Predictors of adherence to atypical antipsychotics (risperidone or olanzapine) in older patients with schizophrenia: an open study of 3(1/2) years duration

Factors Influencing Adherence to Antipsychotic Medications in Women with Delusional Disorder: A Narrative Review

BACKGROUND

Adherence to medication regimens is of great importance in psychiatry because drugs sometimes need to be taken for long durations in order to maintain health and function.

OBJECTIVE

To review influences on adherence to antipsychotic medications, the treatment of choice for delusional disorder (DD), and to focus on adherence in women with DD.

METHOD

A non-systematic narrative review of papers published since 2000 using PubMed and Google Scholar and focusing on women with DD and medication adherence.

RESULTS

Several factors have been identified as exerting influence on adherence in women with persistent delusional symptoms who are treated with antipsychotics. Personality features, intensity of delusion, perception of adverse effects, and cognitive impairment are patient factors. Clinical time spent with the patient, clarity of communication and regular drug monitoring are responsibilities of the health provider. Factors that neither patient nor clinician can control are the social determinants of health such as poverty, easy access to healthcare, and cultural variables.

CONCLUSIONS

There has been little investigation into factors that influence adherence in the target population discussed here -e.g. women with DD. Preliminary results of this literature search indicate that solutions from outside the field of DD may apply to this population. Overall, a solid therapeutic alliance appears to be the best hedge against non-adherence.

Comparison of Long-Acting Injectable Antipsychotics With Oral Antipsychotics and Suicide and All-Cause Mortality in Patients With Newly Diagnosed Schizophrenia

IMPORTANCE

Schizophrenia is generally considered to be among the most severe psychiatric disorders because of the excessive mortality associated with it. Research to find means to reduce this excessive mortality is warranted.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate associations of long-acting injectable antipsychotics (LAIs) with all-cause, natural-cause, and suicide mortality risks as well as the impacts of early use of LAIs in patients with newly diagnosed schizophrenia.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This cohort study used data from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database to construct a population-based cohort of patients with schizophrenia who received oral antipsychotics (OAPs) from January 1, 2002, to December 31, 2017. Within this cohort, the LAI group was defined as patients who switched to LAIs and were prescribed LAIs at least 4 times within 1 year. The LAI group was propensity matched 1:1 to patients who continued receiving OAPs of the same compounds. All patients were followed up until switching the antipsychotic administration route, death, or the end of the study (December 31, 2018), whichever occurred first. Data analysis was performed from January 2002 to December 2018.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

All-cause mortality, natural-cause mortality, suicide mortality, and suicide attempts.

RESULTS

In total, 2614 patients who switched to LAIs (median [interquartile range] {IQR} age, 30 [23-39] years) and 2614 who received OAPs (median [IQR] age, 30 [23-39] years) were included (1333 male patients [51.0%] in each group). During the 16-year follow-up period (median [IQR] follow-up of 14 [10-17] years), patients who switched to LAIs had lower risks of all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.66; 95% CI, 0.54-0.81), natural-cause mortality (aHR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.52-0.76), and suicide attempts (incidence rate ratio, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.55-0.93) compared with patients who received the corresponding OAPs. A 47% lower suicide mortality risk (aHR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.30-0.92) was observed in patients who switched to LAIs within the first 2 years of OAP initiation.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

These findings suggest that LAI use in patients with newly diagnosed schizophrenia is associated with decreased all-cause mortality and suicide risk. Furthermore, early treatment with LAIs within the first 2 years of OAP initiation was associated with a decrease in suicide mortality risk. Thus, LAI use in the early stage of treatment should be actively considered for patients with newly diagnosed schizophrenia.

The effectiveness of long-acting injectable antipsychotics versus oral antipsychotics in the maintenance treatment of outpatients with chronic schizophrenia

OBJECTIVE

To compare the psychiatric service utilization between patients who only received long-acting injectable antipsychotics (LAIAs) and those who only received oral antipsychotics (OAPs) in the maintenance treatment of chronic schizophrenia.

METHODS

We constructed a cohort of chronic schizophrenia patients who underwent maintenance treatment from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database in 2011 and followed these patients for 12 months. We included patients who had been diagnosed with schizophrenia for at least 3 years, were not hospitalized in 2011, and had received 1 year of maintenance treatment. Inverse probability of treatment weighting logistic, linear, and negative binomial regression models were used to estimate associated psychiatric services utilization and adjust for covariate imbalances between the LAIAs and OAPs groups.

RESULTS

Among 40,194 patients, 948 (2.36%) received only LAIAs and 39,246 (97.64%) received only OAPs. Compared with those who received only OAPs, the sole LAIAs users were associated with a lower percentage of psychiatric hospitalization (8.4% and 5.8%, respectively; odds ratio: 0.63, p < .01), shorter lengths of hospitalization days (82.8 and 65.9, respectively; coefficient [b]: -16.87, p = .03), and fewer emergency room visits (2.3 and 1.8, respectively; b: -0.24, p < .01) per patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic schizophrenia patients who received only LAIs had a lower risk of disease relapse and a reduction in psychiatric service utilization than those receiving only OAPs.

New patient-reported outcome measure to assess perceived barriers to antiretroviral therapy adherence: the PEDIA scale

This study sought to develop and evaluate a new patient-reported outcome measure to assess perceived barriers to antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence. The Perceived Barriers to Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence (PEDIA) scale was developed based on individual interviews with patients. After pilot testing and assessing the evidence based on content analysis, the scale's revisions resulted in a 40-item version. The PEDIA was applied to 415 HIV-infected adults receiving ART for a maximum of 180 days, recruited from three healthcare facilities of reference in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The analyses included exploratory factor analysis, internal consistency, item response theory, temporal stability, and predictive test-criterion relationship. The scale's final version contains 18 items distributed in three dimensions, as follows: cognitive and routine problems (4 items); medication and health concerns (6 items); and patient's fears and feelings (8 items). The results of McDonald's omega and temporal stability demonstrate that the PEDIA is internally consistent and yields stable scores over time. The assessment of the information's functions suggested that the three dimensions were informative for assessing a broad range of latent traits. Evidence concerning the test-criterion relationship confirmed that the PEDIA was able to predict non-adherence three months later. Our findings suggest that the PEDIA is a psychometrically adequate tool for evaluating perceived barriers in adult patients initiating ART. It could be used in both research and clinical practice for the early detection of patients at risk of non-adherence and for the identification of potentially modifiable barriers.

Long-term effectiveness of oral second-generation antipsychotics in patients with schizophrenia and related disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis of direct head-to-head comparisons

Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are recommended for maintenance treatment in schizophrenia. However, comparative long-term effectiveness among SGAs is unclear. Here we provide a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials lasting ≥⃒6 months comparing SGAs head-to-head in schizophrenia and related disorders. The primary outcome was all-cause discontinuation. Secondary outcomes included efficacy and tolerability, i.e., psychopathology, inefficacy-related and intolerability-related discontinuation, relapse, hospitalization, remission, functioning, quality of life, and adverse events. Pooled risk ratio and standardized mean difference were calculated using random-effects models. Across 59 studies (N=45,787), lasting 47.4±32.1 weeks (range 24-186), no consistent superiority of any SGA emerged across efficacy and tolerability outcomes. Regarding all-cause discontinuation, clozapine, olanzapine and risperidone were significantly (p<0.05) superior to several other SGAs, while quetiapine was inferior to several other SGAs. As to psychopathology, clozapine and olanzapine were superior to several other SGAs, while quetiapine and ziprasidone were inferior to several other SGAs. Data for other efficacy outcomes were sparse. Regarding intolerability-related discontinuation, risperidone was superior and clozapine was inferior to several other SGAs. Concerning weight gain, olanzapine was worse than all other compared non-clozapine SGAs, and risperidone was significantly worse than several other SGAs. As to prolactin increase, risperidone and amisulpride were significantly worse than several other SGAs. Regarding parkinsonism, olanzapine was superior to risperidone, without significant differences pertaining to akathisia. Concerning sedation and somnolence, clozapine and quetiapine were significantly worse than some other SGAs. In summary, different long-term SGA efficacy and tolerability patterns emerged. The long-term risk-benefit profiles of specific SGAs need to be tailored to individual patients to optimize maintenance treatment outcomes.

Very Late-Onset Schizophrenia-Like Psychosis: A Clinical Update

Psychosis symptoms (delusions and hallucinations) are multifactorial in origin and, in later life, occur in the context of schizophrenia, delirium, dementia, delusional and schizophrenia-like disorders, mood disorders, and alcohol or substance abuse. The current article provides a clinical overview of very late-onset (after age 60) schizophrenia-like psychosis (VLOSLP), summarizing the literature on treatment options and reflecting on the role of psychiatric-mental health nurses (PMHNs). Increased awareness of the clinical presentation, key features, and evidence-based treatment options will assist PMHNs to confidently recognize this often under-diagnosed disorder and adopt a more assertive role in terms of engagement and follow up. Pragmatic research involving individuals with VLOSLP is required to increase the evidence base for treatment and improve outcomes of care. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56(1), 37-47.].

Antipsychotic medication and long-term mortality risk in patients with schizophrenia; a systematic review and meta-analysis

Patients with schizophrenia have a higher mortality risk than patients suffering from any other psychiatric disorder. Previous research is inconclusive regarding the association of antipsychotic treatment with long-term mortality risk. To this aim, we systematically reviewed the literature and performed a meta-analysis on the relationship between long-term mortality and exposure to antipsychotic medication in patients with schizophrenia. The objectives were to (i) determine long-term mortality rates in patients with schizophrenia using any antipsychotic medication; (ii) compare these with mortality rates of patients using no antipsychotics; (iii) explore the relationship between cumulative exposure and mortality; and (iv) assess causes of death. We systematically searched the EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsycINFO databases for studies that reported on mortality and antipsychotic medication and that included adults with schizophrenia using a follow-up design of more than 1 year. A total of 20 studies fulfilled our inclusion criteria. These studies reported 23,353 deaths during 821,347 patient years in 133,929 unique patients. Mortality rates varied widely per study. Meta-analysis on a subgroup of four studies showed a consistent trend of an increased long-term mortality risk in schizophrenia patients who did not use antipsychotic medication during follow-up. We found a pooled risk ratio of 0.57 (LL:0.46 UL:0.76 p value <0.001) favouring any exposure to antipsychotics. Statiscal heterogeneity was found to be high (Q = 39.31, I 2 = 92.37%, p value < 0.001). Reasons for the increased risk of death for patients with schizophrenia without antipsychotic medication require further research. Prospective validation studies, uniform measures of antipsychotic exposure and classified causes of death are commendable.

Impact of long-acting injectable antipsychotics on medication adherence and clinical, functional, and economic outcomes of schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a debilitating chronic disease that requires lifelong medical care and supervision. Even with treatment, the majority of patients relapse within 5 years, and suicide may occur in up to 10% of patients. Poor adherence to oral antipsychotics is the most common cause of relapse. The discontinuation rate for oral antipsychotics in schizophrenia ranges from 26% to 44%, and as many as two-thirds of patients are at least partially nonadherent, resulting in increased risk of hospitalization. A very helpful approach to improve adherence in schizophrenia is the use of long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics, although only a minority of patients receive these. Reasons for underutilization may include negative attitudes, perceptions, and beliefs of both patients and health care professionals. Research shows, however, significant improvements in adherence with LAIs compared with oral drugs, and this is accompanied by lower rates of discontinuation, relapse, and hospitalization. In addition, LAIs are associated with better functioning, quality of life, and patient satisfaction. A need exists to encourage broader LAI use, especially among patients with a history of nonadherence with oral antipsychotics. This paper reviews the impact of nonadherence with antipsychotic drug therapy overall, as well as specific outcomes of the schizophrenia patient, and highlights the potential benefits of LAIs.

Management of schizophrenia in late life with antipsychotic medications: a qualitative review

Although patients with schizophrenia are reported to have excess mortality compared with the general population, many affected patients will nonetheless survive and continue to have the disorder in later life. Consequently, geriatric schizophrenia will be a significant public health concern in the years to come, and evidence-based treatment of schizophrenia in older patients is becoming an urgent issue. However, there has been a paucity of comparative data to guide selection of antipsychotics for schizophrenia in late life. The primary aim of this review was to synthesize the available evidence on management of late-life schizophrenia with antipsychotic medications; a secondary aim was to evaluate treatment resistance in this population. Accordingly, PubMed and EMBASE were searched using the keywords 'antipsychotics', 'age' and 'schizophrenia' to identify psychopharmacological studies of antipsychotics in late-life schizophrenia (last search 30 April 2011). The literature search identified 23 prospective studies of use of antipsychotics for schizophrenia in older patients (generally age ≥65 years), including eight double-blind trials. The sample size was smaller than 40 patients for 52% of the studies. Two of the double-blind studies were post hoc analyses and one was a placebo-controlled trial. In the largest double-blind study, olanzapine (n = 88, median dose 10 mg/day) and risperidone (n = 87, median dose 2 mg/day) were compared in patients not resistant to these therapies, with similar effects. There have also been several open-label trials of these two agents that have shown efficacy and tolerability in non-resistant patients. Evidence on other antipsychotics has been scarce and less robust. The gold standard for treatment-resistant schizophrenia is clozapine. However, almost all of the studies of clozapine to date have effectively excluded older patients with schizophrenia. Only one small study has evaluated clozapine (n = 24, mean dose 300 mg/day) in comparison with chlorpromazine (n = 18, mean dose 600 mg/day) in a difficult-to-treat older population; the investigators reported that both treatments were similarly efficacious. Furthermore, there has been little compelling evidence in favour of or against augmentation of antipsychotics with other psychotropic medications in the older age group. Treatment of non-resistant, late-life schizophrenia with olanzapine and risperidone appears to be supported by the available evidence. However, data on geriatric patients with schizophrenia are generally scarce, particularly for treatment-resistant subpopulations, underscoring the need for more research in this important area.

Antipsychotic drug treatment for elderly people with late-onset schizophrenia

BACKGROUND

Schizophrenia is usually considered an illness of young adulthood. However, onset after the age of 40 years is reported in 23% of patients hospitalised with schizophrenia. At least 0.1% of the world's elderly population have a diagnosis of late-onset schizophrenia which seems to differ from earlier onset schizophrenia on a variety of counts including response to antipsychotic drugs.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of antipsychotic drugs for elderly people with late-onset schizophrenia.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Schizophrenia Group Trials Register (January 2010) which is based on regular searches of CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsycINFO. We inspected references of all identified studies for further trials. We contacted relevant authors of trials for additional information.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All relevant randomised controlled trials that compared antipsychotic drugs with other treatments for elderly people (at least 80% older than 65 years) with a recent (within five years) diagnosis of schizophrenia or schizophrenia like illnesses.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

For the 2010 search, two new review authors (AE, AG) inspected all citations to ensure reliable selection. We assessed methodological quality of trials using the criteria recommended in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. AE and AG also independently extracted data. For homogenous dichotomous data, we planned to calculate the relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

MAIN RESULTS

There were no included studies in the original version of this review (2002 search). The 2010 search for the current update produced 211 references, among which we identified 88 studies. Only one study met the inclusion criteria and was of acceptable quality. This was an eight-week randomised trial of risperidone and olanzapine in 44 inpatients with late-onset schizophrenia. All participants completed the eight-week trial, indicating that both drugs were well tolerated. Unfortunately, this study provided little usable data. We excluded a total of 81 studies, 77 studies because they either studied interventions other than antipsychotic medication or because they involved elderly people with chronic - not late-onset - schizophrenia. We excluded a further four trials of antipsychotics in late-onset schizophrenia because of flawed design. Five studies are still awaiting classification, and one is on-going.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is no trial-based evidence upon which to base guidelines for the treatment of late-onset schizophrenia. There is a need for good quality-controlled clinical trials into the effects of antipsychotics for this group. Such trials are possible. Until they are undertaken, people with late-onset schizophrenia will be treated by doctors using clinical judgement and habit to guide prescribing.

Prevalence and factors associated with medication compliance in Indian patients suffering from mental disorders

The overall prevalence of non-adherence among patients with mental disorders in our study was 38%. However, 50% of the non-adherents were suffering from schizophrenia. Younger patients with good social support had good adherence whereas those with more severe illnesses and who were sedated were associated with non-adherence.