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Tondo L, Baldessarini RJ. Prevention of suicidal behavior with lithium treatment in patients with recurrent mood disorders. Int J Bipolar Disord 2024; 12:6. [PMID: 38460088 PMCID: PMC10924823 DOI: 10.1186/s40345-024-00326-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Suicidal behavior is more prevalent in bipolar disorders than in other psychiatric illnesses. In the last thirty years evidence has emerged to indicate that long-term treatment of bipolar disorder patients with lithium may reduce risk of suicide and attempts, with possibly similar benefits in recurrent major depressive disorder. We review and update selected research literature on effects of lithium treatment in reducing suicidal behavior and consider proposals that higher levels of lithium in drinking water may be associated with lower suicide rates. We summarize results of a growing number of randomized, controlled studies of lithium treatment for suicide prevention including comparisons with placebos or alternative treatments, and comment on the severe challenges of such trials. The basis of a proposed protective effect of lithium against suicidal behaviors remains uncertain but may include protective effects against recurrences of depressive phases of mood disorders, especially with mixed features or agitation, and possibly through beneficial effects on impulsivity, agitation and dysphoric mood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Tondo
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- International Consortium for Mood & Psychotic Disorder Research, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA.
- Lucio Bini Mood Disorder Centers, Centro Lucio Bini, 42 Via Crescenzio, Cagliari and Rome, 00193, Rome, Italy.
| | - Ross J Baldessarini
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- International Consortium for Mood & Psychotic Disorder Research, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
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Tabrisi R, Harun-Rashid MD, Montero J, Venizelos N, Msghina M. Clozapine but not lithium reverses aberrant tyrosine uptake in patients with bipolar disorder. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2023; 240:1667-1676. [PMID: 37318540 PMCID: PMC10349740 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06397-5] [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: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Availability of the dopamine and noradrenaline precursor tyrosine is critical for normal functioning, and deficit in tyrosine transport across cell membrane and the blood-brain barrier has been reported in bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Clozapine and lithium are two psychoactive agents used to treat psychosis, mood disorders and suicidal behavior, but their mechanism of action remains largely unknown. OBJECTIVE To characterize immediate and delayed differences in tyrosine uptake between healthy controls (HC) and bipolar patients (BP) and see if these differences could be normalized by either clozapine, lithium or both. A second objective was to see if clozapine and lithium have additive, antagonistic or synergistic effects in this. METHOD Fibroblasts from five HC and five BP were incubated for 5 min or 6 h with clozapine, lithium, or combination of both. Radioactive labelled tyrosine was used to quantify tyrosine membrane transport. RESULTS There was significantly reduced tyrosine uptake at baseline in BP compared to HC, a deficit that grew with increasing incubation time. Clozapine selectively increased tyrosine uptake in BP and abolished the deficit seen under baseline conditions, while lithium had no such effect. Combination treatment with clozapine and lithium was less effective than when clozapine was used alone. CONCLUSIONS There was significant deficit in tyrosine transport in BP compared to HC that was reversed by clozapine but not lithium. Clozapine was more effective when used alone than when added together with lithium. Potential clinical implications of this will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Tabrisi
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - M D Harun-Rashid
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - J Montero
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - N Venizelos
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - M Msghina
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden.
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Griffiths JJ, Zarate CA, Rasimas JJ. Existing and Novel Biological Therapeutics in Suicide Prevention. FOCUS (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC PUBLISHING) 2023; 21:225-232. [PMID: 37201148 PMCID: PMC10172549 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.23021003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
We summarize outcomes for several pharmacologic and neurostimulatory approaches that have been considered potential treatments to reduce suicide risk, namely, by reducing suicide deaths, attempts, and ideation in various clinical populations. Available treatments include clozapine, lithium, antidepressants, antipsychotics, electroconvulsive therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. The novel repurposing of ketamine as a potential suicide risk-mitigating agent in the acute setting is also discussed. Research pathways to better understand and treat suicidal ideation and behavior from a neurobiological perspective are proposed in light of this foundation of information and the limitations and challenges inherent in suicide research. Such pathways include trials of fast-acting medications, registry approaches to identify appropriate patients for trials, identification of biomarkers, neuropsychological vulnerabilities, and endophenotypes through the study of known suicide risk-mitigating agents in hope of determining mechanisms of pathophysiology and the action of protective biological interventions. Reprinted from Am J Prev Med 2014; 47:S195-S203, with permission from Elsevier. Copyright © 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua J Griffiths
- From the Department of Psychiatry (Griffiths), University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado; Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch (Zarate, Rasimas), Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland; and Departments of Psychiatry and Emergency Medicine (Rasimas), Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Carlos A Zarate
- From the Department of Psychiatry (Griffiths), University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado; Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch (Zarate, Rasimas), Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland; and Departments of Psychiatry and Emergency Medicine (Rasimas), Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - J J Rasimas
- From the Department of Psychiatry (Griffiths), University of Colorado, Denver, Colorado; Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch (Zarate, Rasimas), Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland; and Departments of Psychiatry and Emergency Medicine (Rasimas), Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
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Kwon CY, Lee B. The Effectiveness and Safety of Acupuncture on Suicidal Behavior: A Systematic Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11070955. [PMID: 37046882 PMCID: PMC10094566 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11070955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In situations where death by suicide is a major global issue and effective prevention and management approaches are lacking, acupuncture improves some risk factors for suicide, including depression, and it has been used for a long time in clinical settings. Herein, we aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture in the treatment of suicidal behaviors. Fourteen electronic databases were searched for studies published up to 7 September 2022. Original interventional studies of acupuncture in suicide prevention were included. The primary outcome was the validated measure of suicidal ideation. The risk of bias in the included studies was assessed using an appropriate assessment tool. Due to the heterogeneity of the included studies, only qualitative analyses were conducted. Eight studies on manual acupuncture (50%), electro-acupuncture (37.5%), and acupressure (12.5%) were included. In particular, three studies (37.5%) used the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association protocol to stimulate the bilateral sympathetic, Shenmen, kidney, liver, and lung auricular points. Acupuncture was effective in direct and indirect outcomes related to suicidal behavior, not only for participants with suicidal behavior, but also for those with other conditions, including depression. A decrease in salivary cortisol was the only biological indicator of acupuncture in patients with suicidal ideation. However, the methodological quality of the included studies was not optimal. In conclusion, acupuncture may reduce the risk of suicidal behavior in clinical and non-clinical populations. Owing to clinical heterogeneity, low methodological quality, and the small number of included studies, further high-quality studies should assess the effectiveness of acupuncture.
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Kwon CY, Lee B. The efficacy of acupuncture on suicidal behavior: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis. AIMS Public Health 2022; 9:651-660. [PMID: 36636152 PMCID: PMC9807412 DOI: 10.3934/publichealth.2022046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background One of the leading causes of death worldwide is suicide. Acupuncture has been reported to be related to clinical improvement of some risk factors for suicide including depression. Moreover, practitioner-patient communication is an important component of the acupuncture procedure, which may contribute to suicide risk reduction as a social contact. This systematic review was performed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture for suicidal behavior. Methods A comprehensive search will be conducted in electronic medical databases including MEDLINE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, PsycARTICLES, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang data, VIP Chinese Science and Technology Periodicals, Citation Information by NII, Koreanstudies Information Service System, Korea Citation Index, Research Information Sharing Service, Oriental Medicine Advanced Searching Integrated System, and Korean Medical database. Interventional studies regardless of its design to assess the role of acupuncture on suicide prevention will be included. The validated measure of suicidal ideation including Beck scale for suicidal ideation will be considered as a primary outcome. The validated tools will be used to assess methodological quality of included studies according to its design (e.g., Cochrane Collaboration's risk of bias tool-2). If sufficient homogeneous data from controlled clinical trials exist, a quantitative synthesis will be performed. According to the heterogeneity of included studies, either a random-effects or fixed-effects model will be used. Discussion The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis will help to address the emerging major public health problem, suicide, in terms of evidence-based medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chan-Young Kwon
- Department of Oriental Neuropsychiatry, Dong-eui University College of Korean Medicine, 52–57, Yangjeong-ro, Busanjin-gu, Busan, Republic of Korea,* Correspondence: ; Tel: +82518508808; Fax: +82518675162
| | - Boram Lee
- KM Science Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, 1672, Yuseong-daero, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Huang MH, Chen MH, Chan YLE, Li CT, Tsai SJ, Bai YM, Su TP. Pro-inflammatory cytokines and suicidal behavior among patients with bipolar I disorder. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 150:346-352. [PMID: 34844744 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Suicidal behavior and different mood states of bipolar I disorder (BD) have been shown to be associated with dysregulated proinflammatory cytokines. Only a few studies have examined the association between inflammation and SB in BD, and the association between proinflammatory cytokines, SB, and cognitive deficits in patients with BD remains unclear. METHODS 77 patients with BD and 61 age-/sex-matched healthy controls were recruited. Patients were divided into two groups: with suicidal ideation (SI; n = 21) and no SI (n = 56). SI was defined by a score of ≥1 in item 10 of Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale. Levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including soluble interleukin-6 receptor (sIL-6R), soluble tumor necrosis factor-α receptor type 1 (sTNF-αR1), and C-reactive protein (CRP), were measured, and cognitive function was assessed using 2-back task and Go/No-Go task. RESULTS Patients with SI had higher levels of sTNF-αR1 than those without SI and the controls (p = .004). BD patients with or without a history of suicide attempt had higher levels of CRP than the controls. SI was associated with serum levels of sTNF-αR1 and IL-6sR, even after additionally controlling for working memory and inhibitory control (p < .05). CONCLUSION This study indicates that serum levels of sTNF-αR1 have distinct differences between BD patients with or without SI, and our findings strengthen the hypothesis of a link between suicidal behavior and neuro-inflammation pathophysiology in BD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao-Hsuan Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Yuanshan and Suao Branch, Ilan, Taiwan; Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mu-Hong Chen
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yee-Lam E Chan
- Department of Psychiatry, General Cheng Hsin Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Ta Li
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Jen Tsai
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Mei Bai
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Tung-Ping Su
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, General Cheng Hsin Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Pooja F, Chhabria P, Kumar P, Kalpana F, Kumar P, Iqbal A, Qamar Z, Khalid D, Rizwan A. Frequency of Psychiatric Disorders in Suicide Attempters: A Cross-Sectional Study from Low-Income Country. Cureus 2021; 13:e14669. [PMID: 34079669 PMCID: PMC8159348 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.14669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: In Pakistan, due to legal and religious association, cases of attempted suicides are underreported in Pakistan, yet it is essential to have accurate data so that the causality leading to this national tragedy can be studied and minimized. Psychiatric disorders leading to suicide is largely neglected and under-researched in Pakistan. In this study, we aim to observe the frequency of psychiatric disorders among suicide attempters, which can help the doctors to counsel and treat the patients better and devise preventive strategies. Method: In this cross-sectional survey, patients brought to emergency with attempted suicide were enrolled in the study, after taking informed consent from the attendant. After initial treatment, the patient's clinical history was sought via a General Health Questionnaire-28. Once recognized, participants underwent detailed psychiatric evaluation and mental state examination. Results: Three hundred and fifty-two (352) patients were brought to the emergency with attempted suicide, of which 249 (70.7%) patients were identified with psychiatric morbidity. The most common psychiatric disorders were mood disorder (32.1%), comorbid psychiatric disorder (20.4%), and anxiety disorders (18.4%). Our study also showed that the prevalence of comorbid psychiatric disorders was significantly higher in females as compared to males, whereas substance use disorder was more common in males. Conclusion: The suicide rate has increased globally due to associated psychiatric disorders. Patients inflicting self-harm or failing at suicidal attempt are inclined towards attempting suicide in future. However, the social stigma associated with psychiatric disorders has heavily affected the process of successfully identifying and treating such patients. Along with focused long-term treatment, follow-up, and enhanced surveillance programs, mass awareness campaigns should be conducted to improve the knowledge and outlook of the general population towards psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fnu Pooja
- Internal Medicine, Chandka Medical College, Larkana, PAK
| | - Payal Chhabria
- Internal Medicine, Chandka Medical College, Larkana, PAK
| | - Pardeep Kumar
- Medicine, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, PAK
| | - Fnu Kalpana
- Internal Medicine, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical University, Larkana, PAK
| | - Pardeep Kumar
- Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
| | - Abbas Iqbal
- Internal Medicine, Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, PAK
| | - Zoya Qamar
- Internal Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
| | - Dua Khalid
- Internal Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, PAK
| | - Amber Rizwan
- Family Medicine, Jinnah Post Graduate Medical Center, Karachi, PAK
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Barnes TR, Drake R, Paton C, Cooper SJ, Deakin B, Ferrier IN, Gregory CJ, Haddad PM, Howes OD, Jones I, Joyce EM, Lewis S, Lingford-Hughes A, MacCabe JH, Owens DC, Patel MX, Sinclair JM, Stone JM, Talbot PS, Upthegrove R, Wieck A, Yung AR. Evidence-based guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of schizophrenia: Updated recommendations from the British Association for Psychopharmacology. J Psychopharmacol 2020; 34:3-78. [PMID: 31829775 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119889296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
These updated guidelines from the British Association for Psychopharmacology replace the original version published in 2011. They address the scope and targets of pharmacological treatment for schizophrenia. A consensus meeting was held in 2017, involving experts in schizophrenia and its treatment. They were asked to review key areas and consider the strength of the evidence on the risk-benefit balance of pharmacological interventions and the clinical implications, with an emphasis on meta-analyses, systematic reviews and randomised controlled trials where available, plus updates on current clinical practice. The guidelines cover the pharmacological management and treatment of schizophrenia across the various stages of the illness, including first-episode, relapse prevention, and illness that has proved refractory to standard treatment. It is hoped that the practice recommendations presented will support clinical decision making for practitioners, serve as a source of information for patients and carers, and inform quality improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Re Barnes
- Emeritus Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, Division of Psychiatry, Imperial College London, and Joint-head of the Prescribing Observatory for Mental Health, Centre for Quality Improvement, Royal College of Psychiatrists, London, UK
| | - Richard Drake
- Clinical Lead for Mental Health in Working Age Adults, Health Innovation Manchester, University of Manchester and Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Carol Paton
- Joint-head of the Prescribing Observatory for Mental Health, Centre for Quality Improvement, Royal College of Psychiatrists, London, UK
| | - Stephen J Cooper
- Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Bill Deakin
- Professor of Psychiatry, Neuroscience & Psychiatry Unit, University of Manchester and Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - I Nicol Ferrier
- Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry, Institute of Neuroscience, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Catherine J Gregory
- Honorary Clinical Research Fellow, University of Manchester and Higher Trainee in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Peter M Haddad
- Honorary Professor of Psychiatry, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, University of Manchester, UK and Senior Consultant Psychiatrist, Department of Psychiatry, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Oliver D Howes
- Professor of Molecular Psychiatry, Imperial College London and Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ian Jones
- Professor of Psychiatry and Director, National Centre of Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Eileen M Joyce
- Professor of Neuropsychiatry, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
| | - Shôn Lewis
- Professor of Adult Psychiatry, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, UK, and Mental Health Academic Lead, Health Innovation Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Anne Lingford-Hughes
- Professor of Addiction Biology and Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist, Imperial College London and Central North West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - James H MacCabe
- Professor of Epidemiology and Therapeutics, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, and Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist, National Psychosis Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Beckenham, UK
| | - David Cunningham Owens
- Professor of Clinical Psychiatry, University of Edinburgh. Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist, Royal Edinburgh Hospital, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Maxine X Patel
- Honorary Clinical Senior Lecturer, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience and Consultant Psychiatrist, Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Julia Ma Sinclair
- Professor of Addiction Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - James M Stone
- Clinical Senior Lecturer and Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience and South London and Maudsley NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Peter S Talbot
- Senior Lecturer and Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist, University of Manchester and Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Rachel Upthegrove
- Professor of Psychiatry and Youth Mental Health, University of Birmingham and Consultant Psychiatrist, Birmingham Early Intervention Service, Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Angelika Wieck
- Honorary Consultant in Perinatal Psychiatry, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Alison R Yung
- Professor of Psychiatry, University of Manchester, School of Health Sciences, Manchester, UK and Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia, and Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
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Cato V, Holländare F, Nordenskjöld A, Sellin T. Association between benzodiazepines and suicide risk: a matched case-control study. BMC Psychiatry 2019; 19:317. [PMID: 31655565 PMCID: PMC6815437 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-019-2312-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unclear whether benzodiazepines increase the risk of suicide. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that benzodiazepines are associated with an increased risk of suicide, by comparing psychopharmacological interventions between psychiatric patients who committed suicide and a group of matched controls. METHODS The case group comprised 154 psychiatric patients (101 men, 53 women; age range: 13-96 years) who had committed suicide in Örebro County, Sweden. Control psychiatric patients matched by age, sex, and main psychiatric diagnosis were selected for each case. Binary logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios in unadjusted and adjusted models. RESULTS Benzodiazepine prescriptions were more common among cases than controls (65/154 [42.2%] versus 43/154 [27.9%], p = 0.009, odds ratio: 1.89 [95% CI: 1.17-3.03]). This association remained significant in a model adjusted for previous suicide attempts and somatic hospitalizations (odds ratio: 1.83 [95% CI: 1.06-3.14]). No statistically significant differences were seen between the groups in the use of any other subtype of psychopharmaceutical agent. CONCLUSIONS These data indicate that benzodiazepine use may increase the risk of suicide. However, this study is limited by the potential for indication bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ville Cato
- 0000 0001 0738 8966grid.15895.30School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Holländare
- 0000 0001 0738 8966grid.15895.30University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden
| | - Axel Nordenskjöld
- University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, SE-701 82, Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Tabita Sellin
- 0000 0001 0738 8966grid.15895.30University Health Care Research Center, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden
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Suicide in Schizophrenia: An Educational Overview. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 55:medicina55070361. [PMID: 31295938 PMCID: PMC6681260 DOI: 10.3390/medicina55070361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Suicide is an important public health problem. The most frequent psychiatric illnesses associated with suicide or severe suicide attempt are mood and psychotic disorders. The purpose of this paper is to provide an educational overview of suicidal behavior in individuals with schizophrenia. A lifetime suicide rate in individuals with schizophrenia is approximately 10%. Suicide is the largest contributor to the decreased life expectancy in individuals with schizophrenia. Demographic and psychosocial factors that increase a risk of suicide in individuals with schizophrenia include younger age, being male, being unmarried, living alone, being unemployed, being intelligent, being well-educated, good premorbid adjustment or functioning, having high personal expectations and hopes, having an understanding that life’s expectations and hopes are not likely to be met, having had recent (i.e., within past 3 months) life events, having poor work functioning, and having access to lethal means, such as firearms. Throughout the first decade of their disorder, patients with schizophrenia are at substantially elevated suicide risk, although they continue to be at elevated suicide risk during their lives with times of worsening or improvement. Having awareness of symptoms, especially, awareness of delusions, anhedonia, asociality, and blunted affect, having a negative feeling about, or non-adherence with, treatment are associated with greater suicide risk in patients with schizophrenia. Comorbid depression and a history of suicidal behavior are important contributors to suicide risk in patients with schizophrenia. The only reliable protective factor for suicide in patients with schizophrenia is provision of and compliance with comprehensive treatment. Prevention of suicidal behavior in schizophrenia should include recognizing patients at risk, delivering the best possible therapy for psychotic symptoms, and managing comorbid depression and substance misuse.
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Smith KA, Cipriani A. Lithium and suicide in mood disorders: Updated meta-review of the scientific literature. Bipolar Disord 2017; 19:575-586. [PMID: 28895269 DOI: 10.1111/bdi.12543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 07/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Suicide and suicidal behaviour are increased in mood disorders, particularly bipolar disorders. Observational studies and small randomized controlled trials (RCTs) support the idea that taking lithium is associated with a reduction in these rates. This paper aims to review the best evidence for the effect of lithium on rates of suicide and self harm. METHODS We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library systematically for systematic reviews and meta-analyses of RCTs of lithium and suicide and self harm published between January 1980 and June 2017. In the case of multiple publications on the same topic, only the most recent or most comprehensive review was considered. RESULTS A large number of reviews were identified, but only 16 publications were systematic reviews. Of these, three systematic reviews of lithium and suicide rates and one of lithium and self harm confined only to RCTs were identified. Despite some methodological concerns and heterogeneity in terms of participants, diagnoses, comparators, durations, and phase of illness, the evidence to date is overwhelmingly in favour of lithium as an antisuicidal agent, even balanced against any potential disadvantages of its use in regular clinical practice. CONCLUSIONS The anti-suicidal effects of lithium have been consistently reported over the past 40 years. The most robust evidence comes from RCTs, but these results are also discussed in the context of the difficulties in conducting high quality studies in this area, and the supporting evidence that observational and non-randomized studies can also provide. Given this evidence, however, the use of lithium is still underrepresented in clinical practice and should be incorporated more assertively into current guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine A Smith
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Andrea Cipriani
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
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Gould TD, Georgiou P, Brenner LA, Brundin L, Can A, Courtet P, Donaldson ZR, Dwivedi Y, Guillaume S, Gottesman II, Kanekar S, Lowry CA, Renshaw PF, Rujescu D, Smith EG, Turecki G, Zanos P, Zarate CA, Zunszain PA, Postolache TT. Animal models to improve our understanding and treatment of suicidal behavior. Transl Psychiatry 2017; 7:e1092. [PMID: 28398339 PMCID: PMC5416692 DOI: 10.1038/tp.2017.50] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2016] [Revised: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, suicide is a leading cause of death. Although a sizable proportion of deaths by suicide may be preventable, it is well documented that despite major governmental and international investments in research, education and clinical practice suicide rates have not diminished and are even increasing among several at-risk populations. Although nonhuman animals do not engage in suicidal behavior amenable to translational studies, we argue that animal model systems are necessary to investigate candidate endophenotypes of suicidal behavior and the neurobiology underlying these endophenotypes. Animal models are similarly a critical resource to help delineate treatment targets and pharmacological means to improve our ability to manage the risk of suicide. In particular, certain pathophysiological pathways to suicidal behavior, including stress and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction, neurotransmitter system abnormalities, endocrine and neuroimmune changes, aggression, impulsivity and decision-making deficits, as well as the role of critical interactions between genetic and epigenetic factors, development and environmental risk factors can be modeled in laboratory animals. We broadly describe human biological findings, as well as protective effects of medications such as lithium, clozapine, and ketamine associated with modifying risk of engaging in suicidal behavior that are readily translatable to animal models. Endophenotypes of suicidal behavior, studied in animal models, are further useful for moving observed associations with harmful environmental factors (for example, childhood adversity, mechanical trauma aeroallergens, pathogens, inflammation triggers) from association to causation, and developing preventative strategies. Further study in animals will contribute to a more informed, comprehensive, accelerated and ultimately impactful suicide research portfolio.
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Affiliation(s)
- T D Gould
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - P Georgiou
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - L A Brenner
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, Denver, CO, USA
- Military and Veteran Microbiome Consortium for Research and Education, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - L Brundin
- Center for Neurodegenerative Science, Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - A Can
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Psychology, Notre Dame of Maryland University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - P Courtet
- Department of Emergency Psychiatry and Post Acute Care, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Université Montpellier, Inserm U1061, Montpellier, France
| | - Z R Donaldson
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Y Dwivedi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - S Guillaume
- Department of Emergency Psychiatry and Post Acute Care, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Université Montpellier, Inserm U1061, Montpellier, France
| | - I I Gottesman
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - S Kanekar
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - C A Lowry
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, Denver, CO, USA
- Military and Veteran Microbiome Consortium for Research and Education, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - P F Renshaw
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, Denver, CO, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - D Rujescu
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - E G Smith
- Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - G Turecki
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - P Zanos
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - C A Zarate
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - P A Zunszain
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - T T Postolache
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, Denver, CO, USA
- Military and Veteran Microbiome Consortium for Research and Education, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Washington, DC, USA
- VISN 5 Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, Baltimore MD, USA
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13
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Ketamine and suicidal ideation in depression: Jumping the gun? Pharmacol Res 2015; 99:23-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2015.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Revised: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Popovic D, Benabarre A, Crespo JM, Goikolea JM, González-Pinto A, Gutiérrez-Rojas L, Montes JM, Vieta E. Risk factors for suicide in schizophrenia: systematic review and clinical recommendations. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2014; 130:418-26. [PMID: 25230813 DOI: 10.1111/acps.12332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify risk factors associated with suicide of patients with schizophrenia and provide clinical recommendations, which integrate research findings into a consensus based on clinical experience and evidence. METHOD A task force formed of experts and clinicians iteratively developed consensus through serial revisions using the Delphi method. Initial survey items were based on systematic literature review published up to June 2013. RESULTS Various risk factors were reported to be implicated in suicide in schizophrenia. Our findings indicate that suicide risk in schizophrenia is mainly related to affective symptoms, history of a suicide attempt and number of psychiatric admissions. Other risk factors identified are given by younger age, closeness to illness onset, older age at illness onset, male sex, substance abuse and period during or following psychiatric discharge. Integrating the evidence and the experience of the task force members, a consensus was reached on 14 clinical recommendations. CONCLUSION Identification of risk factors for suicide in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia is imperative to improve clinical management and develop strategies to reduce the incidence of suicide in this population. This study provides the critical overview of available data and clinical recommendations on recognition and management of the above-mentioned risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Popovic
- Bipolar Disorders Program, Hospital Clínic, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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15
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Griffiths JJ, Zarate CA, Rasimas JJ. Existing and novel biological therapeutics in suicide prevention. Am J Prev Med 2014; 47:S195-203. [PMID: 25145739 PMCID: PMC4143783 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2014.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2013] [Revised: 05/27/2014] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
We summarize outcomes for several pharmacologic and neurostimulatory approaches that have been considered potential treatments to reduce suicide risk, namely, by reducing suicide deaths, attempts, and ideation in various clinical populations. Available treatments include clozapine, lithium, antidepressants, antipsychotics, electroconvulsive therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. The novel repurposing of ketamine as a potential suicide risk-mitigating agent in the acute setting is also discussed. Research pathways to better understand and treat suicidal ideation and behavior from a neurobiological perspective are proposed in light of this foundation of information and the limitations and challenges inherent in suicide research. Such pathways include trials of fast-acting medications, registry approaches to identify appropriate patients for trials, identification of biomarkers, neuropsychological vulnerabilities, and endophenotypes through the study of known suicide risk-mitigating agents in hope of determining mechanisms of pathophysiology and the action of protective biological interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carlos A Zarate
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - J J Rasimas
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland; Departments of Psychiatry and Emergency Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania.
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16
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Olabi B, Hall J. Borderline personality disorder: current drug treatments and future prospects. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2012; 1:59-66. [PMID: 23251729 DOI: 10.1177/2040622310368455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) suffer from marked affective disturbance, an unstable sense of self, difficulty in interpersonal relationships and heightened impulsivity, leading to high rates of self-harm and suicide. Patients are often refractory to treatment and are at high risk for acute or dangerous presentations, with a serious impact on mental health services. There has been much debate on the effectiveness of pharmacotherapy in treating different facets of the psychopathology of the disorder. Several guidelines recommend the use of antidepressant agents, mood stabilizers for affective dysregulation and impulsive-behavioural dyscontrol, and antipsychotics for cognitive-perceptual symptoms. However, concerns have recently been raised regarding the strength of evidence for these treatment recommendations in BPD. Here, we review the evidence for efficacy of the main psychotropic medications used in BPD, drawing, in particular, on evidence from randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses. Overall, meta-analysis provides little evidence to support the use of antidepressant medication in BPD outside episodes of major depression. However, there is evidence for the use of both mood stabilizers and antipsychotic medications for the treatment of specific aspects of the disorder. Most existing studies have been conducted on small numbers of patients, and there is a requirement for further large-scale trials to substantiate these findings. In addition, given the limitations of current pharmacological treatment of BPD, there is a pressing need to investigate potential new therapeutic targets, including neuropeptides, such as the opioids and vasopressin, and drugs targeted at ameliorating the biological effects of early life stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bayanne Olabi
- Bayanne Olabi Division of Psychiatry, School of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Royal Edinburgh Hospital, Edinburgh, EH10 5HF, UK
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Bellani M, Hatch JP, Nicoletti MA, Ertola AE, Zunta-Soares G, Swann AC, Brambilla P, Soares JC. Does anxiety increase impulsivity in patients with bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder? J Psychiatr Res 2012; 46:616-21. [PMID: 22326294 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2012.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2011] [Revised: 11/18/2011] [Accepted: 01/12/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine whether anxiety increases impulsivity among patients with bipolar disorder (BPD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Subjects comprised 205 BPD (mean age ± SD 36.6 ± 11.5 y; 29.3% males) and 105 with MDD (mean age ± SD 38 ± 13.1 y; 29.5% males) diagnosed using the DSM-IV-SCID. Impulsivity was assessed with the Barratt Impulsivity Scale and anxiety with the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale. Comorbid anxiety disorders were present in 58.9% of the BPD and 29.1% of MDD. BPD were significantly more impulsive than MDD (p < 0.001), and both BPD and MDD subjects showed significantly higher impulsivity when anxiety was present either as a comorbidity (p = 0.010) or as a symptom (p = 0.011). Impulsivity rose more rapidly with increasing anxiety symptoms in MDD than in BPD. The presence of anxiety, either as a comorbid disorder or as current anxiety symptoms, is associated with higher impulsivity in subjects with either BPD or MDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Bellani
- UT Center of Excellence on Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UT Houston Medical School, Houston, TX, USA.
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Barnes TRE. Evidence-based guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of schizophrenia: recommendations from the British Association for Psychopharmacology. J Psychopharmacol 2011; 25:567-620. [PMID: 21292923 DOI: 10.1177/0269881110391123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 239] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
These guidelines from the British Association for Psychopharmacology address the scope and targets of pharmacological treatment for schizophrenia. A consensus meeting, involving experts in schizophrenia and its treatment, reviewed key areas and considered the strength of evidence and clinical implications. The guidelines were drawn up after extensive feedback from the participants and interested parties, and cover the pharmacological management and treatment of schizophrenia across the various stages of the illness, including first-episode, relapse prevention, and illness that has proved refractory to standard treatment. The practice recommendations presented are based on the available evidence to date, and seek to clarify which interventions are of proven benefit. It is hoped that the recommendations will help to inform clinical decision making for practitioners, and perhaps also serve as a source of information for patients and carers. They are accompanied by a more detailed qualitative review of the available evidence. The strength of supporting evidence for each recommendation is rated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas R E Barnes
- Centre for Mental Health, Imperial College, Charing Cross Campus, London, UK.
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