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Abd Elkader HTAE, Hussein MM, Mohammed NA, Abdou HM. The protective role of L-carnitine on oxidative stress, neurotransmitter perturbations, astrogliosis, and apoptosis induced by thiamethoxam in the brains of male rats. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:4365-4379. [PMID: 38099937 PMCID: PMC11111572 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02887-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Synthetic organic insecticides such as pyrethroids, organophosphates, neonicotinoids, and others have the potential to disrupt ecosystems and are often toxic to humans. Thiamethoxam (TMX), a neonicotinoid insecticide , is a widely used insecticide with neurotoxic potential. L-Carnitine (LC) is regarded as the "gatekeeper" in charge of allowing long-chain fatty acids into cell mitochondria. LC is an endogenous chemical that is renowned for its prospective biological activity in addition to its role in energy metabolism. This study investigated the protective effects of LC against TMX-induced neurotoxicity in male Wistar rats. For 28 days, animals were divided into four groups and treated daily with either LC (300 mg/kg), TMX (100 mg/kg), or both at the aforementioned doses. Our results revealed marked serum lipid profile and electrolyte changes, declines in brain antioxidants and neurotransmitters (acetylcholine, dopamine, and serotonin levels) with elevations in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and proinflammatory cytokine levels, as well as acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase brain activity in TMX-treated rats. TMX also increased the expression of caspase-3 and glial fibrillary acidic protein. In contrast, pretreatment with LC attenuated TMX-induced brain injury by suppressing oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines and modulating neurotransmitter levels. It also ameliorated the expression of apoptotic and astrogliosis markers. It could be concluded that LC has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-astrogliosis, and anti-apoptotic potential against TMX neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nema A Mohammed
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Heba M Abdou
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Darrow SM, Pizzagalli DA, Smoski M, Mathew SJ, Nurnberger J, Lisanby SH, Iosifescu D, Murrough JW, Yang H, Weiner RD, Sanacora G, Keefe RSE, Song A, Goodman W, Whitton AE, Potter WZ, Krystal AD. Using latent profile analyses to classify subjects with anhedonia based on reward-related measures obtained in the FAST-MAS study. J Affect Disord 2023; 339:584-592. [PMID: 37467805 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.07.081] [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: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growing evidence indicates that anhedonia is a multifaceted construct. This study examined the possibility of identifying subgroups of people with anhedonia using multiple reward-related measures to provide greater understanding the Research Domain Criteria's Positive Valence Systems Domain and pathways for developing treatments. METHODS Latent profile analysis of baseline data from a study that examined the effects of a novel kappa opioid receptor (KOR) antagonist drug on measures and biomarkers associated with anhedonia was used to identify subgroups. Measures included ventral striatal activation during the Monetary Incentive Delay task, response bias in the Probabilistic Reward Task, reward valuation scores from the Effort-Expenditure for Rewards Task, and scores from reward-related self-report measures. RESULTS Two subgroups were identified, which differed on self-report measures of reward. Participants in the subgroup reporting more anhedonia also reported more depression and had greater illness severity and functional impairments. Graphs of change with treatment showed a trend for the less severe subgroup to demonstrate higher response to KOR antagonist treatment on the neuroimaging measure, probabilistic reward task, and ratings of functioning; the subgroup with greater severity showed a trend for higher treatment response on reward-related self-report measures. LIMITATIONS The main limitations include the small sample size and exploratory nature of analyses. CONCLUSIONS Evidence of possible dissociation between self-reported measures of anhedonia and other measures with respect to treatment response emerged. These results highlight the importance for future research to consider severity of self-reported reward-related deficits and how the relationship across measurement methods may vary with severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina M Darrow
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, United States of America.
| | | | - Moria Smoski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University, United States of America
| | | | - John Nurnberger
- Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University Medical Center, United States of America
| | - Sarah H Lisanby
- National Institute of Mental Health, United States of America
| | | | - James W Murrough
- Department of Psychiatry, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, United States of America
| | | | | | - Gerard Sanacora
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, United States of America
| | - Richard S E Keefe
- Department of Psychiatry, Duke University Medical Center, United States of America
| | - Allen Song
- Duke University, United States of America
| | - Wayne Goodman
- Department of Psychiatry, Baylor College of Medicine, United States of America
| | | | | | - Andrew D Krystal
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, United States of America
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Di Nicola M, Pepe M, Panaccione I, Moccia L, Janiri L, Sani G. Update on Pharmacological Treatment for Comorbid Major Depressive and Alcohol Use Disorders: The Role of Extended-release Trazodone. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:2195-2205. [PMID: 37013426 PMCID: PMC10556391 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230403080624] [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] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) are major public health concerns because of their high prevalence and clinical and functional severity. MDD and AUD commonly co-occur, but effective therapeutic approaches for comorbidity are still scarce. Available evidence on selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants held mixed results, and further pharmacological categories have been less investigated. Trazodone is an approved antidepressant drug for adults and has shown efficacy on symptoms like anxiety and insomnia observed in AUD patients as well. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the effect of extended-release trazodone on clinical and functional features in MDD + AUD subjects. METHODS One hundred MDD + AUD outpatients were retrospectively evaluated at 1, 3, and 6 months of treatment with extended-release trazodone (150-300 mg/day, flexibly dosed). Improvement in depressive symptoms was the primary outcome measure. Changes in anxiety, sleep, functioning, quality of life, clinical global severity, and alcohol craving were also investigated. RESULTS Trazodone reduced depressive symptoms (p < 0.001) with 54.5% remission at the endpoint. Similar improvements were observed in all secondary outcomes, including anxiety, sleep alterations, and craving (p < 0.001). Only mild side effects were reported and disappeared over time. CONCLUSION Extended-release trazodone displayed good antidepressant properties in MDD + AUD patients, ameliorating overall symptomatology, functioning, and quality of life, with a good safety/ tolerability profile. Further, it significantly improved sleep disturbances and craving symptoms, which are associated with drinking relapse and worse outcomes. Therefore, trazodone might represent a promising pharmacological option for MDD + AUD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Di Nicola
- Department of Psychiatry, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Psychiatry, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Pepe
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Psychiatry, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Lorenzo Moccia
- Department of Psychiatry, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Psychiatry, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Janiri
- Department of Psychiatry, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Psychiatry, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Sani
- Department of Psychiatry, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Psychiatry, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Gallus S, Lugo A, Borroni E, Vignoli T, Lungaro L, Caio G, De Giorgio R, Zoli G, Caputo F. Symptoms of Protracted Alcohol Withdrawal in Patients with Alcohol Use Disorder: A Comprehensive Systematic Review. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:409-416. [PMID: 35794766 PMCID: PMC10190151 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220706105253] [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] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is characterized by different phases (acute, early and protracted). Protracted alcohol withdrawal (PAW) presents some symptoms, which may persist for several weeks, months or even years after drinking cessation. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of the literature in major scientific databases on selected AWS symptoms (craving, sleep disorders, and anhedonia) in patients with alcohol use disorder. RESULTS Of the 102 eligible publications (70 RCTs and 32 cohort studies), 88 provided data on craving, 21 on sleep disorders, and 1 on anhedonia. Overall, 37 studies assessed craving using the Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale (OCDS). Pooled OCDS decreased from 24.2 at baseline to 18.8 at 1 week, 10.3 at 1 month and 9.7 at 3 months. The corresponding estimates for treated individuals were 23.9, 18.8, 8.7, and 8.8, and for non-treated subjects, they were 25.3, 13.9, 13.2, and 11.4, respectively. In 4 studies assessing sleep disorders using the Epworth Sleeping Scale (ESS), the scale remained stable in time, i.e., 7.3 at baseline, 7.3 at 1 week, 7.2 at 1 month, and 7.1 at 3 months. CONCLUSION This study confirms the presence of PAW after the resolution of the acute phase of AWS. The pharmacological approach to managing PAW may ensure a more rapid reduction of symptoms in three weeks. We highlight the importance of studying PAW and the ability of pharmacological treatment to reduce its symptoms. This review protocol is registered in Prospero (registration number: CRD42020211265). SUMMARY This systematic review summarizes literature on major symptoms of protracted alcohol withdrawal in patients with alcohol use disorder. The pharmacological approach to manage protracted alcohol withdrawal ensures a more rapid reduction of symptoms (craving in particular), achieving in three weeks similar results obtained only after almost 6 months without treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvano Gallus
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandra Lugo
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Borroni
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Teo Vignoli
- Department of Addiction and Mental Health, Romagna Healthcare Service, Lugo Addiction Unit, Bologna, Emilia- Romagna, Italy
| | - Lisa Lungaro
- Department of Translational Medicine, Centre for the Study and Treatment of Alcohol-Related Diseases, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giacomo Caio
- Department of Translational Medicine, Centre for the Study and Treatment of Alcohol-Related Diseases, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto De Giorgio
- Department of Translational Medicine, Centre for the Study and Treatment of Alcohol-Related Diseases, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgio Zoli
- Centre for the Study and Treatment of Alcohol-Related Diseases, Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, SS Annunziata Hospital, University of Ferrara, Cento (Ferrara), Italy
| | - Fabio Caputo
- Department of Translational Medicine, Centre for the Study and Treatment of Alcohol-Related Diseases, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine, SS Annunziata Hospital, University of Ferrara, Cento (Ferrara), Italy
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Dambrova M, Makrecka-Kuka M, Kuka J, Vilskersts R, Nordberg D, Attwood MM, Smesny S, Sen ZD, Guo AC, Oler E, Tian S, Zheng J, Wishart DS, Liepinsh E, Schiöth HB. Acylcarnitines: Nomenclature, Biomarkers, Therapeutic Potential, Drug Targets, and Clinical Trials. Pharmacol Rev 2022; 74:506-551. [PMID: 35710135 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.121.000408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 67.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Acylcarnitines are fatty acid metabolites that play important roles in many cellular energy metabolism pathways. They have historically been used as important diagnostic markers for inborn errors of fatty acid oxidation and are being intensively studied as markers of energy metabolism, deficits in mitochondrial and peroxisomal β -oxidation activity, insulin resistance, and physical activity. Acylcarnitines are increasingly being identified as important indicators in metabolic studies of many diseases, including metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, depression, neurologic disorders, and certain cancers. The US Food and Drug Administration-approved drug L-carnitine, along with short-chain acylcarnitines (acetylcarnitine and propionylcarnitine), is now widely used as a dietary supplement. In light of their growing importance, we have undertaken an extensive review of acylcarnitines and provided a detailed description of their identity, nomenclature, classification, biochemistry, pathophysiology, supplementary use, potential drug targets, and clinical trials. We also summarize these updates in the Human Metabolome Database, which now includes information on the structures, chemical formulae, chemical/spectral properties, descriptions, and pathways for 1240 acylcarnitines. This work lays a solid foundation for identifying, characterizing, and understanding acylcarnitines in human biosamples. We also discuss the emerging opportunities for using acylcarnitines as biomarkers and as dietary interventions or supplements for many wide-ranging indications. The opportunity to identify new drug targets involved in controlling acylcarnitine levels is also discussed. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This review provides a comprehensive overview of acylcarnitines, including their nomenclature, structure and biochemistry, and use as disease biomarkers and pharmaceutical agents. We present updated information contained in the Human Metabolome Database website as well as substantial mapping of the known biochemical pathways associated with acylcarnitines, thereby providing a strong foundation for further clarification of their physiological roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maija Dambrova
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - Marina Makrecka-Kuka
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - Janis Kuka
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - Reinis Vilskersts
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - Didi Nordberg
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - Misty M Attwood
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - Stefan Smesny
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - Zumrut Duygu Sen
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - An Chi Guo
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - Eponine Oler
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - Siyang Tian
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - Jiamin Zheng
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - David S Wishart
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - Edgars Liepinsh
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
| | - Helgi B Schiöth
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Pharmacology, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Riga, Latvia (M.D., M.M.-K., J.K., R.V., E.L.); Section of Functional Pharmacology, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden, (D.N., M.M.A., H.B.S.); Department of Psychiatry, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany (S.S., Z.D.S.); and Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada (A.C.G., E.O., S.T., J.Z., D.S.W.)
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Zheng W, Gu LM, Sun CH, Zhou YL, Wang CY, Lan XF, Zhang B, Ning YP. Comparative effectiveness of repeated ketamine infusions in treating anhedonia in bipolar and unipolar depression. J Affect Disord 2022; 300:109-113. [PMID: 34965393 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.12.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Anhedonia is a common, persistent, and disabling phenomenon in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar depression (BD). This study was conducted to investigate the comparative effectiveness of repeated ketamine infusions in treating anhedonia in Chinese individuals suffering from MDD and BD. METHODS Ninety-seven individuals suffering from MDD (n = 77) or BD (n = 20) were treated with six intravenous infusions of ketamine (0.5 mg/kg) administered over 40 min. Anhedonia was measured through the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). The antianhedonic response and remission were defined as ≥ 50% and ≥ 75% reduction in MADRS anhedonia subscale score one day after the sixth infusion, respectively. RESULTS Anti-anhedonic response and remission rates after the sixth ketamine infusion were 48.5% (95% confidence interval = 38.3%-58.6%) and 30.9% (95% confidence interval = 21.6%-40.3%), respectively. When compared to baseline, a significant reduction in the MADRS anhedonia subscale score was observed at 4 h after the first infusion and was maintained with repeated infusions at any time point (all Ps < 0.05). The anti-anhedonic effect of ketamine did not differ between the MDD and BD groups. CONCLUSION This preliminary study found that repeated ketamine infusions appeared to be effective at rapidly ameliorating anhedonia, with similar efficacy in MDD and BD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zheng
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Mei Gu
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Chen-Hui Sun
- Qingdao Mental Health Center, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yan-Ling Zhou
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng-Yu Wang
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Lan
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Ping Ning
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China; The first School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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7
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Effect of vortioxetine in subjects with major depressive and alcohol use disorders: a 6-month retrospective analysis. CNS Spectr 2022; 27:73-81. [PMID: 32772956 DOI: 10.1017/s109285292000173x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder (MDD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD) are highly comorbid, with greater clinical complexity and psychosocial impairment. Several antidepressants have been used in this population, with mixed results. This preliminary study aims to investigate the effects of the multimodal antidepressant vortioxetine in MDD + AUD subjects. METHODS We retrospectively evaluated 57 MDD + AUD and 56 MDD outpatients, matched for baseline characteristics. Patients were assessed after 1, 3, and 6 months treatment with vortioxetine (10-20 mg/d, flexibly dosed) in combination with continuous psychosocial support. The primary outcome was improvement in depressive symptoms measured by the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale. We also investigated changes in anxiety, anhedonia, cognition, functioning, quality of life, and clinical global severity using the following instruments: Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale, Digit Symbol Substitution Test, Perceived Deficits Questionnaire-Depression, Functioning Assessment Short Test, Quality of Life Index, and Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale. RESULTS Vortioxetine significantly improved mood in MDD + AUD patients (P < .001), with no differences when compared to MDD (P = .36). A substantial rate (45.6%) of comorbid subjects obtained clinical remission at endpoint (P = .36 vs MDD). We additionally observed baseline to endpoint improvements on all secondary outcomes (P < .001), with no significant difference between groups. Overall, vortioxetine was safe and well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS Given its effectiveness on mood, cognition, and functioning, its good safety and tolerability profile, and low potential for abuse, vortioxetine could represent a valid pharmacological intervention in MDD + AUD patients as part of an integrated therapeutic-rehabilitation program.
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Emery NN, Carpenter RW, Meisel SN, Miranda R. Effects of topiramate on the association between affect, cannabis craving, and cannabis use in the daily life of youth during a randomized clinical trial. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:3095-3106. [PMID: 34331080 PMCID: PMC8908944 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05925-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Topiramate is an anticonvulsant currently under study for treating substance use disorders. Topiramate is thought to reduce substance use by attenuating craving and the rewarding effects of acute substance use through its concurrent GABAergic agonism and glutamatergic antagonism. Importantly, topiramate also impacts mood states central to many models of substance use. Despite this, little previous research has examined whether topiramate attenuates the respective associations of affect and craving with substance use. OBJECTIVES We conducted a secondary analysis of 63 youths that exhibited heavy cannabis use, aged 15-24 years, who were randomized in a double-blinded 6-week clinical trial comparing the effects of topiramate (up to 200 mg/day) and placebo on cannabis use. Ecological momentary assessment data were leveraged to model the role positive affect, negative affect, and craving on use over the 6-week period and whether topiramate attenuated associations between these feeling states and cannabis use. RESULTS Findings showed that craving was positively associated with use at the within-person level, while positive affect was negatively associated with use at the between-person level. Topiramate appears to attenuate the negative association of between-person positive affect (i.e., average) and cannabis use. Specifically, those in the placebo condition exhibited this inverse association between average positive affect and use while those in topiramate condition did not. No other significant affect or affect × medication condition interactions were observed. CONCLUSIONS These findings implicate craving and low positive affect as important risk factors for cannabis use in youth in treatment. Topiramate may attenuate this association for positive affect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah N. Emery
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Ryan W. Carpenter
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Samuel N. Meisel
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Box S121-4, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Robert Miranda
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Box S121-4, Providence, RI, 02912, USA.
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9
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Bota AB, Simmons JG, DiBattista A, Wilson K. Carnitine in Alcohol Use Disorders: A Scoping Review. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2021; 45:666-674. [PMID: 33576525 PMCID: PMC8252636 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14568] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies in alcohol use disorders (AUDs) have demonstrated some connections between carnitine metabolism and the pathophysiology of the disease. In this scoping review, we aimed to collate and examine existing research available on carnitine metabolism and AUDs and develop hypotheses surrounding the role carnitine may play in AUD. A scoping review method was used to search electronic databases in September 2019. The database search terms used included “alcohol, alcoholism, alcohol abuse, alcohol consumption, alcohol drinking patterns, alcohol‐induced disorders, alcoholic intoxication, alcohol‐related disorders, binge drinking, Wernicke encephalopathy, acylcarnitine, acetyl‐l‐carnitine, acetylcarnitine, carnitine and palmitoylcarnitine.” The inclusion criteria included English language, human‐based, AUD diagnosis and measured blood or tissue carnitine or used carnitine as a treatment. Of 586 studies that were identified and screened, 65 underwent abstract review, and 41 were fully reviewed. Eighteen studies were ultimately included for analysis. Data were summarized in an electronic data extraction form. We found that there is limited literature available. Alcohol use appears to impact carnitine metabolism, most clearly in the setting of alcoholic cirrhosis. Six studies found carnitine to be increased in AUD, of which 5 were conducted in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis. Only 3 placebo‐controlled trials were identified and provide some support for the use of carnitine in AUD to decrease cravings, anhedonia, and withdrawal and improve cognition. The increase in plasma carnitine in alcoholic cirrhosis may be related to disordered fatty acid metabolism and oxidative stress that occurs in AUD. The multiple possible therapeutic effects carnitine could have on ethanol metabolism and the early evidence available for carnitine supplementation as a treatment for AUD provide a foundation for future randomized control trials of carnitine for treating AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Brianne Bota
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Alicia DiBattista
- Newborn Screening Ontario, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Kumanan Wilson
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Bruyere Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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10
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Nie LJ, Liang J, Shan F, Wang BS, Mu YY, Zhou XH, Xia QR. L-Carnitine and Acetyl-L-Carnitine: Potential Novel Biomarkers for Major Depressive Disorder. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:671151. [PMID: 34658942 PMCID: PMC8514700 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.671151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The lack of biomarkers greatly limits the diagnosis and treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). Endogenous L-carnitine (LC) and its derivative acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) play antidepressant roles by improving brain energy metabolism, regulating neurotransmitters and neural plasticity. The levels of ALC in people and rodents with depression are significantly reduced. It is necessary to determine whether serum LC and ALC might be used as novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of MDD. Here, ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) was used to determine the concentration of LC and ALC in the serum of healthy controls and patients with MDD; among the latter, in patients who were responsive (effective group) and non-responsive (ineffective group) after 2 weeks of treatment. The diagnostic value of serum LC and ALC for MDD was assessed. Compared with healthy controls, the serum LC and ALC concentrations in patients with MDD were significantly decreased (P < 0.001). Pearson correlation analysis shows that the HDRS-24 score was negatively associated with serum ALC (r = -0.325, P = 0.007). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.801 with 83.1% sensitivity and 66.3% specificity for LC, and an AUC of 0.898 with 88.8% sensitivity and 76.4% specificity for ALC, differentiating patients with MDD from healthy controls. Furthermore, the concentration of LC and ALC in patients with depression was significantly increased in the effective treatment group, and no significant change was observed in the ineffective treatment group. These results suggest that serum LC and ALC may be novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Juan Nie
- Affiliated Psychological Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Hefei Fourth People's Hospital, Hefei, China.,Psychopharmacology Research Laboratory, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China.,Anhui Clinical Research Center for Mental Diseases, Hefei, China
| | - Jun Liang
- Affiliated Psychological Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Hefei Fourth People's Hospital, Hefei, China.,Psychopharmacology Research Laboratory, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China.,Anhui Clinical Research Center for Mental Diseases, Hefei, China
| | - Feng Shan
- Affiliated Psychological Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Hefei Fourth People's Hospital, Hefei, China.,Psychopharmacology Research Laboratory, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China.,Anhui Clinical Research Center for Mental Diseases, Hefei, China
| | - Bao-Shi Wang
- Affiliated Psychological Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Hefei Fourth People's Hospital, Hefei, China.,Psychopharmacology Research Laboratory, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China.,Anhui Clinical Research Center for Mental Diseases, Hefei, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Mu
- Affiliated Psychological Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Hefei Fourth People's Hospital, Hefei, China.,Psychopharmacology Research Laboratory, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China.,Anhui Clinical Research Center for Mental Diseases, Hefei, China
| | - Xie-Hai Zhou
- Affiliated Psychological Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Hefei Fourth People's Hospital, Hefei, China.,Psychopharmacology Research Laboratory, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China.,Anhui Clinical Research Center for Mental Diseases, Hefei, China
| | - Qing-Rong Xia
- Affiliated Psychological Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Hefei Fourth People's Hospital, Hefei, China.,Psychopharmacology Research Laboratory, Anhui Mental Health Center, Hefei, China.,Anhui Clinical Research Center for Mental Diseases, Hefei, China
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11
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Petit G, Deschietere G, Loas G, Luminet O, de Timary P. Link Between Anhedonia and Depression During Early Alcohol Abstinence: Gender Matters. Alcohol Alcohol 2020; 55:71-77. [PMID: 31825493 DOI: 10.1093/alcalc/agz090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relation between anhedonia and depression in alcohol use disorders (AUD) during detoxification: Is trait anhedonia measured at the beginning of detoxification predictive of depressive symptoms observed at the end? Does state anhedonia recover during detoxification as depression does? Gender differences that have been previously observed for depression in AUD were also explored. METHODS 81 AUD inpatients were tested at T1 (day 1) and T2 (day 14-18) of withdrawal with the trait Physical Anhedonia Scale, the state anhedonia Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale, the Beck depression inventory and the Spielberger State Anxiety Inventory and compared to 34 control participants, matched for age and gender. RESULTS AUD patients scored significantly higher than controls on depression, anxiety and state and trait anhedonia when they just entered the detoxification unit. Depression, anxiety and state anhedonia decreased between T1 and T2 in AUD patients. In women, state anhedonia at T1 was predictive of depressive symptoms at T2 over and above anxiety and depression at T1. CONCLUSION In AUD, state anhedonia recovers during detoxification, concurrently to other affective-related symptoms. However, in women, trait anhedonia predicts the level of depression at the end of detoxification, above and beyond anxiety. This finding stresses the importance of addressing anhedonia in the treatment of AUD and emphasizes the need for targeted interventions within clinical settings in this gender. Clinical consequences are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Petit
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, Brussels, Belgium.,Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 53, boîte B1.53.02, 1200, Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - G Deschietere
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, Brussels, Belgium.,Institut of Health and Society (IRSS-UCLouvain), Clos Chapelle-aux-champs,30 bte 30.15 - 1200 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - G Loas
- Department of Psychiatry & Laboratory of Psychiatric Research (ULB), Cliniques Universitaires de Bruxelles, Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik 808, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - O Luminet
- Research Institute for Psychological Sciences, Université catholique de Louvain, Voie du Roman Pays 20, bte L1.04.01 B-1348 Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - P de Timary
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate, 10, Brussels, Belgium.,Institute of Neuroscience, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 53, boîte B1.53.02, 1200, Bruxelles, Belgium.,Laboratory for Experimental Psychopathology (LEP), Psychological Science Research Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Voie du Roman Pays 20, bte L1.04.01 B-1348 Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
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12
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Predicting relapse after alcohol use disorder treatment in a high-risk cohort: The roles of anhedonia and smoking. J Psychiatr Res 2020; 126:1-7. [PMID: 32403028 PMCID: PMC8476113 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
On average, two-thirds of individuals treated for alcohol use disorder (AUD) relapse within six months. There is a critical need to identify modifiable risk factors associated with relapse that can be addressed during AUD treatment. Candidate factors include mood disorders and cigarette smoking, which frequently co-occur with AUD. We predicted that co-occurrence of mood disorders, cigarette smoking, and other modifiable conditions will predict relapse within six months of AUD treatment. Ninety-five Veterans, 23-91 years old, completed assessments of multiple characteristics including demographic information, co-occurring psychiatric disorders, and medical conditions during residential treatment for AUD. Participants' alcohol consumption was monitored over six months after participation. Logistic regression was used to determine if, mood disorders, cigarette smoking status, alcohol consumption, educational level, and comorbid general medical conditions are associated with relapse after AUD treatment. Sixty-nine percent of Veterans (n = 66) relapsed within six months of study while 31% remained abstinent (n = 29). While education, comorbid general medical conditions, and mood disorder diagnoses were not predictors of relapse, Veterans with greater symptoms of anhedonia, active smokers, and fewer days of abstinence prior to treatment showed significantly greater odds for relapse within six months. Anhedonia and cigarette smoking are modifiable risk factors, and effective treatment of underlying anhedonic symptoms and implementation of smoking cessation concurrent with AUD-focused interventions may decrease risk of relapse.
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13
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The role of acetyl-L-carnitine (LAC) in the treatment of mental disorders. CURRENT PROBLEMS OF PSYCHIATRY 2020. [DOI: 10.2478/cpp-2019-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: Currently, there are no fully reliable biomarkers to identify individuals suffering from depression, and conventional antidepressant treatment has its limitations. The potential influence of acetyl-L-carnitine (LAC) on the treatment of mental disorders, including depressive disorders, was noted already in the 1980s.
Goal and method: The literature on the role of LAC in the treatment of mental disorders, in particular depressive disorders, was reviewed using the Google Scholar and Pub Med databases. Two lines of research were considered:
1
the role of LAC in the therapy of various mental disorders and
2
the role of LAC in the treatment of depression and dysthymia
Conclusions: Because LAC is safe to use and has a very good tolerance profile, authors have explored its role in the treatment of many neurological and psychiatric diseases. There are studies showing that LAC supplementation has a positive effect on ADHD treatment outcomes in boys diagnosed with fragile X syndrome and plays a role in the treatment of dementia. Research has also been conducted on the impact of LAC on the treatment of depressive and dysthymic disorders. Positive outcomes of such therapy have been reported. An important correlation has been observed between LAC concentrations and the severity and onset of depressive symptoms. For instance, reduced levels of LAC have been found in people with treatment-refractory depression. It has also been proposed that LAC could decrease vulnerability to depression.
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14
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Krystal AD, Pizzagalli DA, Smoski M, Mathew SJ, Nurnberger J, Lisanby SH, Iosifescu D, Murrough JW, Yang H, Weiner RD, Calabrese JR, Sanacora G, Hermes G, Keefe RSE, Song A, Goodman W, Szabo ST, Whitton AE, Gao K, Potter WZ. A randomized proof-of-mechanism trial applying the 'fast-fail' approach to evaluating κ-opioid antagonism as a treatment for anhedonia. Nat Med 2020; 26:760-768. [PMID: 32231295 PMCID: PMC9949770 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-020-0806-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) 'fast-fail' approach seeks to improve too-often-misleading early-phase drug development methods by incorporating biomarker-based proof-of-mechanism (POM) testing in phase 2a. This first comprehensive application of the fast-fail approach evaluated the potential of κ-opioid receptor (KOR) antagonism for treating anhedonia with a POM study determining whether robust target engagement favorably impacts the brain circuitry hypothesized to mediate clinical effects. Here we report the results from a multicenter, 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial in patients with anhedonia and a mood or anxiety disorder (selective KOR antagonist (JNJ-67953964, 10 mg; n = 45) and placebo (n = 44)). JNJ-67953964 significantly increased functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) ventral striatum activation during reward anticipation (primary outcome) as compared to placebo (baseline-adjusted mean: JNJ-67953964, 0.72 (s.d. = 0.67); placebo, 0.33 (s.d. = 0.68); F(1,86) = 5.58, P < 0.01; effect size = 0.58 (95% confidence interval, 0.13-0.99)). JNJ-67953964, generally well tolerated, was not associated with any serious adverse events. This study supports proceeding with assessment of the clinical impact of target engagement and serves as a model for implementing the 'fast-fail' approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D. Krystal
- University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA,Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC,Address Correspondence to: Andrew D. Krystal, MD, MS, Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, Box 0984-F, 401 Parnassus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94143-0984, , 415-823-3227
| | | | | | - Sanjay J. Mathew
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX;,Michael E. Debakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX
| | | | | | - Dan Iosifescu
- New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Allen Song
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | | | - Steven T. Szabo
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC,Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, NC
| | - Alexis E. Whitton
- McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont MA,The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Keming Gao
- Case Western Reserve School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH
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15
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Yang X, Wang D, Liu S, Liu G, Harrison P. Trajectories of state anhedonia and recent changes in anhedonia in college students: Associations with other psychiatric syndromes. J Affect Disord 2020; 262:337-343. [PMID: 31735407 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent works suggest recent changes in anhedonia may be specifically predictive of key elements of psychopathology. The present study aimed to identify the trajectories of state anhedonia and recent changes in anhedonia, and to investigate their associations with other psychiatric syndromes over time. METHODS A total of 859 college students were assessed at three time points. State anhedonia was assessed using the Snaith Hamilton Pleasure Scale and recent changes in anhedonia were assessed with a subscale extracted from the Symptom Check-List-90. The Latent Growth Curve Modelling analysis was used to analyze trajectories. Associations with anhedonia were investigated with logistic regression models. RESULTS Three state anhedonia trajectories and two recent changes in anhedonia trajectories were identified. The decreasing trajectory was the most prevalent class in both two types of anhedonia. Depression and suicidal ideation predicted recent changes in anhedonia whereas other psychiatric syndromes predicted state anhedonia. CONCLUSIONS The current study highlighted the development trajectories of different measures of anhedonia. The results showed that the relationships between anhedonia and psychiatric syndromes were different according to the kind of anhedonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhua Yang
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Education, Hunan Agricultural University, No. 1 Nongda Road, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China.
| | - Dongfang Wang
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Education, Hunan Agricultural University, No. 1 Nongda Road, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China.
| | - Sixun Liu
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Education, Hunan Agricultural University, No. 1 Nongda Road, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China.
| | - Guangya Liu
- Department of psychiatry, Brains Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Phillippa Harrison
- Centre for Affective Disorders, Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
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16
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Cherix A, Larrieu T, Grosse J, Rodrigues J, McEwen B, Nasca C, Gruetter R, Sandi C. Metabolic signature in nucleus accumbens for anti-depressant-like effects of acetyl-L-carnitine. eLife 2020; 9:50631. [PMID: 31922486 PMCID: PMC6970538 DOI: 10.7554/elife.50631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that hierarchical status provides vulnerability to develop stress-induced depression. Energy metabolic changes in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) were recently related to hierarchical status and vulnerability to develop depression-like behavior. Acetyl-L-carnitine (LAC), a mitochondria-boosting supplement, has shown promising antidepressant-like effects opening therapeutic opportunities for restoring energy balance in depressed patients. We investigated the metabolic impact in the NAc of antidepressant LAC treatment in chronically-stressed mice using 1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS). High rank, but not low rank, mice, as assessed with the tube test, showed behavioral vulnerability to stress, supporting a higher susceptibility of high social rank mice to develop depressive-like behaviors. High rank mice also showed reduced levels of several energy-related metabolites in the NAc that were counteracted by LAC treatment. Therefore, we reveal a metabolic signature in the NAc for antidepressant-like effects of LAC in vulnerable mice characterized by restoration of stress-induced neuroenergetics alterations and lipid function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Cherix
- Laboratory for Functional and Metabolic Imaging (LIFMET), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Larrieu
- Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics, Brain and Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jocelyn Grosse
- Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics, Brain and Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - João Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics, Brain and Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bruce McEwen
- Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Carla Nasca
- Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, New York, United States
| | - Rolf Gruetter
- Laboratory for Functional and Metabolic Imaging (LIFMET), École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Carmen Sandi
- Laboratory of Behavioral Genetics, Brain and Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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17
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Kępka A, Zwierz P, Chojnowska S, Ochocińska A, Skorupa E, Szczepański M, Szajda SD, Waszkiewicz N. Relation of plasma carnitine and aminotransferases to alcohol dose and time of dependence. Alcohol 2019; 81:62-69. [PMID: 31029632 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2019.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Serum aspartate, alanine aminotransferases (AST, ALT), and plasma carnitine are all indirect biomarkers of alcohol abuse. Carnitine transfers long-chain fatty acids from cytoplasm to mitochondria for β-oxidation. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between daily alcohol intake, time of alcohol dependence, plasma carnitine, and serum aminotransferases. PATIENTS We studied 26 men who were addicted for 2-30 years, consuming ethanol from 75 to 700 g/day (alcoholic group), as well as 17 healthy men (control group). RESULTS In alcoholics, compared to the controls, we found: a significant increase in serum: AST (p = 0.0014), ALT (p = 0.0071), AST/ALT ratio (p < 0.000); significantly lower plasma free carnitine (FC) (p = 0.0316) and total carnitine (TC) (p = 0.0349); and a significant negative correlation between FC (r = -0.6200; R2 = 0.3844; p = 0.0007), TC (r = -0.4365; R2 = 0.1905; p = 0.0258), and time of alcohol dependence, suggesting carnitine as an indirect marker of alcohol abuse. We did not find any significant correlation between FC, TC, and levels of alcohol or aminotransferase activity. CONCLUSION In the alcoholic group, there was an increase in serum activity of AST, ALT, and AST/ALT ratio that confirms liver injury. In addition, we found low plasma FC and TC, which may indicate damage to mitochondrial β-oxidation caused by alcohol metabolites. The significantly higher plasma FC and TC in patients consuming the most, compared to patients consuming smaller doses of alcohol, may be caused by a lower carnitine demand of injured liver cells, decreased urinary carnitine excretion by impaired renal tubules, and leakage of carnitine into the blood from damaged muscles by the higher quantities of alcohol. The negative correlation between carnitine concentration and time of alcohol dependence may suggest the potential use of carnitine for treatment of alcohol abuse.
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18
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Fusar-Poli L, Surace T, Vanella A, Meo V, Patania F, Furnari R, Signorelli MS, Aguglia E. The effect of adjunctive nutraceuticals in bipolar disorder: A systematic review of randomized placebo-controlled trials. J Affect Disord 2019; 252:334-349. [PMID: 30999090 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nutraceuticals are a group of compounds of growing interest for mental health professionals. Given the implication of certain nutrients in the onset of bipolar disorder, it has been hypothesized that nutraceuticals might be effective in improving symptoms of the condition (i.e. mania or depression). Our systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of adjunctive nutraceuticals compared to placebo. METHODS We searched the following databases from inception to February 2019: Web of Science, CINAHL, Embase, and PsycINFO. We included only original randomized controlled trials written in English, testing the efficacy of nutraceuticals in add-on to standard care, compared to placebo, in patients with bipolar disorder. RESULTS After identifying 6584 potentially relevant publications, we finally included 25 studies, among which six used fatty acids, seven micronutrients, seven amino acids. One study tested probiotics, while in four trials a combination of different types of nutraceuticals was used. Even if some compounds have shown promising results (i.e. fatty acids and N-acetyl cysteine for depression, amino acid drinks and folic acid for mania), the majority of nutraceuticals did not cause significant improvements in comparison to placebo. LIMITATIONS We could not perform a meta-analysis due to the high heterogeneity of trials, which were also affected by some methodological caveats. CONCLUSIONS Evidence regarding the efficacy of adjunctive nutraceuticals in bipolar disorder is inconsistent. Nevertheless, they appear generally free from relevant side effects. Well-designed trials are needed to further explore the potential role of nutraceuticals in different mood episodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fusar-Poli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Italy; U.O.C. Clinica Psichiatrica, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, Presidio "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy.
| | - Teresa Surace
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Italy; U.O.C. Clinica Psichiatrica, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, Presidio "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Vanella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Italy; U.O.C. Clinica Psichiatrica, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, Presidio "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - Valeria Meo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Italy; U.O.C. Clinica Psichiatrica, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, Presidio "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Patania
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Italy; U.O.C. Clinica Psichiatrica, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, Presidio "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - Rosaria Furnari
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Italy; U.O.C. Clinica Psichiatrica, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, Presidio "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Salvina Signorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Italy; U.O.C. Clinica Psichiatrica, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, Presidio "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
| | - Eugenio Aguglia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Italy; U.O.C. Clinica Psichiatrica, A.O.U. Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele, Presidio "G. Rodolico", Catania, Italy
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Acetyl-L-Carnitine Supplementation and the Treatment of Depressive Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Psychosom Med 2019; 80:154-159. [PMID: 29076953 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000000537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Deficiency of acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) seems to play a role in the risk of developing depression, indicating a dysregulation of fatty acid transport across the inner membrane of mitochondria. However, data about ALC supplementation in humans are limited. We thus conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis investigating the effect of ALC on depressive symptoms across randomized controlled trials (RCTs). METHODS A literature search in major databases, without language restriction, was undertaken from inception until 30 December 2016. Eligible studies were RCTs of ALC alone or in combination with antidepressant medications, with a control group taking placebo/no intervention or antidepressants. Standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used for summarizing outcomes with a random-effect model. RESULTS Twelve RCTs (11 of which were ALC monotherapy) with a total of 791 participants (mean age = 54 years, % female = 65%) were included. Pooled data across nine RCTs (231 treated with ALC versus 216 treated with placebo and 20 no intervention) showed that ALC significantly reduced depressive symptoms (SMD = -1.10, 95% CI = -1.65 to -0.56, I = 86%). In three RCTs comparing ALC versus antidepressants (162 for each group), ALC demonstrated similar effectiveness compared with established antidepressants in reducing depressive symptoms (SMD = 0.06, 95% CI = -0.22 to 0.34, I = 31%). In these latter RCTs, the incidence of adverse effects was significantly lower in the ALC group than in the antidepressant group. Subgroup analyses suggested that ALC was most efficacious in older adults. CONCLUSIONS ALC supplementation significantly decreases depressive symptoms compared with placebo/no intervention, while offering a comparable effect with that of established antidepressant agents with fewer adverse effects. Future large scale trials are required to confirm/refute these findings.
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Lubman DI, Garfield JB, Gwini SM, Cheetham A, Cotton SM, Yücel M, Allen NB. Dynamic associations between opioid use and anhedonia: A longitudinal study in opioid dependence. J Psychopharmacol 2018; 32:957-964. [PMID: 30130143 DOI: 10.1177/0269881118791741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anhedonia is a commonly reported symptom among substance-dependent populations that appears to diminish with sustained abstinence. However, previous research has not determined whether anhedonia is dynamically linked to changing patterns of drug use, nor whether it predicts subsequent drug use. AIMS We aimed to test whether changes in illicit opioid use would predict changes in anhedonia, and whether increases in anhedonia would predict further opioid use. METHODS We conducted a longitudinal, observational study, with a convenience sample of 121 participants with current or past-year Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) opioid dependence recruited from substance use treatment and related services and from pharmacies administering opioid substitution pharmacotherapy. Anhedonia was assessed with the Temporal Experience of Pleasure Scale and frequency of illicit opioid use was assessed using timeline follow-back interviews. RESULTS There was a significant within-subject effect (β=-0.015; 95% CI -0.02 to -0.01; p=0.001), indicating that participants' Temporal Experience of Pleasure Scale scores typically declined (i.e. anhedonia increased) following a month with above-average opioid use and Temporal Experience of Pleasure Scale scores rose (i.e. anhedonia reduced) following a month with below-average opioid use. However, Temporal Experience of Pleasure Scale scores did not significantly predict opioid use in the subsequent month (β=-0.04, 95% CI -0.20 to 0.12; p=0.651). CONCLUSIONS Changes in illicit opioid use predict self-reported anhedonia, suggesting a possible causal relationship whereby anhedonia is likely to worsen with frequent drug use and diminish with prolonged abstinence. However, anhedonia does not appear to drive further drug use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan I Lubman
- 1 Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,2 Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Joshua Bb Garfield
- 1 Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,2 Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stella M Gwini
- 3 Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ali Cheetham
- 1 Turning Point, Eastern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sue M Cotton
- 4 Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,5 Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Murat Yücel
- 6 Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Abstract
Depression remains difficult to manage, despite the many registered treatments available. For many depressed individuals, particularly those who have not responded to and/or had adverse effects from standard therapies, herbal and natural medications represent a potentially valuable alternative. This chapter will review several natural remedies used in the treatment of depression. Specific remedies covered include St. John's wort (SJW), S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe), omega-3 fatty acids, rhodiola, and others. We will begin by providing some historical and social context about these remedies. Then we will review efficacy and safety data, as well as biological mechanisms of action of these therapies. Finally, we will discuss the limitations of the current state of knowledge and provide suggestions for a productive research agenda focused on natural remedies. While many questions about these treatments remain unanswered and much work needs to be done before we determine their place in the psychiatric armamentarium, we believe that this chapter will give psychiatrists a good perspective on the pros and cons of herbal and natural antidepressants as part of the pharmacological armamentarium and sensible guidelines on how and when they should be used.
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Garfield JBB, Cotton SM, Allen NB, Cheetham A, Kras M, Yücel M, Lubman DI. Evidence that anhedonia is a symptom of opioid dependence associated with recent use. Drug Alcohol Depend 2017; 177:29-38. [PMID: 28551591 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2016] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anhedonia is prevalent among substance-dependent populations. The hedonic allostasis model suggests this is due to the effects of addictive substances on neural substrates of reward processing. However, previous research may have been confounded by other factors likely to influence anhedonia, including tobacco use, psychopathology, and history of trauma and other stressors. Thus it remains unclear whether elevated anhedonia in substance-dependent populations is caused by substance use itself, or is due to other correlates of substance dependence. METHODS Multivariate analysis of covariance was conducted to test whether opioid-dependent participants' anhedonia scores were elevated, relative to a non-dependent control group, after controlling for psychosocial factors likely to influence anhedonia. Correlational analyses within opioid-dependent participants were also conducted to examine whether anhedonia was associated with recent illicit opioid use or duration of abstinence. RESULTS There was a modest, but significant, elevation in anhedonia in opioid-dependent participants, relative to controls (Partial η2=0.034, p=0.041) after controlling for psychosocial variables that were associated with anhedonia. Depressive symptoms and history of post-traumatic stress disorder also remained significantly associated with anhedonia in the adjusted model. Among participants on opioid pharmacotherapy, there were significant associations between frequency of recent illicit opioid use and scores on anhedonia measures (all rs>0.25, p<0.013), but among abstinent opioid-dependent participants, relationships between duration of abstinence and anhedonia were not significant (all rs<0.24, p>0.22). CONCLUSION These findings support the hypothesis that use of opioids can cause anhedonia, although other psychosocial factors may also contribute to the high prevalence of anhedonia among opioid-dependent populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua B B Garfield
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences, Monash University, Level 2,5 Arnold Street, Box Hill, Victoria, 3128, Australia; Turning Point, Eastern Health, 54-62 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, Victoria, 3065, Australia.
| | - Sue M Cotton
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, 35 Poplar Road, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, 35 Poplar Road, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
| | - Nicholas B Allen
- School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia; Department of Psychology, 1227 University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, USA.
| | - Ali Cheetham
- Turning Point, Eastern Health, 54-62 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, Victoria, 3065, Australia.
| | - Marni Kras
- Brain and Mental Health Laboratory, Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
| | - Murat Yücel
- Brain and Mental Health Laboratory, Monash Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
| | - Dan I Lubman
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences, Monash University, Level 2,5 Arnold Street, Box Hill, Victoria, 3128, Australia; Turning Point, Eastern Health, 54-62 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, Victoria, 3065, Australia.
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Nalmefene in Alcohol Use Disorder Subjects with Psychiatric Comorbidity: A Naturalistic Study. Adv Ther 2017; 34:1636-1649. [PMID: 28540656 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-017-0546-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Nalmefene is the first drug to be approved for reducing alcohol consumption in alcohol use disorder (AUD) patients at high drinking risk. In real-world settings, there is a high prevalence of concurrent psychiatric disorders in AUD subjects, with associated increased morbidity and worse prognosis. This study evaluated the use of nalmefene in AUD patients with stabilized psychiatric comorbidity previously treated unsuccessfully for alcohol dependence, and assessed craving reduction and safety. METHODS Sixty-five AUD outpatients treated with as-needed 18 mg nalmefene for 24 weeks were included. Primary outcome measures were: changes in heavy drinking days (HDDs) and total alcohol consumption (TAC, g/day). Secondary outcome measures were: changes in drinking risk level and craving (obsessive-compulsive drinking scale and visual analogue scale for craving). RESULTS Forty-two AUD subjects (64.6%) had one or more stabilized psychiatric comorbidity. There was a significant reduction in HDDs, TAC and craving measures (p < 0.001), with no differences between subjects with and without psychiatric comorbidity. Nalmefene was safe and well tolerated in all patients. CONCLUSION As-needed nalmefene reduced drinking and craving in AUD subjects with and without psychiatric comorbidity. These findings suggest that nalmefene is a valid therapeutic option in real-world clinical settings, where comorbid conditions are common, and has the potential to engage AUD patients who may otherwise not have sought help. FUNDING Lundbeck Italia S.P.A.
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Chen N, Yang M, Zhou M, Xiao J, Guo J, He L. L-carnitine for cognitive enhancement in people without cognitive impairment. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 3:CD009374. [PMID: 28349514 PMCID: PMC6464592 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009374.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Safe interventions to enhance cognitive function in cognitively healthy people would be very valuable for several reasons, including a better quality of life and professional success. While L-carnitine has been reported to enhance cognitive function in some conditions, its efficacy is disputed. The evidence of its efficacy for cognitively healthy people has not previously been systematically reviewed. OBJECTIVES To assess the efficacy and safety of L-carnitine for the enhancement of cognitive function in people without cognitive impairment. SEARCH METHODS We searched ALOIS, the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group's Specialized Register, on 4 November 2016. We used the search terms 'L-carnitine' or 'acetyl-L-carnitine' or 'propionyl-L-carnitine' or 'ALC' or 'PLC' or 'ALCAR' or 'ALPAR'. We ran additional separate searches in several other sources to ensure that we retrieved the most up-to-date results. We also reviewed the bibliographies of the randomised controlled trials identified and contacted the authors and known experts in the field and pharmaceutical companies to identify additional published or unpublished data. SELECTION CRITERIA Eligible trials were randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs, parallel-group or cross-over, that compared L-carnitine or its derivatives, acetyl-L-carnitine or propionyl-L-carnitine, at any dose and for any length of treatment, with placebo or no treatment in cognitively healthy people of any age and either gender. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. Two review authors independently selected trials and evaluated the methodological quality, then extracted and analysed data from the included trials. MAIN RESULTS Only two RCTs were eligible. One was a cross-over trial with 18 participants. The other randomised 400 participants to one of four treatments, of which two (L-carnitine and placebo) were relevant to this review, but the exact numbers of participants in these two treatment groups was not reported. All participants were young adults. Methodological details were poorly reported, and we considered the risk of bias in both studies to be unclear. The trials assessed different cognitive outcomes. We could extract cognitive data on approximately 200 participants from one trial. We found no evidence that L-carnitine has any effect on reaction time, vigilance, immediate memory, or delayed recall after three days of treatment. This trial report stated that there was a small number of adverse effects, none of which were serious. The small cross-over trial also reported no effect of L-carnitine on cognition, but did not provide data; no information was provided on adverse effects. We considered the available evidence to be of very low quality for all reported outcomes. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Due to the limited number of included trials, short-term treatment, and inadequate reporting, we were unable to draw any conclusions about the efficacy or safety of L-carnitine for cognitive enhancement in healthy adults. Well-designed, randomised, placebo-controlled trials of L-carnitine for cognition enhancement in cognitively healthy people, with large samples and relatively long-term follow-up, are still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Chen
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of NeurologyNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduSichuanChina610041
| | - Mi Yang
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of NeurologyNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduSichuanChina610041
| | - Muke Zhou
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of NeurologyNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduSichuanChina610041
| | - Jing Xiao
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of NeurologyNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduSichuanChina610041
| | - Jian Guo
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of NeurologyNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduSichuanChina610041
| | - Li He
- West China Hospital, Sichuan UniversityDepartment of NeurologyNo. 37, Guo Xue XiangChengduSichuanChina610041
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Acetyl-l-Carnitine Augmentation of Clozapine in Partial-Responder Schizophrenia: A 12-Week, Open-Label Uncontrolled Preliminary Study. Clin Neuropharmacol 2016; 39:277-280. [DOI: 10.1097/wnf.0000000000000170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Huhn AS, Meyer RE, Harris JD, Ayaz H, Deneke E, Stankoski DM, Bunce SC. Evidence of anhedonia and differential reward processing in prefrontal cortex among post-withdrawal patients with prescription opiate dependence. Brain Res Bull 2016; 123:102-9. [PMID: 26711857 PMCID: PMC4893930 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2015.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2015] [Revised: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Anhedonia is an important but understudied element of a neuroadaptive model underlying vulnerability to relapse in opioid dependence. Previous research using fMRI has shown reduced activation to pleasant stimuli in rostral prefrontal cortex among heroin-dependent patients in early recovery. This study evaluated the presence of anhedonia among recently withdrawn prescription opiate dependent patients (PODP) in residential treatment compared to control subjects. Anhedonia was assessed using self-report, affect-modulated startle response (AMSR), and a cue reactivity task during which participant's rostral prefrontal cortex (RPFC) and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC) was monitored with functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). The cue reactivity task included three distinct categories of natural reward stimuli: highly palatable food, positive social situations, and intimate (non-erotic) interactions. PODP reported greater anhedonia on self-report (Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale), and showed reduced hedonic response to positive stimuli in the AMSR task relative to controls. PODP also exhibited reduced neural activation in bilateral RPFC and left VLPFC in response to food images and reduced left VLPFC in response to images depicting positive social situations relative to controls. No differences were found for emotionally intimate stimuli. When patients were divided into groups based on the Snaith-Hamilton criteria for the presence or absence of anhedonia, patients endorsing anhedonia showed reduced neural responses to images depicting positive social stimuli and food relative to patients who did not endorse anhedonia. Activations were in areas of RPFC that support the retrieval of episodic memories. The results suggest the presence of anhedonia in a subsample of PODP.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Huhn
- Department of Psychiatry, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - R E Meyer
- Department of Psychiatry, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - J D Harris
- Department of Psychiatry, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - H Ayaz
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - E Deneke
- Caron Treatment Centers, Wernersville, PA, United States
| | - D M Stankoski
- Department of Psychiatry, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - S C Bunce
- Department of Psychiatry, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States; School of Biomedical Engineering, Science and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
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Martinotti G, Orsolini L, Fornaro M, Vecchiotti R, De Berardis D, Iasevoli F, Torrens M, Di Giannantonio M. Aripiprazole for relapse prevention and craving in alcohol use disorder: current evidence and future perspectives. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2016; 25:719-28. [DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2016.1175431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Garfield JBB, Allen NB, Cheetham A, Simmons JG, Lubman DI. Attention to pleasant stimuli in early adolescence predicts alcohol-related problems in mid-adolescence. Biol Psychol 2015; 108:43-50. [PMID: 25818044 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2015.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Revised: 03/08/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Attenuated responses to natural rewards have been found to predict subsequent substance use among dependent populations, suggesting that this may be a premorbid risk factor for later problematic substance use. However, research on adolescent risk-taking suggests that exaggerated, rather than blunted, reward responsiveness predicts later substance abuse. Acoustic startle-induced event-related potentials (ERP) were recorded in a sample of 11-13 year-olds while they viewed affective pictures, and participants were reassessed four years later regarding alcohol use and experience of alcohol-related problems. Increased attenuation of the amplitude of the P300 component of the ERP during viewing of pleasant pictures, relative to amplitude during neutral pictures (an indicator of increased attention to pleasant pictures), predicted increased likelihood of alcohol-related problems at follow-up. These findings further support research indicating that increased reward responsiveness predicts risky behaviours in adolescence, with anhedonia primarily a consequence of substance dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua B B Garfield
- Turning Point, Eastern Health and Monash University, 54-62 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia.
| | - Nicholas B Allen
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; Orygen Youth Health Research Centre, Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; Department of Psychology, University of Oregon, Eugene, USA.
| | - Ali Cheetham
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Julian G Simmons
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.
| | - Dan I Lubman
- Turning Point, Eastern Health and Monash University, 54-62 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy, VIC 3065, Australia.
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Mostafa GA, Al-Ayadhi LY. Reduced levels of plasma polyunsaturated fatty acids and serum carnitine in autistic children: relation to gastrointestinal manifestations. Behav Brain Funct 2015; 11:4. [PMID: 25757041 PMCID: PMC4332725 DOI: 10.1186/s12993-014-0048-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations are common in autistic children. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and carnitine are anti-inflammatory molecules and their deficiency may result in GI inflammation. The relationship between the increased frequency of GI manifestations and reduced levels of PUFAs and carnitine was not previously investigated in autistic patients. This study was the first to investigate plasma levels of PUFAs and serum carnitine in relation to GI manifestations in autistic children. METHODS Plasma levels of PUFAs (including linoleic, alphalinolenic, arachidonic "AA" and docosahexaenoic "DHA" acids) and serum carnitine were measured in 100 autistic children and 100 healthy-matched children. RESULTS Reduced levels of serum carnitine and plasma DHA, AA, linolenic and linoleic acids were found in 66%, 62%, 60%, 43% and 38%, respectively of autistic children. On the other hand, 54% of autistic patients had elevated ω6/ω3 ratio. Autistic patients with GI manifestations (48%) had significantly decreased levels of serum carnitine and plasma DHA than patients without such manifestations. In addition, autistic patients with GI manifestations had significantly increased percentage of reduced serum carnitine (91.7%) and plasma DHA levels (87.5%) than patients without such manifestations (42.3% and 38.5%, respectively), (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Reduced levels of plasma DHA and serum carnitine levels may be associated with the GI problems in some autistic patients. However, this is an initial report, studies are recommended to invesigate whether reduced levels of carnitine and DHA are a mere association or have a pathogenic role in GI problems in autistic patients.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Topiramate (TOP) and anticonvulsants in general are considered safe and effective drugs for the treatment of alcohol dependence, even though TOP-induced adverse events are quite common, especially for high initial doses or if titration to 300 mg/d is too rapid. The aim of the present study was to assess the efficacy and tolerability profile of low-dose TOP for relapse prevention. METHODS After detoxification, 52 patients were randomized into 2 groups as follows: 26 patients received 100 mg of TOP (oral, twice daily), titrated over 2 weeks, and 26 patients received placebo (PLA). Both groups underwent rehabilitation twice a week. RESULTS After 6 weeks of treatment, compared with the PLA group, patients receiving TOP showed the following: (1) fewer drinking days (P < 0.05); (2) less daily alcohol consumption (P < 0.05); (3) more days of treatment (P < 0.05); (4) reduced levels of craving (Obsessive-Compulsive Drinking Scale) and withdrawal symptoms (Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol-Revised); and (5) improvement of anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive symptom severity (Symptom Check List 90 Revised). CONCLUSIONS Despite the small sample size and the short follow-up period, the present PLA-controlled study demonstrated the potential usefulness of TOP, even when administered at a dosage of 100 mg/d, for the treatment of detoxified alcohol-dependent subjects, confirming results from previous studies testing higher doses of TOP.
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Obsessive-compulsive aspects and pathological gambling in an Italian sample. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:167438. [PMID: 25057479 PMCID: PMC4095731 DOI: 10.1155/2014/167438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Revised: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 06/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gambling behaviour appears as repetitive and difficult to resist and seems to be aimed at neutralizing or reducing negative feelings such as anxiety and tension, confirming its similarities with the obsessive-compulsive spectrum. Aims. Estimating the prevalence of gambling behaviour in an Italian sample and assessing the effects of sociodemographic variables and the correlations between gambling behaviour and obsessive-compulsive features. METHODS A sample of 300 Italian subjects was evaluated based on gambling behaviours and obsessive-compulsive attitudes. The assessment was carried out in small centers in Italy, mainly in coffee and tobacco shops, where slot machines are located, using the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS) and the MOCQ-R, a reduced form of Maudsley Obsessional-Compulsive Questionnaire. RESULTS A negative correlation between SOGS and MOPQ-R, with reference to the control and cleaning subscales, was evidenced in the majority of the examined subjects. Both evaluating instruments showed reliability and a good discriminative capacity. CONCLUSIONS Our study evidenced that the sample of gamblers we analysed did not belong to the obsessive-compulsive disorders area, supporting the validity of the model proposed by DSM-5 for the classification of PG. These data confirm the importance of investing in treatments similar to those used for substance use disorders.
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A review of current evidence for acetyl-l-carnitine in the treatment of depression. J Psychiatr Res 2014; 53:30-7. [PMID: 24607292 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2014.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Revised: 12/24/2013] [Accepted: 02/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Despite numerous antidepressants available, many patients with depression do not achieve adequate response rendering needs for novel antidepressants with different mechanism of actions. Acetyl-l-carnitine (ALC) is a potential antidepressant with novel mechanism of action because of its diverse functions related with neuroplasticity. Animal and cellular models suggest that ALC's neuroplasiticity effect, membrane modulation, and neurotransmitter regulation may play an important role in treatment of depression. Four randomized clinical studies (RCT) demonstrated the superior efficacy of ALC over placebo (PBO) in patients with depression. Two RCTs showed its superior efficacy over PBO in dysthymic disorder, and 2 other RCTs showed that it is equally effective as fluoxetine and amisulpride in treatment of dysthymic disorder. ALC was also effective in improving depressive symptoms in patients with fibromyalgia and minimal hepatic encephalopathy. It was also found to be equally tolerable to PBO and better tolerable than fluoxetine and amisulpride. In conclusion, ALC may be potentially effective and tolerable next treatment option with novel action mechanisms for patients with depression, in particular older population and patients with comorbid medical conditions who are vulnerable to adverse events from antidepressants. However, more clinical trial data with adequately-powered, well-designed and advanced methodology will be mandatory to conclude whether ALC as a monotherapy or augmentation agent may be efficacious and clinically beneficial for depression.
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Pettorruso M, Martinotti G, Fasano A, Loria G, Di Nicola M, De Risio L, Ricciardi L, Conte G, Janiri L, Bentivoglio AR. Anhedonia in Parkinson's disease patients with and without pathological gambling: a case-control study. Psychiatry Res 2014; 215:448-52. [PMID: 24373553 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2013.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2013] [Revised: 11/02/2013] [Accepted: 12/05/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Anhedonia is present in Parkinson's Disease (PD) as well as in addictive behaviors. Pathological Gambling (PG) and other Impulse Control Disorders (ICDs) have emerged as iatrogenic complications associated with dopamine replacement therapy. We studied 154 PD patients, divided into three groups: 11 with PG, 23 with other ICDs (compulsive buying, hypersexuality, binge eating), 120 without ICDs. All patients underwent a thorough clinical, neuropsychological and psychiatric evaluation. The PG-group, compared to the ICDs-group and PD-controls, reported a significantly higher incidence of anhedonia (45% vs. 9% vs. 14% respectively), higher Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale (SHAPS) scores (2.0±1.3 vs. 1.0±1.1 vs. 1.0±1.2), higher levels of impulsivity traits as measured by the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (70.0±10.6 vs. 64.8±11 vs. 60.9±9.3) and more severe frontal dysfunctions (Frontal Assessment Battery, FAB: 12.4±4.9 vs. 15.5±1.6 vs. 14.4±3). A model for PG (incorporating anhedonia, impulsivity levels and frontal impairment) is discussed in the context of the pathophysiology of addictive behaviors. The impairment of hedonic capacity, possibly resulting from an underlying neuropsychological dysfunction, might facilitate loss of control over reward-related behavior, thus favoring the shift towards predominantly habit-based compulsive behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Pettorruso
- Department of Psychiatry, Drug Addiction Unit, Catholic University of The Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Martinotti
- Department of Neurosciences and Imaging, University "G. D'Annunzio", Chieti, Italy
| | - Alfonso Fasano
- Movement Disorders Center, TWH, UHN, Division of Neurology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Giovanna Loria
- Department of Neurology, Movement Disorder Unit, Catholic University of The Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Di Nicola
- Department of Psychiatry, Drug Addiction Unit, Catholic University of The Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa De Risio
- Department of Psychiatry, Drug Addiction Unit, Catholic University of The Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Ricciardi
- Department of Neurology, Movement Disorder Unit, Catholic University of The Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Conte
- Department of Psychiatry, Drug Addiction Unit, Catholic University of The Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Janiri
- Department of Psychiatry, Drug Addiction Unit, Catholic University of The Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Bentivoglio
- Department of Neurology, Movement Disorder Unit, Catholic University of The Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
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Abstract
Alcohol dependence encompasses a serious medical and societal problem that constitutes a major public health concern. A serious consequence of dependence is the emergence of symptoms associated with the alcohol withdrawal syndrome when drinking is abruptly terminated or substantially reduced. Clinical features of alcohol withdrawal include signs of central nervous system hyperexcitability, heightened autonomic nervous system activation, and a constellation of symptoms contributing to psychologic discomfort and negative affect. The development of alcohol dependence is a complex and dynamic process that ultimately reflects a maladaptive neurophysiologic state. Perturbations in a wide range of neurochemical systems, including glutamate, γ-aminobutyric acid, monoamines, a host of neuropeptide systems, and various ion channels produced by the chronic presence of alcohol ultimately compromise the functional integrity of the brain. These neuroadaptations not only underlie the emergence and expression of many alcohol withdrawal symptoms, but also contribute to enhanced relapse vulnerability as well as perpetuation of uncontrolled excessive drinking. This chapter highlights the hallmark features of the alcohol withdrawal syndrome, and describes neuroadaptations in a wide array of neurotransmitter and neuromodulator systems (amino acid and monoamine neurotransmitter, neuropeptide systems, and various ion channels) as they relate to the expression of various signs and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, as well as their relationship to the significant clinical problem of relapse and uncontrolled dangerous drinking.
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Garfield JBB, Lubman DI, Yücel M. Anhedonia in substance use disorders: a systematic review of its nature, course and clinical correlates. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2014; 48:36-51. [PMID: 24270310 DOI: 10.1177/0004867413508455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is growing evidence that anhedonia is a commonly experienced symptom among substance-using populations. This systematic review synthesises findings across a range of substances to address questions regarding the time course of anhedonia, how anhedonia relates to other symptoms of substance dependence and whether it is similarly prevalent across all addictive drugs. METHOD A literature search was conducted on PubMed, PsycINFO and MEDLINE, yielding 32 studies that used self-report measures of anhedonia among participants with a history of a substance abuse, dependence or long-term daily use of addictive substances. RESULTS Findings from these studies indicate that anhedonia (1) is elevated in samples dependent on a range of substances; (2) typically appears as a consequence of substance abuse or dependence, and diminishes with abstinence; and (3) predicts increased drug cravings and the likelihood of relapse in those attempting abstinence. CONCLUSIONS The common experience of anhedonia in substance-dependent populations, and its relationship to relapse, emphasises the importance of developing therapeutic interventions that specifically target anhedonia in the treatment of all substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua B B Garfield
- 1Turning Point Alcohol & Drug Centre, Eastern Health and Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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A placebo-controlled trial of acetyl-L-carnitine and α-lipoic acid in the treatment of bipolar depression. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2013; 33:627-35. [PMID: 23948785 PMCID: PMC4699308 DOI: 10.1097/jcp.0b013e31829a83f5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bipolar disorder may be associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. Therefore, agents that enhance mitochondrial functioning may be efficacious in bipolar disorder. We performed a randomized placebo-controlled trial of the mitochondrial enhancers acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) and α-lipoic acid (ALA) in patients with bipolar depression, and assessed markers of cerebral energy metabolism using phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy. METHODS We administered ALCAR (1000-3000 mg daily) plus ALA (600-1800 mg daily) or placebo for 12 weeks to 40 patients with bipolar depression and obtained imaging data at baseline, week 1, and week 12 of treatment in 20 patients using phosphorus 3-dimensional chemical-shift imaging at 4 T. Statistical analysis used random effects mixed models. RESULTS We found no significant difference between ALCAR/ALA and placebo on change from baseline in the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale in both the longitudinal (mean difference [95% confidence interval], -1.4 [-6.2 to 3.4], P = 0.58) and last-observation-carried-forward (-3.2 [-7.2 to 0.9], P = 0.12) analyses. ALCAR/ALA treatment significantly reduced phosphocreatine levels in the parieto-occipital cortex at week 12 (P = 0.002). Reduction in whole brain total nucleoside triphosphate levels from baseline to week 1 was associated with reduction in Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale scores (P = 0.02) in patients treated with ALCAR/ALA. However, this was likely a chance finding attributable to multiple statistical comparisons. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with ALCAR and ALA at the dose and duration used in this study does not have antidepressant effects in depressed bipolar patients and does not significantly enhance mitochondrial functioning in this patient group.
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Ho N, Sommers M. Anhedonia: a concept analysis. Arch Psychiatr Nurs 2013; 27:121-9. [PMID: 23706888 PMCID: PMC3664836 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2013.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2012] [Revised: 02/05/2013] [Accepted: 02/08/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Anhedonia presents itself in a myriad of disease processes. To further develop our understanding of anhedonia and effective ways to manage it, the concept requires clear boundaries. This paper critically examined the current scientific literature and conducted a concept analysis of anhedonia to provide a more accurate and lucid understanding of the concept. As part of the concept analysis, this paper also provides model, borderline, related, and contrary examples of anhedonia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Ho
- School of Nursing, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Smeland OB, Meisingset TW, Borges K, Sonnewald U. Chronic acetyl-L-carnitine alters brain energy metabolism and increases noradrenaline and serotonin content in healthy mice. Neurochem Int 2012; 61:100-7. [PMID: 22549035 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2012.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2012] [Revised: 04/10/2012] [Accepted: 04/10/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR), the short-chain ester of carnitine, is a common dietary supplement readily available in health food stores, claimed to improve energy levels and muscle strength. ALCAR has numerous effects on brain and muscle metabolism, protects against neurotoxic insults and may be an effective treatment for certain forms of depression. However, little is known about the effect of chronic ALCAR supplementation on the brain metabolism of healthy mice. Here, we investigated ALCAR's effect on cerebral energy and neurotransmitter metabolism after supplementing the drinking water of mice with ALCAR for 25 days, providing a daily dose of about 0.5 g/kg. Thereafter the animals were injected with [1-(13)C]glucose, and (13)C incorporation into and levels of various metabolites were quantified in extracts of the hippocampal formation (HF) and cortex using (1)H- and (13)C-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Increased glucose levels were detected in both regions together with a decreased amount of [3-(13)C]lactate, but no alterations in incorporation of (13)C derived from [1-(13)C]glucose into the amino acids glutamate, GABA and glutamine. These findings are consistent with decreased metabolism of glucose to lactate but not via the TCA cycle. Higher amounts of the sum of adenosine nucleotides, phosphocreatine and the phosphocreatine/creatine ratio found in the cortex of ALCAR-treated mice are indicative of increased energy levels. Furthermore, ALCAR supplementation increased the levels of the neurotransmitters noradrenaline in the HF and serotonin in cortex, consistent with ALCAR's potential efficacy for depressive symptoms. Other ALCAR-induced changes observed included reduced amounts of GABA in the HF and increased myo-inositol. In conclusion, chronic ALCAR supplementation decreased glucose metabolism to lactate, resulted in increased energy metabolite and altered monoamine neurotransmitter levels in the mouse brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olav B Smeland
- Dept. of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
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Hatzigiakoumis DS, Martinotti G, Giannantonio MD, Janiri L. Anhedonia and substance dependence: clinical correlates and treatment options. Front Psychiatry 2011; 2:10. [PMID: 21556280 PMCID: PMC3089992 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2011.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2010] [Accepted: 02/26/2011] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Anhedonia is a condition in which the capacity of experiencing pleasure is totally or partially lost, and it refers to both a state symptom in various psychiatric disorders and a personality trait. It has a putative neural substrate, originating in the dopaminergic mesolimbic and mesocortical reward circuit. Anhedonia frequently occurs in mood disorders, as a negative symptom in schizophrenia, and in substance use disorders. In particular, we focus our attention on the relationships occurring between anhedonia and substance use disorders, as highlighted by many studies. Several authors suggested that anhedonia is an important factor involved in relapse as well as in the transition from recreational use to excessive drug intake. In particular, anhedonia has been found to be a frequent feature in alcoholics and addicted patients during acute and chronic withdrawal as well as in cocaine, stimulant, and cannabis abusers. Furthermore, in subjects with a substance dependence disorder, there is a significant correlation between anhedonia, craving, intensity of withdrawal symptoms, and psychosocial and personality characteristics. Therefore treating anhedonia in detoxified alcohol-dependent subjects could be critical in terms of relapse prevention strategies, given its strong relationship with craving.
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