represent significant targets for therapeutic intervention. The identified drug repurposing candidates likely act through TF-targeted pathways. These promising candidates, particularly those with preclinical evidence such as rimonabant and kaempferol, warrant further investigation into their potential mechanisms of action and efficacy in alleviating the symptoms of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trang T T Truong
- Deakin University, IMPACT, The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
| | - Zoe S J Liu
- Deakin University, IMPACT, The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
| | - Bruna Panizzutti
- Deakin University, IMPACT, The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
| | - Jee Hyun Kim
- Deakin University, IMPACT, The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Australia
| | - Olivia M Dean
- Deakin University, IMPACT, The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Australia
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT, The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Centre for Youth Mental Health, The Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health and the Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3010, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Deakin University, IMPACT, The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia.
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Afzal T, Hipolito JL, Jin L. A Systematic Review of Misdiagnosis of Pediatric Bipolar Disorder: Assessments and Recommendations. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2024; 52:659-670. [PMID: 38109022 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-023-01163-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Bipolar disorders (BP) are a class of psychiatric disorders with a complex symptom presentation. This systematic review aims to summarize literature pertaining to the misdiagnosis of pediatric BP using the DSM-IV and DSM-5 criteria, while emphasizing the negative impact that untreated BP has on life outcomes. This paper also attempts to outline and summarize available recommendations which may aid in improving diagnostic accuracy of pediatric BP. Scholars Portal Journals, PsychINFO, and MEDLINE databases were used to search articles until March 21, 2023. Inclusion criteria limited this review to articles published between 1995 and 2022 using a pediatric (age < 18) sample. Exclusion criteria omitted articles containing samples with self-reported diagnoses. A total of 15 articles are included in this review; study results were synthesized using a narrative summary. Youth with BP are most frequently misdiagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia, and major depressive disorder (MDD). Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate intervention plans and a delay in proper treatment, negatively impacting a child's quality of life by contributing to social, occupational, and economic adversity. Finally, this review addresses the need for future quantitative research on the implications of false negative diagnoses of pediatric BP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tabeer Afzal
- Psychology Department, Brock University, Plaza Building (PLZ), 1812 Sir Isaac Brock Way, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada.
| | - Justin Louis Hipolito
- School of Interdisciplinary Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Laura Jin
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8S 4L8, Canada
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4
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Peng A, Chai J, Wu H, Bai B, Yang H, He W, Zhao Y. New Therapeutic Targets and Drugs for Schizophrenia Beyond Dopamine D2 Receptor Antagonists. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2024; 20:607-620. [PMID: 38525480 PMCID: PMC10961082 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s455279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a disease with a complex pathological mechanism that is influenced by multiple genes. The study of its pathogenesis is dominated by the dopamine hypothesis, as well as other hypotheses such as the 5-hydroxytryptamine hypothesis, glutamate hypothesis, immune-inflammatory hypothesis, gene expression abnormality hypothesis, and neurodevelopmental abnormality hypothesis. The first generation of antipsychotics was developed based on dopaminergic receptor antagonism, which blocks dopamine D2 receptors in the brain to exert antipsychotic effects. The second generation of antipsychotics acts by dual blockade of 5-hydroxytryptamine and dopamine receptors. From the third generation of antipsychotics onwards, the therapeutic targets for antipsychotic schizophrenia expanded beyond D2 receptor blockade to explore D2 receptor partial agonism and the antipsychotic effects of new targets such as D3, 5-HT1A, 5-HT7, and mGlu2/3 receptors. The main advantages of the second and third generation antipsychotics over first-generation antipsychotics are the reduction of side effects and the improvement of negative symptoms, and even though third-generation antipsychotics do not directly block D2 receptors, the modulation of the dopamine transmitter system is still an important part of their antipsychotic process. According to recent research, several receptors, including 5-hydroxytryptamine, glutamate, γ-aminobutyric acid, acetylcholine receptors and norepinephrine, play a role in the development of schizophrenia. Therefore, the focus of developing new antipsychotic drugs has shifted towards agonism or inhibition of these receptors. Specifically, the development of NMDARs stimulants, GABA receptor agonists, mGlu receptor modulators, cholinergic receptor modulators, 5-HT2C receptor agonists and alpha-2 receptor modulators has become the main direction. Animal experiments have confirmed the antipsychotic effects of these drugs, but their pharmacokinetics and clinical applicability still require further exploration. Research on alternative targets for antipsychotic drugs, beyond the dopamine D2 receptor, has expanded the potential treatment options for schizophrenia and gives an important way to address the challenge of refractory schizophrenia. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the research on therapeutic targets and medications for schizophrenia, offering valuable insights for both treatment and further research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aineng Peng
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianbo Chai
- Heilongjiang Mental Hospital, Harbin, 150036, People’s Republic of China
| | - Haiyuan Wu
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bing Bai
- Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 311100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huihui Yang
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weizhi He
- Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yonghou Zhao
- Heilongjiang Mental Hospital, Harbin, 150036, People’s Republic of China
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Kimchi EY, Burgos-Robles A, Matthews GA, Chakoma T, Patarino M, Weddington JC, Siciliano C, Yang W, Foutch S, Simons R, Fong MF, Jing M, Li Y, Polley DB, Tye KM. Reward contingency gates selective cholinergic suppression of amygdala neurons. eLife 2024; 12:RP89093. [PMID: 38376907 PMCID: PMC10942609 DOI: 10.7554/elife.89093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Basal forebrain cholinergic neurons modulate how organisms process and respond to environmental stimuli through impacts on arousal, attention, and memory. It is unknown, however, whether basal forebrain cholinergic neurons are directly involved in conditioned behavior, independent of secondary roles in the processing of external stimuli. Using fluorescent imaging, we found that cholinergic neurons are active during behavioral responding for a reward - even prior to reward delivery and in the absence of discrete stimuli. Photostimulation of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons, or their terminals in the basolateral amygdala (BLA), selectively promoted conditioned responding (licking), but not unconditioned behavior nor innate motor outputs. In vivo electrophysiological recordings during cholinergic photostimulation revealed reward-contingency-dependent suppression of BLA neural activity, but not prefrontal cortex. Finally, ex vivo experiments demonstrated that photostimulation of cholinergic terminals suppressed BLA projection neuron activity via monosynaptic muscarinic receptor signaling, while also facilitating firing in BLA GABAergic interneurons. Taken together, we show that the neural and behavioral effects of basal forebrain cholinergic activation are modulated by reward contingency in a target-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eyal Y Kimchi
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern UniversityChicagoUnited States
| | - Anthony Burgos-Robles
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
- The Department of Neuroscience, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Neuroscience Institute & Brain Health Consortium, University of Texas at San AntonioSan AntonioUnited States
| | - Gillian A Matthews
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Tatenda Chakoma
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Makenzie Patarino
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Javier C Weddington
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Cody Siciliano
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
- Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt UniversityNashvilleUnited States
| | - Wannan Yang
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Shaun Foutch
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Renee Simons
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
| | - Ming-fai Fong
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
- Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Tech & Emory UniversityAtlantaUnited States
| | - Miao Jing
- Chinese Institute for Brain ResearchBeijingChina
| | - Yulong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Peking University School of Life Sciences; PKUIDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research; Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life SciencesBeijingChina
| | - Daniel B Polley
- Eaton-Peabody Laboratories, Massachusetts Eye and EarBostonUnited States
- Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Kay M Tye
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeUnited States
- HHMI Investigator, Member of the Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, and Wylie Vale Professor at the Salk Institute for Biological StudiesLa JollaUnited States
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Veselinović T, Neuner I. Progress and Pitfalls in Developing Agents to Treat Neurocognitive Deficits Associated with Schizophrenia. CNS Drugs 2022; 36:819-858. [PMID: 35831706 PMCID: PMC9345797 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-022-00935-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive impairments associated with schizophrenia (CIAS) represent a central element of the symptomatology of this severe mental disorder. CIAS substantially determine the disease prognosis and hardly, if at all, respond to treatment with currently available antipsychotics. Remarkably, all drugs presently approved for the treatment of schizophrenia are, to varying degrees, dopamine D2/D3 receptor blockers. In turn, rapidly growing evidence suggests the immense significance of systems other than the dopaminergic system in the genesis of CIAS. Accordingly, current efforts addressing the unmet needs of patients with schizophrenia are primarily based on interventions in other non-dopaminergic systems. In this review article, we provide a brief overview of the available evidence on the importance of specific systems in the development of CIAS. In addition, we describe the promising targets for the development of new drugs that have been used so far. In doing so, we present the most important candidates that have been investigated in the field of the specific systems in recent years and present a summary of the results available at the time of drafting this review (May 2022), as well as the currently ongoing studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Veselinović
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine 4, INM-4, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany.
| | - Irene Neuner
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine 4, INM-4, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Jülich, Germany
- JARA-BRAIN, Aachen, Germany
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7
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Cognitive Deficit in Schizophrenia: From Etiology to Novel Treatments. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189905. [PMID: 34576069 PMCID: PMC8468549 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a major mental illness characterized by positive and negative symptoms, and by cognitive deficit. Although cognitive impairment is disabling for patients, it has been largely neglected in the treatment of schizophrenia. There are several reasons for this lack of treatments for cognitive deficit, but the complexity of its etiology-in which neuroanatomic, biochemical and genetic factors concur-has contributed to the lack of effective treatments. In the last few years, there have been several attempts to develop novel drugs for the treatment of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. Despite these efforts, little progress has been made. The latest findings point to the importance of developing personalized treatments for schizophrenia which enhance neuroplasticity, and of combining pharmacological treatments with non-pharmacological measures.
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Morozova MA, Potanin SS, Rupchev GE, Burminskiy DS, Lepilkina TA, Beniashvili AG. [An effect of cholinesterase blockade on negative symptoms in schizophrenia]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2021; 121:37-44. [PMID: 34481434 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202112108137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Abstruct. OBJECTIVE To assess the possibilities of influencing the severity of negative disorders in schizophrenic patients with cholinesterase blockade. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study included stable 26 patients (13 of them women), average age 40.4 (SD 11.7) with paranoid schizophrenia, episodic form according to ICD-10). All patients received antipsychotic therapy, which was not changed at least for 2 months. We used psychometric scales (Positive and Negative Syndrome Assessment Scale (PANSS), Global Functioning Scale (GAF), neurocognitive techniques (Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia-BACS), projective psychological techniques (Rorschach test). RESULTS AND CONCLUSION The results of the study showed that augmentation of maintenance antipsychotic therapy with a cholinesterase blocker (ipidacrine at a dose of 20 mg per day) had positive impact on negative symptoms, decreasing the severity of emotional deficiency. The positive changes of cognitive impairment, measured with BACS, occurred regardless of changes in the severity of negative disorders, measured with PANSS. The Rorschach test showed an improvement in the conventional orientation of the patients' thinking. No exacerbation of psychotic symptoms was registered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - S S Potanin
- Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia
| | - G E Rupchev
- Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia.,Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
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Căpățînă OO, Micluția IV, Fadgyas-Stănculete M. Current perspectives in treating negative symptoms of schizophrenia: A narrative review (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 21:276. [PMID: 33603883 PMCID: PMC7851661 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.9707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The negative symptoms of schizophrenia are an unmet treatment target as currently approved treatments mostly control positive symptoms. The persistence of these symptoms holds back the patient's reinstatement in society, making them incapable of fulfilling their social, professional, or family roles. There is overwhelming research evidence suggesting that the negative symptoms of schizophrenia are associated with poorer functioning and lower quality of life than positive symptoms, confirming the need for developing new treatments for this particular category of symptoms. This present review aims to review clinical trials addressing novel pharmacological approaches addressing primary negative symptoms of schizophrenia. We overview both monotherapies, first-generation and second-generation antipsychotics, and add-on therapies, including psychostimulants, anti-inflammatory drugs, antidepressants, molecules targeting glutamatergic, cholinergic or serotonergic systems and hormones. Our findings suggest that the primary negative symptoms of schizophrenia may be mitigated by adjunctive therapies, and we highlight the pharmacological agents that have proven superior efficacy. Novel compounds such as cariprazine and MIN-101, to date, show promising results, but large clinical trials are needed to test their efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Octavia O Căpățînă
- Department of Neurosciences, 'Iuliu Haţieganu' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana V Micluția
- Department of Neurosciences, 'Iuliu Haţieganu' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Mihaela Fadgyas-Stănculete
- Department of Neurosciences, 'Iuliu Haţieganu' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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10
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Georgiou R, Lamnisos D, Giannakou K. Anticholinergic Burden and Cognitive Performance in Patients With Schizophrenia: A Systematic Literature Review. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:779607. [PMID: 35027893 PMCID: PMC8748260 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.779607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Cognitive impairment in schizophrenia forms the key cause of the disease's disability, leading to serious functional, and socioeconomic implications. Dopaminergic-cholinergic balance is considered essential to cognitive performance in schizophrenia and patients are often treated with many drugs with anticholinergic properties. This study aims to examine the cognitive impact of anticholinergic burden in patients with schizophrenia. Methods: A systematic literature review was performed on English-language studies published on PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science, from inception to June 2021, to identify research studies that examined the effect of anticholinergic load on cognition in clinically stable patients with schizophrenia. No restrictions on study design, age of participants, or geographical distribution were applied. Two researchers performed independently the screening and shortlisting of the eligible articles. A narrative synthesis of the main characteristics and findings of studies included was reported. Results: In total, 17 articles of varying methodological design met the inclusion criteria. Three of them found statistically significant improvement in cognition after anticholinergic tapering without adverse effects. Thirteen studies found a statistically significant association between high anticholinergic burden and cognitive impairment (neurocognitive composite scores and individual cognitive domains such as learning and memory, executive function, processing speed), apart from a study, related to the specific characteristics of clozapine. Conclusions: Medication with increased anticholinergic load has been found in most of the studies to negatively affect neurocognitive performance of patients with schizophrenia. However, the clinical and methodological heterogeneity of studies included limit our interpretation and conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaella Georgiou
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Demetris Lamnisos
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Konstantinos Giannakou
- Department of Health Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
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11
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Lago SG, Bahn S. Clinical Trials and Therapeutic Rationale for Drug Repurposing in Schizophrenia. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:58-78. [PMID: 29944339 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a paucity of efficacious novel drugs to address high rates of treatment resistance and refractory symptoms in schizophrenia. The identification of novel therapeutic indications for approved drugs-drug repurposing-has the potential to expedite clinical trials and reduce the costly risk of failure which currently limits central nervous system drug discovery efforts. In the present Review we discuss the historical role of drug repurposing in schizophrenia drug discovery and review the main classes of repurposing candidates currently in clinical trials for schizophrenia in terms of their therapeutic rationale, mechanisms of action, and preliminary results from clinical trials. Subsequently we outline the challenges and limitations which face the clinical repurposing pipeline and how novel technologies might serve to address these.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago G. Lago
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, U.K
| | - Sabine Bahn
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0AS, U.K
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12
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Multi-Target Approach for Drug Discovery against Schizophrenia. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19103105. [PMID: 30309037 PMCID: PMC6213273 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19103105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Polypharmacology is nowadays considered an increasingly crucial aspect in discovering new drugs as a number of original single-target drugs have been performing far behind expectations during the last ten years. In this scenario, multi-target drugs are a promising approach against polygenic diseases with complex pathomechanisms such as schizophrenia. Indeed, second generation or atypical antipsychotics target a number of aminergic G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) simultaneously. Novel strategies in drug design and discovery against schizophrenia focus on targets beyond the dopaminergic hypothesis of the disease and even beyond the monoamine GPCRs. In particular these approaches concern proteins involved in glutamatergic and cholinergic neurotransmission, challenging the concept of antipsychotic activity without dopamine D₂ receptor involvement. Potentially interesting compounds include ligands interacting with glycine modulatory binding pocket on N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, positive allosteric modulators of α-Amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors, positive allosteric modulators of metabotropic glutamatergic receptors, agonists and positive allosteric modulators of α7 nicotinic receptors, as well as muscarinic receptor agonists. In this review we discuss classical and novel drug targets for schizophrenia, cover benefits and limitations of current strategies to design multi-target drugs and show examples of multi-target ligands as antipsychotics, including marketed drugs, substances in clinical trials, and other investigational compounds.
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13
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Kishi T, Ikuta T, Oya K, Matsunaga S, Matsuda Y, Iwata N. Anti-Dementia Drugs for Psychopathology and Cognitive Impairment in Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2018; 21:748-757. [PMID: 29762677 PMCID: PMC6070030 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyy045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 05/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials of anti-dementia drugs plus antipsychotics for schizophrenia. METHODS Primary outcomes of efficacy and safety included improving overall symptoms (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale scores) and all-cause discontinuation, respectively. Other outcomes included psychopathology subscales (positive, negative, general, and anxiety/depressive symptoms), cognitive function (attention/vigilance, reasoning/problem solving, social cognition, speed of processing, verbal learning, visual learning, working memory, and cognitive control/executive function), Mini-Mental State Examination scores, treatment discontinuation due to adverse events and inefficacy, and individual adverse events. We evaluated the effect size using a random effects model. RESULTS We identified 37 studies (n=1574): 14 donepezil-based (n=568), 10 galantamine-based (n=371), 4 rivastigmine-based (n=146), and 9 memantine-based (n=489) studies. Pooled anti-dementia drugs plus antipsychotics treatments were superior to placebo plus antipsychotics in improving the overall symptoms (24 studies, 1069 patients: standardized mean difference=-0.34, 95% CI=-0.61 to -0.08, P=.01), negative symptoms (24 studies, 1077 patients: standardized mean difference =-0.62, 95% CI=-0.92 to -0.32, Pcorrected=.00018), and Mini-Mental State Examination scores (7 studies, 225 patients: standardized mean difference=-0.79, 95% CI=-1.23 to -0.34, P=.0006). No significant differences were found between anti-dementia drugs plus antipsychotics and placebo plus antipsychotics regarding other outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Although the results suggest that anti-dementia drugs plus antipsychotics treatment improves negative symptoms and Mini-Mental State Examination scores in schizophrenia patients, they possibly were influenced by a small-study effect and some bias. However, it was not superior to placebo plus antipsychotics in improving composite cognitive test score, which more systematically evaluates cognitive impairment than the Mini-Mental State Examination score. Overall, the anti-dementia drugs plus antipsychotics treatment was well tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taro Kishi
- Department of Psychiatry, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan,Correspondence: Taro Kishi, MD, PhD, Department of Psychiatry, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, 1–98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, Aichi 470–1192, Japan ()
| | - Toshikazu Ikuta
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, School of Applied Sciences, University of Mississippi, MS USA
| | - Kazuto Oya
- Department of Psychiatry, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan
| | - Shinji Matsunaga
- Department of Psychiatry, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan,Department of Department of Geriatrics and Cognitive Disorders, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yuki Matsuda
- Department of Psychiatry, Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nakao Iwata
- Department of Psychiatry, Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Aichi, Japan
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14
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Smart C, McAllister-Williams H, Cousins DA. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors in treatment-resistant psychotic depression. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2018; 8:59-61. [PMID: 29344344 PMCID: PMC5761905 DOI: 10.1177/2045125317718810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dopamine receptor antagonists can be effective in psychotic depression but response is not assured. Visual hallucinations may arise from a dysregulation of brain cholinergic systems and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) can treat such hallucinations in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). AChEIs have been used in schizophrenia with some success but their efficacy and tolerability in psychotic depression is unclear. This striking case illustrates AChEIs specifically targeting multimodal hallucinations in treatment-resistant depression. To our knowledge it is the first case report to do so. It highlights the value of delineating psychopathology when considering novel interventions. This case also shows the idiosyncratic nature of side effects and the importance of pursuing different drugs within class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Smart
- Academic Psychiatry, Wolfson Research Centre, Campus for Ageing and Vitality, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 5PL, UK
| | - Hamish McAllister-Williams
- Regional Affective Disorders Service, Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Hospital Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, and Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - David Andrew Cousins
- Regional Affective Disorders Service, Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Hospital Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK, and Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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15
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O'Tuathaigh CMP, Moran PM, Zhen XC, Waddington JL. Translating advances in the molecular basis of schizophrenia into novel cognitive treatment strategies. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 174:3173-3190. [PMID: 28667666 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2017] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence and severity of cognitive symptoms, including working memory, executive dysfunction and attentional impairment, contributes materially to functional impairment in schizophrenia. Cognitive symptoms have proved to be resistant to both first- and second-generation antipsychotic drugs. Efforts to develop a consensus set of cognitive domains that are both disrupted in schizophrenia and are amenable to cross-species validation (e.g. the National Institute of Mental Health Cognitive Neuroscience Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia and Research Domain Criteria initiatives) are an important step towards standardization of outcome measures that can be used in preclinical testing of new drugs. While causative genetic mutations have not been identified, new technologies have identified novel genes as well as hitherto candidate genes previously implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and/or mechanisms of antipsychotic efficacy. This review comprises a selective summary of these developments, particularly phenotypic data arising from preclinical genetic models for cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia, with the aim of indicating potential new directions for pro-cognitive therapeutics. Linked Articles This article is part of a themed section on Pharmacology of Cognition: a Panacea for Neuropsychiatric Disease? To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.19/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colm M P O'Tuathaigh
- School of Medicine, University College Cork, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, Cork, Ireland
| | - Paula M Moran
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Xuechu C Zhen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Translational Research & Therapy for Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - John L Waddington
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Translational Research & Therapy for Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, China.,Molecular and Cellular Therapeutics, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland
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16
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Correll CU, Rubio JM, Inczedy-Farkas G, Birnbaum ML, Kane JM, Leucht S. Efficacy of 42 Pharmacologic Cotreatment Strategies Added to Antipsychotic Monotherapy in Schizophrenia: Systematic Overview and Quality Appraisal of the Meta-analytic Evidence. JAMA Psychiatry 2017; 74:675-684. [PMID: 28514486 PMCID: PMC6584320 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2017.0624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Limited treatment responses in schizophrenia prompted the testing of combining an antipsychotic drug treatment with a second psychotropic medication. A comprehensive evaluation of the efficacy of multiple medication combinations is missing. OBJECTIVE To summarize and compare the meta-analytically determined efficacy of pharmacologic combination strategies of antipsychotic drugs in adults with schizophrenia. DATA SOURCES Systematic search of PubMed and PsycInfo until May 13, 2016. STUDY SELECTION Meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials comparing the efficacy of antipsychotic drugs combined with other antipsychotic or nonantipsychotic medications vs placebos or antipsychotic monotherapy among adults with schizophrenia. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Independent reviewers extracted the data and assessed the quality of the methods of the included meta-analyses using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR), adding 6 new items to rate their quality. Effect sizes, expressed as standardized mean difference /Hedges g or risk ratio, were compared separately for combinations with any antipsychotic drug and for combinations with clozapine. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was total symptom reduction. Secondary outcomes included positive and negative symptoms, treatment recommendations by authors, study-defined inefficacies, cognitive and depressive symptoms, discontinuation of treatment because of any cause, and inefficacies or intolerabilities. RESULTS Of 3397 publications, 29 meta-analyses testing 42 combination strategies in 381 individual trials and among 19 833 participants were included. For total symptom reductions, 32 strategies that augmented any antipsychotic drug and 5 strategies that augmented clozapine were examined. Fourteen combination treatments outperformed controls (standard mean difference/Hedges g, -1.27 [95% CI, -2.35 to -0.19] to -0.23 [95% CI, -0.44 to -0.02]; P = .05). No combination strategies with clozapine outperformed controls. The quality of the methods of the meta-analyses was generally high (mean score, 9 of a maximum score of 11) but the quality of the meta-analyzed studies was low (mean score, 2.8 of a maximum score of 8). Treatment recommendations correlated with the effect size (correlation coefficient, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.35-0.10; P < .001), yet effect sizes were inversely correlated with study quality (correlation coefficient, -0.06; 95% CI, 0.01 to -0.12; P = .02). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Meta-analyses of 21 interventions fully or partially recommended their use, with recommendations being positively correlated with the effect sizes of the pooled intervention. However, the effect sizes were inversely correlated with meta-analyzed study quality, reducing confidence in these recommendations. Higher-quality trials and patient-based meta-analyses are needed to determine whether subpopulations might benefit from combination treatment, as no single strategy can be recommended for patients with schizophrenia based on the current meta-analytic literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph U. Correll
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Psychiatry Research, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, New York,Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine, Hempstead, New York,The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York
| | - Jose M. Rubio
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Psychiatry Research, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, New York
| | | | - Michael L. Birnbaum
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Psychiatry Research, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, New York,Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine, Hempstead, New York,The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York
| | - John M. Kane
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Psychiatry Research, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, New York,Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine, Hempstead, New York,The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York
| | - Stefan Leucht
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar der Technischen Universität München, Munich, Germany
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17
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Shoja Shafti S, Azizi Khoei A. Effectiveness of rivastigmine on positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia: a double-blind clinical trial. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2016; 6:308-316. [PMID: 27721970 PMCID: PMC5036138 DOI: 10.1177/2045125316656334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several lines of evidence suggest that the cholinergic system may be disrupted in schizophrenia and so this may contribute to the cognitive impairments of schizophrenic patients. Because such deficits do not respond to neuroleptic treatment, different approaches have been done by acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs). The objective of the present assessment was to evaluate the safety and clinical effects of rivastigmine, as an adjunctive drug, on the clinical symptoms of schizophrenia. METHODS A total of 46 patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia entered into a 12-week, double-blind, clinical trial for random assignment to rivastigmine or placebo, as adjuvant to their current antipsychotic medication. Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) and Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) had been used as the primary outcome measures. Clinical Global Impressions- Improvement (CGI-I) Scale and Extrapyramidal Symptom Rating Scale (ESRS) had been used as the secondary measures. Treatment efficacy was evaluated by a Student's t test and repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Statistical significance was defined as a two-sided p value ⩽ 0.05. Cohen's standard (d) and correlation measures of effect size (r) had been calculated for comparing baseline to endpoint changes. RESULTS According to the findings, except for significant enhancement of MMSE by rivastigmine (p < 0.001), no significant improvement in PANSS (negative symptoms), PANSS (positive symptoms), and PANSS (general psychopathology) was evident in the target group. Also, except for significant improvement of CGI-I by rivastigmine in intragroup analysis, no significant effectiveness was evident in between-group analysis or repeated-measures ANOVA. ESRS, also, did not show any significant alteration in either group. Effect size (ES) analysis showed a large improvement in MMSE by rivastigmine. CONCLUSIONS According to the findings, while rivastigmine could not induce significant improvement of positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, it caused significant enhancement of cognitive function in this group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Shoja Shafti
- University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences (USWR), Razi Psychiatric Hospital, Tehran, Iran
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18
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Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and memantine in bipolar disorder: A systematic review and best evidence synthesis of the efficacy and safety for multiple disease dimensions. J Affect Disord 2016; 197:268-80. [PMID: 27010579 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2016.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2015] [Revised: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AceI) and memantine might prove useful in bipolar disorder (BD) given their neuroprotective and pro-cognitive effects, as highlighted by several case reports. We aimed to systematically review the efficacy and safety of AceI and memantine across multiple outcome dimensions in BD. METHODS Systematic PubMed and SCOPUS search until 04/17/2015 without language restrictions. Included were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), open label studies and case series of AceI or memantine in BD patients reporting quantitative data on depression, mania, psychotic symptoms, global functioning, or cognitive performance. We summarized results using a best-evidence based synthesis. RESULTS Out of 214 hits, 12 studies (RCTs=5, other designs=7, total n=422) were included. Donepezil (studies=5; treated=102 vs. placebo=21): there was strong evidence for no effect on mania and psychotic symptoms; low evidence indicating no effect on depression. Galantamine (studies=3; treated=21 vs. controls=20) (placebo=10, healthy subjects=10): there was strong evidence for no effect on mania; moderate evidence for no effect on depression; low evidence for no effect on global functioning. Memantine (studies=4; treated=152 vs. placebo=88): there was conflicting evidence regarding efficacy for mania, depression and global functioning. LIMITATIONS Paucity of RCTs; small sample size studies; heterogeneous design, outcome and patient characteristics. CONCLUSION There is limited but converging evidence of no effect of AceI in BD, and conflicting evidence about memantine in BD. Too few studies of mostly medium/low quality and lacking sufficient numbers of patients in specific mood states, especially mania, contributed data, focusing solely on short-term/medium-term treatment, necessitating additional high-quality research to yield more definite results.
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19
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Abstract
Interest in the negative symptoms of schizophrenia has increased rapidly over the last several decades, paralleling a growing interest in functional, in addition to clinical, recovery, and evidence underscoring the importance negative symptoms play in the former. Efforts continue to better define and measure negative symptoms, distinguish their impact from that of other symptom domains, and establish effective treatments as well as trials to assess these. Multiple interventions have been the subject of investigation, to date, including numerous pharmacological strategies, brain stimulation, and non-somatic approaches. Level and quality of evidence vary considerably, but to this point, no specific treatment can be recommended. This is particularly problematic for individuals burdened with negative symptoms in the face of mild or absent positive symptoms. Presently, clinicians will sometimes turn to interventions that are seen as more “benign” and in line with routine clinical practice. Strategies include use of atypical antipsychotics, ensuring the lowest possible antipsychotic dose that maintains control of positive symptoms (this can involve a shift from antipsychotic polypharmacy to monotherapy), possibly an antidepressant trial (given diagnostic uncertainty and the frequent use of these drugs in schizophrenia), and non-somatic interventions (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, CBT). The array and diversity of strategies currently under investigation highlight the lack of evidence-based treatments and our limited understanding regarding negative symptoms underlying etiology and pathophysiology. Their onset, which can precede the first psychotic break, also means that treatments are delayed. From this perspective, identification of biomarkers and/or endophenotypes permitting earlier diagnosis and intervention may serve to improve treatment efficacy as well as outcomes.
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20
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Psychosis is a common and functionally disruptive symptom of many psychiatric, neurodevelopmental, neurologic, and medical conditions and an important target of evaluation and treatment in neurologic and psychiatric practice. The purpose of this review is to define psychosis, communicate recent changes to the classification of and criteria for primary psychotic disorders described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), and summarize current evidence-based approaches to the evaluation and management of primary and secondary psychoses. RECENT FINDINGS The DSM-5 classification of and criteria for primary psychotic disorders emphasize that these conditions occur along a spectrum, with schizoid (personality) disorder and schizophrenia defining its mild and severe ends, respectively. Psychosis is also identified as only one of several dimensions of neuropsychiatric disturbance in these disorders, with others encompassing abnormal psychomotor behaviors, negative symptoms, cognitive impairments, and emotional disturbances. This dimensional approach regards hallucinations and delusions as arising from neural systems subserving perception and information processing, thereby aligning the neurobiological framework used to describe and study such symptoms in primary psychotic disorders with those used to study psychosis associated with other neurologic conditions. SUMMARY This article provides practicing neurologists with updates on current approaches to the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of primary and secondary psychoses.
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21
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Wexler E. Clinical neurogenetics: behavioral management of inherited neurodegenerative disease. Neurol Clin 2014; 31:1121-44. [PMID: 24176427 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2013.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Psychiatric symptoms often manifest years before overt neurologic signs in patients with inherited neurodegenerative disease. The most frequently cited example of this phenomenon is the early onset of personality changes in "presymptomatic" Huntington patients. In some cases the changes in mood and cognition are even more debilitating than their neurologic symptoms. The goal of this article is to provide the neurologist with a concise primer that can be applied in a busy clinic or private practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Wexler
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics, Semel Institute, University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine, 695 Charles Young Drive South, Gonda Room 2309, Los Angeles, CA 90024-1759, USA.
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22
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Umbricht D, Keefe RSE, Murray S, Lowe DA, Porter R, Garibaldi G, Santarelli L. A randomized, placebo-controlled study investigating the nicotinic α7 agonist, RG3487, for cognitive deficits in schizophrenia. Neuropsychopharmacology 2014; 39:1568-77. [PMID: 24549101 PMCID: PMC4023143 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2014.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Revised: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Effective treatments for cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia (CIAS) remain an unmet need. Nicotinic α7 receptor agonists may be effective in CIAS. This 8-week (week 1, inpatient; weeks 2-8, outpatient), double-blind, randomized study used Measurement And Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia (MATRICS) guidelines to investigate the nicotinic α7 partial agonist RG3487 (formerly MEM3454) in CIAS; 215 patients with chronic stable schizophrenia received placebo or RG3487 (5, 15, or 50 mg) added to ongoing treatment with risperidone, paliperidone, or aripiprazole. Primary end point was baseline to week 8 change in MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB) composite t-score. Secondary outcomes were change in MCCB domain and negative symptom assessment (NSA) scores. The study did not allow for evaluation of nonsmokers. Each RG3487 dose was evaluated using a mixed-effects model repeated measures approach. Mean (SD) baseline MCCB composite t-score was 28.3 (12.0). No significant effect on MCCB composite t-scores was observed with RG3487 (adjusted mean difference (SE) vs placebo: 5 mg: 0.11 (1.39); 15 mg: -1.95 (1.39); 50 mg: -1.13 (1.37); p = 0.2-0.9). RG3487 did not improve MCCB domain scores. In a post hoc analysis of patients with moderate negative symptoms, 5 and 50 mg RG3487 vs placebo significantly improved NSA total (-4.45 (p = 0.04) and -4.75 (p = 0.02), respectively) and global (-0.39 (p = 0.04) and -0.55 (p = 0.003), respectively) scores. The MCCB did not lead to higher than expected patient withdrawal. RG3487 was generally well tolerated. In patients with stable schizophrenia, RG3487 did not improve cognitive deficits, as assessed by the MCCB; however, in patients with moderate negative symptoms, a post hoc analysis revealed significant improvement of negative symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Umbricht
- CNS Research and Early Development, F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Basel, Switzerland,Pharmaceutical Division, F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Building 74 3W308, Basel 4070, Switzerland, Tel: +41 61 688 3043, Fax: +41 61 687 9843; E-mail:
| | - Richard SE Keefe
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Richard Porter
- CNS Research and Early Development, F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Basel, Switzerland
| | - George Garibaldi
- CNS Research and Early Development, F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luca Santarelli
- CNS Research and Early Development, F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Basel, Switzerland
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23
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Davis MC, Horan WP, Marder SR. Psychopharmacology of the negative symptoms: current status and prospects for progress. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2014; 24:788-99. [PMID: 24252823 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2013.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2013] [Revised: 10/12/2013] [Accepted: 10/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The past decade has witnessed a resurgence of interest in the development of novel pharmacological agents to treat the negative symptoms of schizophrenia. This review provides an overview of pharmacological approaches that have been evaluated as potential treatments and describes the emergence of several promising new approaches. First, we briefly describe recent methodological developments, including consensus-based clinical trial guidelines for patient selection criteria, symptom assessment, and trial duration. Next, we overview mono- and adjunctive-therapies that have been evaluated, including first- and second-generation antipsychotics, antidepressants, psychostimulants, molecules targeting cholinergic and glutamatergic systems, and hormones. We highlight the most promising pharmacological agents on the horizon, including glycine transporter-1 inhibitors, α7-nicotinic receptor positive allosteric modulators, and oxytocin, as well as non-pharmacological electromagnetic stimulation approaches. Further investigations, using optimal clinical trial design, hold considerable promise for discovering effective treatments for these functionally disabling symptoms in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael C Davis
- Department of Veterans Affairs, VISN 22 Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - William P Horan
- Department of Veterans Affairs, VISN 22 Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Stephen R Marder
- Department of Veterans Affairs, VISN 22 Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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24
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Arango C, Garibaldi G, Marder SR. Pharmacological approaches to treating negative symptoms: a review of clinical trials. Schizophr Res 2013; 150:346-52. [PMID: 23938176 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2013.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2013] [Revised: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 07/11/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Clinical trials of pharmacological agents targeting negative symptoms in schizophrenia are reviewed. The focus is on trials that occurred in patients who were stable on an antipsychotic medication at entry to the trial. A small number of trials compared antipsychotics as monotherapy for negative symptoms. Although the data supporting amisulpride for negative symptoms is promising the trials have limitations and it is plausible that the advantages of amisulpride over placebo may result from effects on secondary negative symptoms. Among available agents, antidepressant medications may have effects in negative symptoms. Other promising agents include minocycline, glutamatergic agents, and alpha-7 nicotinic agents. More than 15 active trials are currently underway to evaluate new treatments for negative symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celso Arango
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, IiSGM, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
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Chien WT, Yip ALK. Current approaches to treatments for schizophrenia spectrum disorders, part I: an overview and medical treatments. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2013; 9:1311-32. [PMID: 24049446 PMCID: PMC3775702 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s37485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
During the last three decades, an increasing understanding of the etiology, psychopathology, and clinical manifestations of schizophrenia spectrum disorders, in addition to the introduction of second-generation antipsychotics, has optimized the potential for recovery from the illness. Continued development of various models of psychosocial intervention promotes the goal of schizophrenia treatment from one of symptom control and social adaptation to an optimal restoration of functioning and/or recovery. However, it is still questionable whether these new treatment approaches can address the patients' needs for treatment and services and contribute to better patient outcomes. This article provides an overview of different treatment approaches currently used in schizophrenia spectrum disorders to address complex health problems and a wide range of abnormalities and impairments resulting from the illness. There are different treatment strategies and targets for patients at different stages of the illness, ranging from prophylactic antipsychotics and cognitive-behavioral therapy in the premorbid stage to various psychosocial interventions in addition to antipsychotics for relapse prevention and rehabilitation in the later stages of the illness. The use of antipsychotics alone as the main treatment modality may be limited not only in being unable to tackle the frequently occurring negative symptoms and cognitive impairments but also in producing a wide variety of adverse effects to the body or organ functioning. Because of varied pharmacokinetics and treatment responsiveness across agents, the medication regimen should be determined on an individual basis to ensure an optimal effect in its long-term use. This review also highlights that the recent practice guidelines and standards have recommended that a combination of treatment modalities be adopted to meet the complex health needs of people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders. In view of the heterogeneity of the risk factors and the illness progression of individual patients, the use of multifaceted illness management programs consisting of different combinations of physical, psychological, and social interventions might be efficient and effective in improving recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Tong Chien
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Annie LK Yip
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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Zugno AI, Julião RF, Budni J, Volpato AM, Fraga DB, Pacheco FD, Deroza PF, Luca RD, de Oliveira MB, Heylmann AS, Quevedo J. Rivastigmine reverses cognitive deficit and acetylcholinesterase activity induced by ketamine in an animal model of schizophrenia. Metab Brain Dis 2013; 28:501-8. [PMID: 23775300 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-013-9417-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2013] [Accepted: 05/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is one of the most disabling mental disorders that affects up to 1 % of the population worldwide. Although the causes of this disorder remain unknown, it has been extensively characterized by a broad range of emotional, ideational and cognitive impairments. Studies indicate that schizophrenia affects neurotransmitters such as dopamine, glutamate and acetylcholine. Recent studies suggest that rivastigmine (an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor) is important to improve the cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia. Therefore, the present study evaluated the protective effect of rivastigmine against the ketamine-induced behavioral (hyperlocomotion and cognitive deficit) and biochemical (increase of acetylcholinesterase activity) changes which characterize an animal model of schizophrenia in rats. Our results indicated that rivastigmine was effective to improve the cognitive deficit in different task (immediate memory, long term memory and short term memory) induced by ketamine in rats. Moreover, we observed that rivastigmina reversed the increase of acetylcholinesterase activity induced by ketamine in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and striatum. However, rivastigmine was not able to prevent the ketamine-induced hyperlocomotion. In conslusion, ours results indicate that cholinergic system might be an important therapeutic target in the physiopathology of schizophrenia, mainly in the cognition, but additional studies should be carried.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra I Zugno
- Laboratório de Neurociências, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia Translacional em Medicina (INCT-TM), and Núcleo de Excelência em Neurociências Aplicadas de Santa Catarina (NENASC), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Unidade Acadêmica de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, 88806-000, Criciúma, SC, Brazil.
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