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Kennedy KP, Zito MF, Marder SR. Does relapse cause illness progression in first-episode psychosis? A review. Schizophr Res 2024; 271:161-168. [PMID: 39029146 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2024.07.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is widely believed that relapse in first-episode psychosis (FEP) causes illness progression, with previous reviews suggesting that treatment non-response develops in one in six patients who relapse. This belief contributes to the primary treatment goal in FEP being relapse-prevention, often in favor of other recovery-oriented goals. However, previous reviews primarily reported on naturalistic studies in chronic schizophrenia and predated multiple major studies with higher-quality designs. METHODS We conducted a narrative review of studies of any design that examine the impact of relapse on medication response and other symptomatic and functional outcomes in FEP. RESULTS We identified eight relevant studies, five of these published since the last major review on this topic. Observational studies show a clear association between relapses and worse response to medication, but poorly control for confounding. Three higher-quality studies (two randomized) generally do not find worse symptomatic or functional outcomes among medication reduction/discontinuation arms compared to maintenance controls, despite significantly higher initial rates of relapse. CONCLUSION While the social and psychological consequences of a relapse should not be dismissed, clinicians should demand high-quality evidence about the risks of relapse on long-term outcomes. The conventional notion that relapse leads to treatment non-response or worse long-term outcomes is generally not supported by the highest quality studies. These findings can help clinicians and patients weigh the risks and benefits of competing treatment strategies in FEP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin P Kennedy
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
| | - Michael F Zito
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Stephen R Marder
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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2
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Ahola I, Raijada D, Cornett C, Bøtker J, Rantanen J, Genina N. Tailor-Made Doses of Pharmaceuticals by Tunable Modular Design: A Case Study on Tapering Antidepressant Medication. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2403852. [PMID: 38696202 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202403852] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
An abrupt cessation of antidepressant medication can be challenging due to the appearance of withdrawal symptoms. A slow hyperbolic tapering of an antidepressant, such as citalopram hydrobromide (CHB), can mitigate the withdrawal syndrome. However, there are no viable dosage forms on the market to implement the tapering scheme. A solution using a tunable modular design (TMD) approach to produce flexible and accurate doses of CHB is proposed. This design consists of two parts: 1) a module with a fixed amount of preloaded CHB in a freeze-dried polymer matrix, and 2) fine-tuning the CHB dose by inkjet printing. A noncontact food-grade printer, used for the first time for printing pharmaceuticals, is modified to allow for accurate printing of the highly concentrated CHB ink on the porous CHB-free or CHB-preloaded modules. The produced modules with submilligram precision are bench-marked with commercially available CHB tablets that are manually divided. The TMD covers the entire range of doses needed for the tapering (0.5-23.8 mg). The greatest variance is 13% and 88% when comparing the TMD and self-tapering, respectively. Self-tapering is proven inaccurate and showcases the need for the TMD to make available accurate and personalized doses to wean off treatment with CHB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilari Ahola
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Dhara Raijada
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
- Oral Product Development, Pharmaceutical Technology & Development, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, 431 83, Sweden
| | - Claus Cornett
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Johan Bøtker
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Jukka Rantanen
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Natalja Genina
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
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Horowitz MA, Moncrieff J. Gradually tapering off antipsychotics: lessons for practice from case studies and neurobiological principles. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2024; 37:320-330. [PMID: 38726815 PMCID: PMC11139239 DOI: 10.1097/yco.0000000000000940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There has been an increasing focus on deprescribing in psychiatry recently, particularly of antipsychotic medication, with recognition that not all patients with psychotic disorders require lifelong medication. We summarize some empirical and theoretical papers, and examine case studies to provide instruction on this topic. RECENT FINDINGS Recent studies have found that slower tapering (over months or longer) of antipsychotics is associated with a lower relapse rate than quicker tapering (weeks). Case studies presented suggest that the process of reduction is associated with the precipitation or exacerbation of psychotic symptoms and that a slower process of reduction may minimize this effect. This may be because faster reductions cause greater disruption of homeostatic equilibria, provoking psychotic symptoms either as direct withdrawal symptoms or consequences of nonpsychotic withdrawal symptoms (e.g. insomnia) - although not all patients will experience withdrawal symptoms. This suggests that smaller dose reductions, especially at lower doses, made very gradually, may minimize the risk of psychotic symptoms. SUMMARY Slower tapering of antipsychotics may provide time for adaptations made to the presence of the medications to resolve, thus reducing the disruption to homeostatic equilibrium caused by dose reduction, potentially reducing the risk of relapse. Exacerbation of psychotic symptoms on antipsychotic reduction may not represent evidence of the need for a higher dose of antipsychotic on a long-term basis but may indicate the need for more gradual reduction. Gradual reduction of antipsychotics, especially after long-term use in clinical practice is prudent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A. Horowitz
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House, Fitzrovia, London
- North East London Foundation Trust, Goodmayes Hospital, Goodmayes, Ilford, UK
| | - Joanna Moncrieff
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House, Fitzrovia, London
- North East London Foundation Trust, Goodmayes Hospital, Goodmayes, Ilford, UK
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Hung A, Wilson LE, Smith VA, Pavon JM, Sloan CE, Hastings SN, Maciejewski ML. Impact of comprehensive medication reviews on potentially inappropriate medication discontinuation in Medicare beneficiaries. J Am Geriatr Soc 2024. [PMID: 38826070 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.19013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) is associated with increased risk of hospitalizations and emergency room visits and varies by racial and ethnic subgroups. Medicare's nationwide medication therapy management (MTM) program requires that Part D plans offer an annual comprehensive medication review (CMR) to all beneficiaries who qualify, and provides a platform to reduce PIM use. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of CMR on PIM discontinuation in Medicare beneficiaries and whether this differed by race or ethnicity. METHODS Retrospective cohort study of community-dwelling Medicare Part D beneficiaries ≥66 years of age who were eligible for MTM from 2013 to 2019 based on 5% Medicare fee-for-service claims data linked to the 100% MTM data file. Among those using a PIM, MTM-eligible CMR recipients were matched to non-recipients via sequential stratification. The probability of PIM discontinuation was estimated using regression models that pooled yearly subcohorts accounting for within-beneficiary correlations. The most common PIMs that were discontinued after CMR were reported. RESULTS We matched 24,368 CMR recipients to 24,368 CMR non-recipients during the observation period. Median age was 74-75, 35% were males, most were White beneficiaries (86%-87%), and the median number of PIMs was 1. In adjusted analyses, CMR receipt was positively associated with PIM discontinuation (adjusted relative risk [aRR]: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.20-1.32). There was no evidence of differential impact of CMR by race or ethnicity. The PIMs most commonly discontinued after CMR were glimepiride, zolpidem, digoxin, amitriptyline, and nitrofurantoin. CONCLUSIONS Among Medicare beneficiaries who are using a PIM, CMR receipt was associated with PIM discontinuation, suggesting that greater CMR use could facilitate PIM reduction for all racial and ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Hung
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lauren E Wilson
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Valerie A Smith
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Juliessa M Pavon
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Geriatrics Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Caroline E Sloan
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Susan N Hastings
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Division of Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Geriatrics Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Matthew L Maciejewski
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham VA Health Care System, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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Storck W, de Laportalière TT, Yrondi A, Javelot H, Berna F, Montastruc F. Withdrawal syndrome after antipsychotics discontinuation: an analysis of the WHO database of spontaneous reports (Vigibase) between 2000 and 2022. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024; 241:1205-1212. [PMID: 38376511 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06554-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Withdrawal syndrome (WDS) has been described after discontinuation of antipsychotics. WDS could be the consequence of an over-activation of the dopaminergic pathway. Antipsychotics with a higher affinity for dopamine D2 receptors could be associated with a higher risk of WDS. This study aims to address this statement and evaluate the risk difference for withdrawal syndrome between antipsychotics based on pharmacovigilance data. METHODS We collected individual reports registered in Vigibase® between 01/01/2000 and 31/12/2022 of patients treated with antipsychotics and who had presented WDS. A disproportionality analysis was performed to evaluate the risk of reporting WDS with each antipsychotic compared to all other antipsychotics. We performed a correlation analysis to assess the correlation between the risk of reporting WDS for each antipsychotic in relation with their pKi for D2 and 5HT2A receptors. RESULTS The most frequent psychiatric withdrawal symptoms after antipsychotic discontinuation were insomnia, anxiety and depression. Tremor, headache and dizziness were among the most frequently reported neurologic withdrawal symptoms. Tiotixene had the highest risk of reporting WDS (ROR 7.08; 95%CI 3.49 - 14.35) followed by pimozide (ROR 4.35; 95%CI 1.93 - 9.77), quetiapine (ROR 4.24; 95%CI 3.87 - 4.64), thioridazine (ROR 4.17; 95%CI 2.50-6.98) and ziprasidone (ROR 2.98; 95%CI 2.41-3.67). We found a poor correlation between D2/5HT2A binding affinity and the risk of reporting withdrawal syndrome (R2 = 0,094). CONCLUSION Our results suggest that there might be a risk difference for WDS between antipsychotics. Tiotixene, pimozide and quetiapine were associated with a higher risk of reporting a WDS whereas this risk was lower with chlorpromazine, clozapine and fluphenazine. We could not address the issue of withdrawal psychosis, withdrawal dyskinesia, rebound psychosis or supersensitivity psychosis due to the lack of specific WHO medDRA coded terms to identify potential cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilhelm Storck
- Department of Medical and Clinical Pharmacology, Centre of PharmacoVigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and Toulouse University Hospital (CHU), 37 Allées Jules-Guesde 31000, Toulouse, France.
| | | | - Antoine Yrondi
- Department of Psychiatry, Toulouse University Hospital (CHU), Treatment Resistant Depression Expert Center, FondaMental, Toulouse, France
| | - Hervé Javelot
- PsychoPharmacology Ressources and Expertise Center (PPREC), Etablissement Public de Santé Alsace Nord, Brumath, UR7296 - CRBS, Faculty of Medicine, Strasbourg, France
| | - Fabrice Berna
- Psychiatry Department, University Hospital of Strasbourg, INSERM U1114 - Cognitive Neuropsychology and Pathophysiology of Schizophrenia, Strasbourg, France
| | - François Montastruc
- Department of Medical and Clinical Pharmacology, Centre of PharmacoVigilance and Pharmacoepidemiology, Faculty of Medicine and Toulouse University Hospital (CHU), 37 Allées Jules-Guesde 31000, Toulouse, France
- CIC 1436, Team PEPSS « Pharmacologie En Population CohorteS Et BiobanqueS », Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
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McCutcheon RA, Taylor D, Rubio J, Nour J, Pillinger T, Murray RM, Jauhar S. Does Slow and Steady Win the Race? Rates of Antipsychotic Discontinuation, Antipsychotic Dose, and Risk of Psychotic Relapse. Schizophr Bull 2024; 50:513-520. [PMID: 37797288 PMCID: PMC11059789 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbad139] [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] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antipsychotics are recommended for prevention of relapse in schizophrenia. It is unclear whether increased risk of relapse following antipsychotic discontinuation is predominantly associated with an absolute magnitude of dose reduction or rate of antipsychotic reduction. Establishing the responsible mechanism is important because prolonged withdrawal schedules have been suggested to reduce risk of relapse. STUDY DESIGN Individual patient data from antipsychotic discontinuation studies were obtained. We estimated the occupancy of receptors over time using half-lives and median effective dose ED50 values obtained from pharmacokinetic and receptor occupancy studies. Hazard ratios for relapse events were calculated using Cox proportional hazards models to assess the influence of formulation (oral, 1-monthly, and 3-monthly injections). The change in hazard ratio over time was estimated, and the effect of time-varying covariates was calculated, including rate of occupancy reduction and absolute receptor occupancy. STUDY RESULTS Five studies including 1388 participants with schizophrenia were identified (k = 2: oral, k = 2: 1-monthly injection, k = 1: 3-monthly injection). Withdrawal of long-acting injectable medication did not lead to a lower hazard ratio compared with withdrawal of oral medication, and this included the period immediately following randomization. Hazard ratios were not associated with the rate of decline of receptor occupancy; however, they were associated with reduced absolute occupancy in trials of long-acting injections (P = .038). CONCLUSIONS Antipsychotic discontinuation is associated with an increased risk of psychotic relapse, related to receptor occupancy. Although relapse does not appear to be related to the rate of discontinuation, gradual discontinuation strategies may allow for easier antipsychotic reinstatement in case of symptomatic worsening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A McCutcheon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - David Taylor
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Jose Rubio
- Department of Psychiatry, Northwell Health, The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Glen Oaks, NY, USA
| | - Joseph Nour
- East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Toby Pillinger
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Robin M Murray
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
| | - Sameer Jauhar
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
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7
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O'Neill JR, Jameson A, McLean SL, Dixon M, Cardno AG, Lawrence C. A proposal for reducing maximum target doses of drugs for psychosis: Reviewing dose-response literature. J Psychopharmacol 2024; 38:344-352. [PMID: 38494791 DOI: 10.1177/02698811241239543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Presently, there is limited guidance on the maximal dosing of psychosis drugs that is based on effectiveness rather than safety or toxicity. Current maximum dosing recommendations may far exceed the necessary degree of dopamine D2 receptor blockade required to treat psychosis. This may lead to excess harm through cognitive impairment and side effects. AIMS This analysis aimed to establish guidance for prescribers by optimally dosing drugs for psychosis based on efficacy and benefit. METHODS We used data from two dose-response meta-analyses and reviewed seven of the most prescribed drugs for psychosis in the UK. Where data were not available, we used appropriate comparison techniques based on D2 receptor occupancy to extrapolate our recommendations. RESULTS We found that the likely threshold dose for achieving remission of psychotic symptoms was often significantly below the currently licensed dose for these drugs. We therefore recommend that clinicians are cautious about exceeding our recommended doses. Individual factors, however, should be accounted for. We outline potentially relevant factors including age, ethnicity, sex, smoking status and pharmacogenetics. Additionally, we recommend therapeutic drug monitoring as a tool to determine individual pharmacokinetic variation. CONCLUSIONS In summary, we propose a new set of maximum target doses for psychosis drugs based on efficacy. Further research through randomised controlled trials should be undertaken to evaluate the effect of reducing doses from current licensing maximums or from doses that are above our recommendations. However, dose reductions should be implemented in a manner that accounts for and reduces the effects of drug withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R O'Neill
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Wakefield, UK
- Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Adam Jameson
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
- Wolfson Centre for Applied Health Research, Bradford, UK
- Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust, Shipley, UK
| | - Samantha L McLean
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
- Wolfson Centre for Applied Health Research, Bradford, UK
| | - Michael Dixon
- Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Christopher Lawrence
- Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Mølgaard SN, Nielsen MØ, Roed K, Nielsen J. Clinical experiences of guided tapering of antipsychotics for patients with schizophrenia- a case series. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:240. [PMID: 38553687 PMCID: PMC10981298 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05699-y] [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: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 80% of patients value information on treatment options as an important part of recovery, further patients with a history of psychotic episodes feel excluded from decision making about their antipsychotic treatment, and on top of that, mental health staff is prone to be reluctant to support shared decision making and medication tapering for patients with schizophrenia. This case series aims to demonstrate the tapering of antipsychotic medication and how guided tapering affects the patient's feeling of autonomy and psychiatric rehabilitation. CASE PRESENTATION We present six patients diagnosed with schizophrenia (International Classification of Mental and Behavioral Disorders- 10th Edition codes F20.0-5, F20.7-9) who underwent professionally guided tapering in our clinic. The clinic aims to guide the patients to identify the lowest possible dose of antipsychotic medication in a safe setting to minimise the risk of severe relapse. Two patients completely discontinued their antipsychotic medication, two suffered a relapse during tapering, one chose to stop the tapering at a low dose, and one patient with treatment resistant schizophrenia, which is still tapering down. CONCLUSIONS Reducing the antipsychotic dose increased emotional awareness in some patients (n = 4) helping them to develop better strategies to handle stress and increased feelings of recovery. Patients felt a greater sense of autonomy and empowerment during the tapering process, even when discontinuation was not possible. Increased awareness in patients and early intervention during relapse may prevent severe relapse. IMPACT AND IMPLICATIONS Some patients with schizophrenia might be over medicated, leading to unwanted side effects and the wish to reduce their medication. The patients in our study illustrate how guided tapering of antipsychotic medication done jointly with the patient can lead to improved emotional awareness and the development of effective symptom management strategies. This may in turn lead to a greater sense of empowerment and identity and give life more meaning, supporting the experience of personal recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Norlin Mølgaard
- Mental Health Center Glostrup, Copenhagen University Hospital, Unit for complicated schizophrenia, Glostrup, Denmark.
| | - Mette Ødegaard Nielsen
- Mental Health Center Glostrup, Copenhagen University Hospital, Unit for complicated schizophrenia, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Kickan Roed
- Mental Health Centre Glostrup, Copenhagen University Hospital- Mental Health Services CPH, Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health Care, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Jimmi Nielsen
- Mental Health Center Glostrup, Copenhagen University Hospital, Unit for complicated schizophrenia, Glostrup, Denmark
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Vinkers CH, Kupka RW, Penninx BW, Ruhé HG, van Gaalen JM, van Haaren PCF, Schellekens AFA, Jauhar S, Ramos-Quiroga JA, Vieta E, Tiihonen J, Veldman SE, Veling W, Vis R, de Wit LE, Luykx JJ. Discontinuation of psychotropic medication: a synthesis of evidence across medication classes. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02445-4. [PMID: 38503923 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02445-4] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Pharmacotherapy is an effective treatment modality across psychiatric disorders. Nevertheless, many patients discontinue their medication at some point. Evidence-based guidance for patients, clinicians, and policymakers on rational discontinuation strategies is vital to enable the best, personalized treatment for any given patient. Nonetheless, there is a scarcity of guidelines on discontinuation strategies. In this perspective, we therefore summarize and critically appraise the evidence on discontinuation of six major psychotropic medication classes: antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, mood stabilizers, opioids, and stimulants. For each medication class, a wide range of topics pertaining to each of the following questions are discussed: (1) Who can discontinue (e.g., what are risk factors for relapse?); (2) When to discontinue (e.g., after 1 year or several years of antidepressant use?); and (3) How to discontinue (e.g., what's the efficacy of dose reduction compared to full cessation and interventions to mitigate relapse risk?). We thus highlight how comparing the evidence across medication classes can identify knowledge gaps, which may pave the way for more integrated research on discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiaan H Vinkers
- Department of Psychiatry and Anatomy & Neurosciences, Amsterdam University Medical Center location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Amsterdam Public Health, Mental Health Program and Amsterdam Neuroscience, Mood, Anxiety, Psychosis, Sleep & Stress Program, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- GGZ inGeest Mental Health Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Ralph W Kupka
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience and Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Brenda W Penninx
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience and Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henricus G Ruhé
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboudumc, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jakob M van Gaalen
- GGZ inGeest Mental Health Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience and Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Paul C F van Haaren
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboudumc, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Arnt F A Schellekens
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboudumc, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sameer Jauhar
- Centre for Affective Disorders, Psychological Medicine, IoPPN, King's College, London, UK
| | - Josep A Ramos-Quiroga
- Department of Mental Health, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Group of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addictions, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Biomedical Network Research Centre on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Eduard Vieta
- Bipolar and Depressive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, Institute of Neuroscience, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jari Tiihonen
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Niuvanniemi Hospital, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, 11364, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Psychiatry Research, Stockholm City Council, Stockholm, Sweden
- Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Stijn E Veldman
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboudumc, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Nijmegen Institute for Scientist Practitioners in Addiction (NISPA), Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Novadic-Kentron Addiction Care, Vught, The Netherlands
| | - Wim Veling
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Roeland Vis
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein/Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Laura E de Wit
- Department of Psychiatry, St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein/Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jurjen J Luykx
- GGZ inGeest Mental Health Care, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience and Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Meehan S, Moran S, Rainford A, McDonald C, Hallahan B. The impact of fluphenazine withdrawal: a mirror-image study. Ir J Psychol Med 2024:1-5. [PMID: 38497092 DOI: 10.1017/ipm.2024.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fluphenazine decanoate licenced as a long-acting injectable (LAI) first-generation antipsychotic (FGA) was withdrawn from sale in 2018. This study evaluates if its withdrawal resulted in increased relapse rates of psychosis in an Irish patient cohort and examines which prescribed alternative antipsychotic medications were associated with more optimal outcomes. METHODS Fifteen participants diagnosed with a psychotic disorder were included. A mirror-image study over 24-months' pre-and post-withdrawal of fluphenazine was conducted. Kaplan-Meier survival and proportional hazards analyses were conducted. The impact of alternate antipsychotic agents (LAI flupenthixol compared to other antipsychotic medications) was evaluated. Semi-structured interviews with participants examined subjective opinions regarding the change in their treatment. RESULTS Seven participants (46.7%) relapsed in the 24-month period subsequent to fluphenazine discontinuation compared to one individual (6.7%) in the previous identical time-period (p = 0.035). Flupenthixol treatment was associated with reduced relapse rates compared to other antipsychotics (χ2 = 5.402, p = 0.02). Thematic analysis revealed that participants believed that the discontinuation of fluphenazine deleteriously impacted the stability of their mental disorder. CONCLUSION The withdrawal of fluphenazine was associated with increased relapse rate in individuals previously demonstrating stability of their psychotic disorder. While acknowledging the limitation of small sample size, preliminary evidence from this study suggests that treatment with the first-generation antipsychotic (FGA) flupenthixol was associated with a lower risk of relapse compared to SGAs. Reasons for this lower risk of relapse are not fully clear but could be related to dopamine hypersensitivity with this treatment change.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Meehan
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - S Moran
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - A Rainford
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - C McDonald
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - B Hallahan
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
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11
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Jobe LB, Mårtensson S, Düring SW. Polypharmacy in antipsychotic pharmacological treatment among patients with dual diagnosis in Denmark. Nord J Psychiatry 2024; 78:112-119. [PMID: 37938028 DOI: 10.1080/08039488.2023.2277820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antipsychotic polypharmacy is prevalent, however literature on antipsychotic polypharmacy during treatment among patients with dual diagnosis is largely non-existent. This study aims to investigating the extent of antipsychotic polypharmacy dual diagnosis patients during hospitalisations. METHODS Utilizing cohort data from an integrated dual diagnosis in-patient facility from patients hospitalized between 1 March 2012, to 31 December 2016, we compared the mean antipsychotic medication administered at admission and discharge and examined covariate associations with logistic regressions. RESULTS The study identified 907 hospital admissions, of which 641 were the first for each patient during the period. At admission, 74.1% received antipsychotics; polypharmacy spanned psychiatric disorders. categories. Patients with affective or personality spectrum disorders were less likely to have antipsychotic polypharmacy upon admission compared to those with psychosis spectrum disorders. 2013-2016 admissions presented less polypharmacy than 2012. Mean antipsychotic numbers remained unchanged for >30-day hospitalizations. Patients admitted without antipsychotic polypharmacy with an affective spectrum disorder or aged 41-50 or over 51 years old were less likely to be discharged with antipsychotic polypharmacy when compared to patients with psychosis spectrum disorder or aged 18-30 years old. CONCLUSION Approximately three-quarters of admitted patients were treated with antipsychotic medication. Antipsychotic polypharmacy was observed across all psychiatric disorder categories, indicating potential off-label use. Addressing antipsychotic polypharmacy during treatment is challenging, even for specialised facilities. Rational antipsychotic prescribing, deprescribing protocols, and further prescription pattern research are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Blandin Jobe
- Competency Center for Dual Diagnosis, Copenhagen University Hospital - Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Solvej Mårtensson
- Competency Center for Dual Diagnosis, Copenhagen University Hospital - Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Signe Wegmann Düring
- Competency Center for Dual Diagnosis, Copenhagen University Hospital - Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute for Clinical Mediine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Mental Health Services of the Capital Region, Psychiatric Centre, Amager, Denmark
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12
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Davidson M, Carpenter WT. Targeted Treatment of Schizophrenia Symptoms as They Manifest, or Continuous Treatment to Reduce the Risk of Psychosis Recurrence. Schizophr Bull 2024; 50:14-21. [PMID: 37929893 PMCID: PMC10754173 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbad145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Current pharmacological treatment of schizophrenia employs drugs that interfere with dopamine neurotransmission, aiming to suppress acute exacerbation of psychosis and maintenance treatment to reduce the risk of psychosis recurrence. According to this treatment scheme, available psychotropic drugs intended to treat negative symptoms, cognitive impairment, or anxiety are administered as add-ons to treatment with antipsychotics. However, an alternative treatment scheme proposes a targeted or intermittent treatment approach, by which antipsychotic drugs are administered upon psychosis exacerbation and discontinued upon remission or stabilization, while negative symptoms, cognitive impairment, or anxiety are treated with specific psychotropics as monotherapy. Along these lines, antipsychotics are renewed only in the event of recurrence of psychotic symptoms. This 50-year-old debate between targeted and continuous treatment schemes arises from disagreements about interpreting scientific evidence and discordant views regarding benefit/risk assessment. Among the debate's questions are: (1) what is the percentage of individuals who can maintain stability without antipsychotic maintenance treatment, and what is the percentage of those who exacerbate despite antipsychotic treatment? (2) how to interpret results of placebo-controlled 9- to 18-month-long maintenance trials in a life-long chronic disorder, and how to interpret results of the targeted trials, some of which are open label or not randomized; (3) how to weigh the decreased risk for psychotic recurrence vs the almost certainty of adverse effects on patient's quality of life. Patients' profiles, preferences, and circumstances of the care provision should be considered as the targeted vs continuous treatment options are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Davidson
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, Psychiatry, University of Nicosia Medical School, 2414, Nicosia, Cyprus and Minerva Neurosciences, 1500 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803, USA
| | - William T Carpenter
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Maryland Psychiatric Research Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
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13
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Koops S, Allott K, de Haan L, Chen E, Hui C, Killackey E, Long M, Moncrieff J, Sommer I, Stürup AE, Wunderink L, Begemann M. Addressing the Evidence to Practice Gap: What to Expect From International Antipsychotic Dose Reduction Studies in the Tapering Anti-Psychotics and Evaluating Recovery Consortium. Schizophr Bull 2024; 50:5-8. [PMID: 37625022 PMCID: PMC10754158 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbad112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sanne Koops
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Kelly Allott
- Orygen, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lieuwe de Haan
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Arkin, Institute for Mental Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Christy Hui
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Medicine, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Eoin Killackey
- Orygen, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Maria Long
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Health Services Research and Management, City University, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna Moncrieff
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Iris Sommer
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Anne Emilie Stürup
- Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health (CORE), Mental Health Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lex Wunderink
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke Begemann
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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14
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Bickerton L, Kuriakose JL. Management of Cholinergic Rebound After Abrupt Withdrawal of Clozapine: A Case Report and Systematic Literature Review. J Acad Consult Liaison Psychiatry 2024; 65:76-88. [PMID: 37838358 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaclp.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholinergic discontinuation symptoms, also known as "cholinergic rebound," from abrupt clozapine discontinuation are characterized by a range of somatic and psychiatric symptoms. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to describe the clinical features and management options for clozapine withdrawal-associated cholinergic rebound syndrome (henceforth referred to as CWCRS) and present an illustrative case report. METHODS Based on a literature search of the databases PubMed, OVID Medline, and Embase as well as reviewing reference lists of relevant past reviews, we carried out a systematic review of case reports on the management of CWCRS from 1946 to 2023. RESULTS We identified 10 previously published articles on the clinical management of CWCRS, with a total of 18 patients (6 female, 12 male) with an average age of 43 years (standard deviation 14). Half of the patients had a history of tardive dyskinesia. The mean dose of clozapine before discontinuation was 351 mg/day, with duration of clozapine treatment ranging from 3 weeks to 9 years. Clozapine was the most effective treatment, followed by benztropine. CONCLUSIONS Given the small number of cases and the nonexperimental nature of the available studies, this review could not provide reliable data to guide management of CWCRS. The findings, however, suggest that clozapine may be more effective than other commonly used treatment options. With the high rates of discontinuation among patients on clozapine, there is a pressing need for further research into the epidemiology, natural history, and management of clozapine withdrawal syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Bickerton
- Northwell Health, Zucker Hillside Hospital, Glen Oaks, NY.
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15
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Eserian JK, Blanco VP, Mercuri LP, Matos JDR, Galduróz JCF. Current strategies for tapering psychiatric drugs: Differing recommendations, impractical doses, and other barriers. Psychiatry Res 2023; 329:115537. [PMID: 37837810 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
While effective ways to prevent withdrawal symptoms from psychiatric drugs remain unclear, a highly accepted clinical approach for treatment discontinuation is to gradually reduce doses over time. The objective of this review is to gather the current strategies for tapering of psychiatric drugs described in the literature and guidelines in an attempt to identify the most promising one. Literature review and search for practice guidelines provided by government agencies and medical organizations were performed. Different strategies for tapering were found: linear tapering, hyperbolic tapering (by exponential dose reduction and pre-established dose-response curves), extended dosing, and substitution for a long half-life drug. The use of guidelines offers support for patients and prescribers, increasing the likelihood of achieving effective drug discontinuation. Nevertheless, the lack of standardization found among the guidelines makes any attempt to reduce or stop the drug very difficult for prescribers. Hyperbolic tapering by exponential dose reduction appears to be the most promising strategy for psychiatric drug discontinuation. Yet, we still face a constant challenge: how to safely obtain flexible doses for the discontinuation of drugs, particularly during the last steps in which lower doses are required. Further studies are needed to reduce the barriers associated with psychiatric drug discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueline Kalleian Eserian
- Centro de Medicamentos, Cosméticos e Saneantes, Instituto Adolfo Lutz, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 355, Prédio BQ, 5° andar, São Paulo, SP CEP 01246-902, Brazil; Departamento de Psicobiologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo SP, Brazil.
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16
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Roed K, Buus N, Nielsen J, Christensen PS, Midtgaard J. Mental Health Staff's Perspectives on Tapering of Antipsychotic Medication: A Focus Group Study. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:1165-1176. [PMID: 37710394 PMCID: PMC10626979 DOI: 10.1177/10497323231195821] [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] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Contemporary practices of long-term antipsychotic maintenance treatment for schizophrenia are being challenged, and clinicians must consider the possibilities of reducing long-term maintenance use. However, research indicates that people with schizophrenia receive little support from mental health staff to reduce antipsychotic medication. This article reports a study which aimed to investigate interdisciplinary mental health staff's accounts of tapering of antipsychotic medication and to explore different positions that mental health staff assign to themselves and others. Six focus groups were conducted with 39 mental health staff from outpatient clinics, inpatient units, forensic mental health units, and community mental health services. The data analysis combined analyses of the interactions during focus groups and the thematic content. Results were considered from a discourse analytic perspective considering the function and consequence of accounts applied by the mental health staff. The mental health staff accounted for their perspectives on tapering from the following three distinctive positions: 1) No, patients will eventually realize that they need the medication, 2) Yes, but tapering means running a big risk of relapse in symptoms, and 3) Yes, we need to welcome risks to support personal recovery. Our findings indicated that there was reluctance among interdisciplinary mental health staff to let service users make decisions and limited possibilities for people with schizophrenia to have their request for tapering of their antipsychotic medication met by mental health staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kickan Roed
- Mental Health Centre Glostrup, Copenhagen University Hospital – Mental Health Services CPH, Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health Care, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Niels Buus
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Monash Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Jimmi Nielsen
- Mental Health Centre Glostrup, Copenhagen University Hospital – Mental Health Services CPH, Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health Care, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Puk S. Christensen
- Mental Health Centre Ballerup, Copenhagen University Hospital – Mental Health Services CPH, Ballrup, Denmark
| | - Julie Midtgaard
- Mental Health Centre Glostrup, Copenhagen University Hospital – Mental Health Services CPH, Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health Care, Glostrup, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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17
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Chan MMY, Choi CXT, Tsoi TCW, Shea CKS, Yiu KWK, Han YMY. Effects of multisession cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation with cognitive training on sociocognitive functioning and brain dynamics in autism: A double-blind, sham-controlled, randomized EEG study. Brain Stimul 2023; 16:1604-1616. [PMID: 37918630 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2023.10.012] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few treatment options are available for targeting core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The development of treatments that target common neural circuit dysfunctions caused by known genetic defects, namely, disruption of the excitation/inhibition (E/I) balance, is promising. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is capable of modulating the E/I balance in healthy individuals, yet its clinical and neurobiological effects in ASD remain elusive. OBJECTIVE This double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled trial investigated the effects of multisession cathodal prefrontal tDCS coupled with online cognitive remediation on social functioning, information processing efficiency and the E/I balance in ASD patients aged 14-21 years. METHODS Sixty individuals were randomly assigned to receive either active or sham tDCS (10 sessions in total, 20 min/session, stimulation intensity: 1.5 mA, cathode: F3, anode: Fp2, size of electrodes: 25 cm2) combined with 20 min of online cognitive remediation. Social functioning, information processing efficiency during cognitive tasks, and theta- and gamma-band E/I balance were measured one day before and after the treatment. RESULTS Compared to sham tDCS, active cathodal tDCS was effective in enhancing overall social functioning [F(1, 58) = 6.79, p = .012, ηp2 = 0.105, 90% CI: (0.013, 0.234)] and information processing efficiency during cognitive tasks [F(1, 58) = 10.07, p = .002, ηp2 = 0.148, 90% CI: (0.034, 0.284)] in these individuals. Electroencephalography data showed that this cathodal tDCS protocol was effective in reducing the theta-band E/I ratio of the cortical midline structures [F(1, 58) = 4.65, p = .035, ηp2 = 0.074, 90% CI: (0.010, 0.150)] and that this reduction significantly predicted information processing efficiency enhancement (b = -2.546, 95% BCa CI: [-4.979, -0.113], p = .041). CONCLUSION Our results support the use of multisession cathodal tDCS over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex combined with online cognitive remediation for reducing the elevated theta-band E/I ratio in sociocognitive information processing circuits in ASD patients, resulting in more adaptive regulation of global brain dynamics that is associated with enhanced information processing efficiency after the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melody M Y Chan
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Coco X T Choi
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Tom C W Tsoi
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Caroline K S Shea
- Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Klaire W K Yiu
- Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Yvonne M Y Han
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; University Research Facility in Behavioral and Systems Neuroscience (UBSN), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
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18
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Liu CC, Hsieh MH, Chien YL, Liu CM, Lin YT, Hwang TJ, Hwu HG. Guided antipsychotic reduction to reach minimum effective dose (GARMED) in patients with remitted psychosis: a 2-year randomized controlled trial with a naturalistic cohort. Psychol Med 2023; 53:7078-7086. [PMID: 36896797 PMCID: PMC10719630 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723000429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with remitted psychosis face a dilemma between the wish to discontinue antipsychotics and the risk of relapse. We test if an operationalized guided-dose-reduction algorithm can help reach a lower effective dose without increased risks of relapse. METHODS A 2-year open-label randomized prospective comparative cohort trial from Aug 2017 to Sep 2022. Patients with a history of schizophrenia-related psychotic disorders under stable medications and symptoms were eligible, randomized 2:1 into guided dose reduction group (GDR) v. maintenance treatment group (MT1), together with a group of naturalistic maintenance controls (MT2). We observed if the relapse rates would be different between 3 groups, to what extent the dose could be reduced, and if GDR patients could have improved functioning and quality of life. RESULTS A total of 96 patients, comprised 51, 24, and 21 patients in GDR, MT1, and MT2 groups, respectively. During follow-up, 14 patients (14.6%) relapsed, including 6, 4, and 4 from GDR, MT1, and MT2, statistically no difference between groups. In total, 74.5% of GDR patients could stay well under a lower dose, including 18 patients (35.3%) conducting 4 consecutive dose-tapering and staying well after reducing 58.5% of their baseline dose. The GDR group exhibited improved clinical outcomes and endorsed better quality of life. CONCLUSIONS GDR is a feasible approach as the majority of patients had a chance to taper antipsychotics to certain extents. Still, 25.5% of GDR patients could not successfully decrease any dose, including 11.8% experienced relapse, a risk comparable to their maintenance counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Chung Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 10002, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming H. Hsieh
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 10002, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ling Chien
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 10002, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Min Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 10002, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ting Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 10002, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tzung-Jeng Hwang
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 10002, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hai-Gwo Hwu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 10002, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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19
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Han YM, Chan MM, Shea CK, Mo FY, Yiu KW, Chung RC, Cheung MC, Chan AS. Effects of prefrontal transcranial direct current stimulation on social functioning in autism spectrum disorder: A randomized clinical trial. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 27:2465-2482. [PMID: 37151094 DOI: 10.1177/13623613231169547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Currently available pharmacological and behavioral interventions for adolescents and young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) yield only modest effect in alleviating their core behavioral and cognitive symptoms, and some of these treatment options are associated with undesirable side effects. Hence, developing effective treatment protocols is urgently needed. Given emerging evidence shows that the abnormal connections of the frontal brain regions contribute to the manifestations of ASD behavioral and cognitive impairments, noninvasive treatment modalities that are capable in modulating brain connections, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), have been postulated to be potentially promising for alleviating core symptoms in ASD. However, whether tDCS can reduce behavioral symptoms and enhance cognitive performance in ASD remains unclear. This randomized controlled trial involving 105 adolescents and young adults with ASD showed that multiple sessions of a tDCS protocol, which was paired up with computerized cognitive training, was effective in improving social functioning in adolescents and young adults with ASD. No prolonged and serious side effects were observed. With more future studies conducted in different clinical settings that recruit participants from a wider age range, this tDCS protocol may be potentially beneficial to a broad spectrum of individuals with autism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Melody My Chan
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
- The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Caroline Ks Shea
- Hospital Authority, Hong Kong
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Flora Ym Mo
- Hospital Authority, Hong Kong
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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20
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Moncrieff J, Crellin N, Stansfeld J, Cooper R, Marston L, Freemantle N, Lewis G, Hunter R, Johnson S, Barnes T, Morant N, Pinfold V, Smith R, Kent L, Darton K, Long M, Horowitz M, Horne R, Vickerstaff V, Jha M, Priebe S. Antipsychotic dose reduction and discontinuation versus maintenance treatment in people with schizophrenia and other recurrent psychotic disorders in England (the RADAR trial): an open, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial. Lancet Psychiatry 2023; 10:848-859. [PMID: 37778356 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(23)00258-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maintenance antipsychotic medication is recommended for people with schizophrenia or recurrent psychosis, but the adverse effects are burdensome, and evidence on long-term outcomes is sparse. We aimed to assess the benefits and harms of a gradual process of antipsychotic reduction compared with maintenance treatment. Our hypothesis was that antipsychotic reduction would improve social functioning with a short-term increase in relapse. METHODS RADAR was an open, parallel-group, randomised trial done in 19 National Health Service Trusts in England. Participants were aged 18 years and older, had a diagnosis of recurrent, non-affective psychotic disorder, and were prescribed an antipsychotic. Exclusion criteria included people who had a mental health crisis or hospital admission in the past month, were considered to pose a serious risk to themselves or others by a treating clinician, or were mandated to take antipsychotic medication under the Mental Health Act. Through an independent, internet-based system, participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to gradual, flexible antipsychotic reduction, overseen by treating clinicians, or to maintenance. Participants and clinicians were aware of treatment allocations, but assessors were masked to them. Follow-up was for 2 years. Social functioning, assessed by the Social Functioning Scale, was the primary outcome. The principal secondary outcome was severe relapse, defined as requiring admission to hospital. Analysis was done blind to group identity using intention-to-treat data. The trial is completed and has been registered with ISRCTN registry (ISRCTN90298520) and with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03559426). FINDINGS 4157 people were screened, of whom 253 were randomly allocated, including 168 (66%) men, 82 (32%) women, and 3 (1%) transgender people, with a mean age of 46 years (SD 12, range 22-79). 171 (67%) participants were White, 52 (21%) were Black, 16 (6%) were Asian, and 12 (5%) were of other ethnicity. The median dose reduction at any point during the trial was 67% in the reduction group and zero in the maintenance group; at 24 months it was 33% versus zero. At the 24-month follow-up, we assessed 90 of 126 people assigned to the antipsychotic dose reduction group and 94 of 127 assigned to the maintenance group, finding no difference in the Social Functioning Scale (β 0·19, 95% CI -1·94 to 2·33; p=0·86). There were 93 serious adverse events in the reduction group affecting 49 individuals, mainly comprising admission for a mental health relapse, and 64 in the maintenance group, relating to 29 individuals. INTERPRETATION At 2-year follow-up, a gradual, supported process of antipsychotic dose reduction had no effect on social functioning. Our data can help to inform decisions about the use of long-term antipsychotic medication. FUNDING National Institute for Health Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Moncrieff
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; North East London Foundation NHS Trust, London, UK.
| | | | - Jacki Stansfeld
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; North East London Foundation NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Ruth Cooper
- NIHR Mental Health Policy Research Unit, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; East London NHS Foundation Trust, Newham Centre for Mental Health, London, UK
| | - Louise Marston
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK; PRIMENT Clinical trials unit, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nick Freemantle
- Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit, Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Glyn Lewis
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rachael Hunter
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK; PRIMENT Clinical trials unit, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sonia Johnson
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Thomas Barnes
- Division of Psychiatry, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Nicola Morant
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Maria Long
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Department of Health Services Research and Management, City University, London, UK
| | - Mark Horowitz
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; North East London Foundation NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Robert Horne
- School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, UK
| | - Victoria Vickerstaff
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK; PRIMENT Clinical trials unit, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mithilesh Jha
- Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Lincoln, UK
| | - Stefan Priebe
- Unit for Social and Community Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Services Development, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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21
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Schlier B, Buck L, Müller R, Lincoln TM, Bott A, Pillny M. Time-dependent effect of antipsychotic discontinuation and dose reduction on social functioning and subjective quality of life-a multilevel meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 65:102291. [PMID: 38021372 PMCID: PMC10663674 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Meta-analyses indicate superiority of antipsychotic maintenance treatment over discontinuation within up to 24 months after treatment initiation for patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. In terms of functional recovery, long-term trials show improved functioning after discontinuation, suggesting a time-dependent effect of antipsychotic maintenance. However, these trials were not included in previous meta-analyses. We therefore investigated whether the effect of antipsychotic maintenance treatment vs. discontinuation on social functioning and quality of life varies by trial length. Methods The study was preregistered with PROSPERO (CRD42021248933). PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Embase and trial registers were systematically searched on 8th November 2021 and updated on 25th June, 2023 and 10th August, 2023 for studies that compared antipsychotic maintenance to discontinuation and reported data on social functioning or subjective quality of life in patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. Risk of bias was assessed with the RoB 2, the ROBINS-I and the RoB-ME tools. Quality of evidence was rated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. Findings We included k = 35 studies (N = 5924) with follow-ups between one month and 15 years. Overall, maintenance and discontinuation did not differ on social functioning (k = 32; n = 5330; SMD = 0.204; p = 0.65; 95% CI [-0.69, 1.10]) or quality of life (k = 10; n = 943; SMD = -0.004; p = 0.97; 95% CI [-0.22, 0.21]), whilst subgroup analyses of middle- (2-5 years; k = 7; n = 1032; SMD = 0.68; 95% CI [0.06, 1.28]) and long-term follow-ups (>5 years; k = 2; n = 356; SMD = 1.04; 95% CI [0.82, 1.27]) significantly favoured discontinuation. However, the quality of evidence was rated as very low. Interpretation Although our findings suggest a time-dependent decrease in the effect of maintenance treatment on social functioning, interpretation of these findings is limited by the serious risk of bias in middle- and long-term trials. Therefore, any conclusions regarding the long-term benefits of antipsychotic treatment or discontinuation for functional recovery are premature and more high-quality trials tailored to comparing state of the art maintenance treatment vs. discontinuation are needed. Funding None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn Schlier
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Human Movement Science, Universität Hamburg, Germany
| | - Laura Buck
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Human Movement Science, Universität Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
| | - Rebecca Müller
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Human Movement Science, Universität Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tania M. Lincoln
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Human Movement Science, Universität Hamburg, Germany
| | - Antonia Bott
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Human Movement Science, Universität Hamburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Pillny
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Human Movement Science, Universität Hamburg, Germany
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22
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Wilson M, Harris M, Pereira M, Buckle J, Forshall E, Murphy T, Thompson A, Kavanagh G, Whale R. Predictors of hospitalisation and recovery following full antipsychotic discontinuation in first episode psychosis. A naturalistic retrospective cohort study. Schizophr Res 2023; 261:269-274. [PMID: 37862826 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2023.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Whilst antipsychotic medication reduces risk of relapse following a first episode of psychosis (FEP), some individuals can discontinue medication and remain relapse free. We aimed to identify patient and service-specific factors which influence clinical outcome following antipsychotic discontinuation. The outcomes 'admission to hospital' and 'remaining free from psychotic symptoms', both within one year from discontinuation, were explored retrospectively in an established naturalistic cohort of 354 patients with FEP. Logistic regression analysis was used to explore influence of routinely available baseline and treatment course variables on these outcomes. Seventy-seven individuals (22 %) fully discontinued antipsychotic treatment within a year, at mean 102 days from initiation. Only antipsychotic type had significant association with discontinuation; aripiprazole was discontinued more than olanzapine (p = 0.028). Seventeen individuals required admission to hospital; significantly associated with prior admission at first illness onset (p = 0.004), and prior legal detention to hospital (p = 0.001). Admission was less likely in those discontinuing aripiprazole vs olanzapine (p = 0.044). Twenty-four patients remained psychosis symptom free and were most significantly likely to have received clinician support in discontinuation; this group had no association with either initial duration of untreated psychosis or prior duration of antipsychotic treatment. Future studies exploring outcomes following antipsychotic discontinuation require consistency of choice of outcome measures and sample stratification by vulnerability factors including severity of first illness episode, whether remaining symptom free after first episode, which medication switched from and baseline functioning. The impact and nature of clinician support to discontinue requires further exploration alongside its association with abruptness of discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marco Pereira
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Portugal
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Richard Whale
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, UK; Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, UK.
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23
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Morant N, Long M, Jayacodi S, Cooper R, Akther-Robertson J, Stansfeld J, Horowitz M, Priebe S, Moncrieff J. Experiences of reduction and discontinuation of antipsychotics: a qualitative investigation within the RADAR trial. EClinicalMedicine 2023; 64:102135. [PMID: 37936655 PMCID: PMC10626156 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Antipsychotics are a core treatment for psychosis, but the evidence for gradual dose reductions guided by clinicians is under-developed. The RADAR randomised controlled trial (RCT) compared antipsychotic reduction and possible discontinuation with maintenance treatment for people with recurrent psychotic disorders. The current study explored participants' experiences of antipsychotic reduction or discontinuation within this trial. Methods This qualitative study was embedded within the RADAR RCT (April 2017-March 2022) that recruited 253 participants from specialist community mental health services in 19 public healthcare localities in England. Participants were adults with recurrent non affective psychosis who were taking antipsychotic medication. Semi-structured interviews, lasting 30-90 min, were conducted after the trial final 24-month follow-up with 26 people who reduced and/or discontinued antipsychotics within the trial, sampled purposively for diversity in sociodemographic characteristics, trial variables, and pre-trial medication and clinical factors. Data were analysed using thematic analysis and findings are reported qualitatively. Findings Most participants reported reduced adverse effects of antipsychotics with dose reductions, primarily in mental clouding, emotional blunting and sedation, and some positive impacts on social functioning and sense of self. Over half experienced deteriorations in mental health, including psychotic symptoms and intolerable levels of emotional intensity. Nine had a psychotic relapse. The trial context in which medication reduction was explicitly part of clinical care provided various learning opportunities. Some participants were highly engaged with reduction processes, and despite difficulties including relapses, developed novel perspectives on medication, dose optimisation, and how to manage their mental health. Others were more ambivalent about reduction or experienced less overall impact. Interpretation Experiences of antipsychotic reductions over two years were dynamic and diverse, shaped by variations in dose reduction profiles, reduction effects, personal motivation and engagement levels, and relationships with prescribers. There are relapse risks and challenges, but some people experience medication reduction done with clinical guidance as empowering. Clinicians can use findings to inform and work flexibly with service users to establish optimal antipsychotic doses. Funding National Institute for Health Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Morant
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Maria Long
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Health Services Research & Management, City University, London, UK
- Research & Development Department, North East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Ruth Cooper
- Unit for Social and Community Psychiatry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- East London NHS Foundation Trust, Newham Centre for Mental Health, London, UK
- NIHR Mental Health Policy Research Unit, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | | | - Jacki Stansfeld
- Research & Development Department, North East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Mark Horowitz
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- Research & Development Department, North East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Stefan Priebe
- Unit for Social and Community Psychiatry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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24
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Howe J, Lindsey L. The role of pharmacists in supporting service users to optimise antipsychotic medication. Int J Clin Pharm 2023; 45:1293-1298. [PMID: 37704913 PMCID: PMC10600309 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-023-01630-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacists have a contribution to make in improving optimising medication use for people on antipsychotic medication. The rates of prescribing antipsychotics have increased in England with an 18% rise from 2015 to 2020. People on antipsychotic medication are not treated as equal partners in conversations about their medications. This can leave people to make decisions about their antipsychotic medications without input from their prescribers which can have significant consequences for individuals. Involving people in the decision-making process, as experts on their own condition, has the potential to improve treatment outcomes. The evidence suggests that involving pharmacists in supporting people with serious mental illnesses will lead to improved clinical outcomes. Key areas for pharmacist involvement are providing information, education and counselling on antipsychotic medication and the side effects and reducing polypharmacy especially when antipsychotics are prescribed off license.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Howe
- School of Pharmacy, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, England.
| | - Laura Lindsey
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU, England
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25
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O’Neill JR, Taylor DM, Horowitz MA. Implementing gradual, hyperbolic tapering of long-acting injectable antipsychotics by prolonging the inter-dose interval: an in silico modelling study. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2023; 13:20451253231198463. [PMID: 37719449 PMCID: PMC10501077 DOI: 10.1177/20451253231198463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Gradual, hyperbolic tapering has been proposed as a method to reduce the risk of withdrawal effects and potential relapse of an underlying condition by minimising disruption of existing equilibria. We applied hyperbolic tapering principles in silico to long-acting aripiprazole to generate regimens for withdrawal in clinical practice. We derived thresholds for taper rates using existing studies and consensus. Using pharmacokinetic data for aripiprazole long-acting injectable antipsychotic (ALAI), we conducted in silico modelling to examine the impact of abrupt cessation of long-acting injectable antipsychotic (LAI) medication and the effect of prolonging inter-dose interval on plasma aripiprazole levels and consequent D2 occupancy. We also modelled transitions from LAI medication to oral medication. Regimens were designed to afford a rate of reduction between 5 and 12.5 percentage points of D2 occupancy per month. Abrupt discontinuation of ALAI was shown to lead to a maximal D2 occupancy reduction of 16.8 percentage points per month; prolongation of the inter-dose interval of ALAI produced a slower reduction. Specifically, hyperbolic tapering was afforded by prolongation of a 400 mg ALAI inter-dose interval from 4 to 7 weeks, before reducing the dose to 300 mg ALAI. This could then be administered at up to 4-week (for 6% maximal D2 occupancy change), 6-week (9% change) or 7-week (11% change) intervals. Switching to oral medication - 5, 2.5 and 1.25 mg for the three regimens, respectively - is required for ALAI to complete full cessation to prevent too rapid a reduction in D2 occupancy. Oral medication should probably be maintained at a consistent dose for 3-6 months before further reductions to account for residual LAI being concurrently eliminated. Hyperbolic dose tapering is possible with ALAI through prolongation of the inter-dose interval and may reduce the risk of relapse compared to abrupt discontinuation of LAI medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R. O’Neill
- South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Newton Lodge, Ouchthorpe Lane, Wakefield WF1 3SP, UK
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26
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Taylor D, Chithiramohan R, Grewal J, Gupta A, Hansen L, Reynolds GP, Pappa S. Dopamine partial agonists: a discrete class of antipsychotics. Int J Psychiatry Clin Pract 2023; 27:272-284. [PMID: 36495086 DOI: 10.1080/13651501.2022.2151473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, there are now three marketed dopamine D2 partial agonists: aripiprazole, brexpiprazole and cariprazine. These three drugs share a number of properties other than their action at D2 receptors. Pharmacologically, they are 5HT2 antagonists and D3 and 5HT1A partial agonists but with little or no alpha-adrenergic, anticholinergic or antihistaminic activity. They also share a long duration of action. Clinically, D2 partial agonists are effective antipsychotics and generally have useful antimanic and antidepressant activity. They are usually well tolerated, causing akathisia and insomnia only at the start of treatment, and are non-sedating. These drugs also share a very low risk of increased prolactin and of weight gain and accompanying metabolic effects. They may also have a relatively low risk of tardive dyskinesia. There is some evidence that they are preferred by patients to dopamine antagonists. Individual dopamineD2 partial agonists have much in common and as a group they differ importantly from dopamine D2 antagonists. Dopamine D2 partial agonists should be considered a distinct class of antipsychotics.Key pointsD2 partial agonists share many pharmacological and clinical propertiesD2 partial agonists differ in several important respects from D2 antagonistsD2 partial agonists should be considered a discrete class of antipsychotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Taylor
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, UK
- Pharmacy Department, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | | | - Avirup Gupta
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Lars Hansen
- Southampton University, Hartley Library B12, Southampton, UK
- Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Gavin P Reynolds
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sofia Pappa
- Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
- West London NHS Trust, London, UK
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27
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Liu CC, Hsieh MH, Chien YL, Liu CM, Lin YT, Hwang TJ, Hwu HG. Dose-tapering trajectories in patients with remitted psychosis undergoing guided antipsychotic reduction to reach minimum effective dose. Eur Psychiatry 2023; 66:e66. [PMID: 37578111 PMCID: PMC10594210 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2023.2440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with remitted psychosis wish to reduce antipsychotic doses yet facing increased risks of relapse. Examining dose-tapering processes may provide insights to re-evaluate the risk-to-benefit balance. We aimed to depict and subgroup tapering trajectories, and explore factors associated with different dose-reduction patterns. METHODS A 2-year open-label randomized prospective comparative trial from August 2017 to September 2022 in Taiwan. Patients with a history of schizophrenia-related psychotic disorders under stable medications and symptoms were eligible, randomizing a proportion to conduct guided dose reduction. We depicted the trajectories of individual patients and named subgroups based on dose-tapering patterns. Predictors of baseline characteristics for designated subgroups were examined by logistic regression analysis; changes in outcomes were compared by paired t-test. RESULTS Fifty-one patients undergoing guided dose reduction, 18 (35.3%) reduced 4 steps consecutively (sequential reducers, SR), 14 (27.5%) reduced 1 to 3 steps (modest reducers, MR), 3 (5.9%) re-escalated to previous level (alert reducers, AR), 7 (13.7%) returned to baseline level (baseline returners, BR), 6 (11.7%) relapsed (failed reducers, FR) and 3 (5.9%) withdrew without relapse (early exits, EE). Patients with a history of relapse assumed a conservative dose-tapering pace; only the SR subgroup exhibited significant improvements in functioning and quality of life while failing to identify variables for predicting who would become SR or FR. CONCLUSIONS Guided dose reduction comprises dynamic processes with differences between individual trajectories. The proposed naming of dose-tapering patterns/subgroups provides a framework depicting patients undergoing dose-tapering. Longer-term observation and more flexible tapering approaches are anticipated to reveal favorable outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Chung Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming H. Hsieh
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ling Chien
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Min Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ting Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tzung-Jeng Hwang
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hai-Gwo Hwu
- Department of Psychiatry, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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28
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Korchia T, Abdelhafez H, Bretelle A, Joober R, Palaniyappan L. Collaborative discontinuation of antipsychotics after the first episode of psychosis. J Psychiatry Neurosci 2023; 48:E265-E266. [PMID: 37402580 PMCID: PMC10729749 DOI: 10.1503/220223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Theo Korchia
- From the Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Que. (Korchia, Abdelhafez, Joober, Palaniyappan); the Aix-Marseille University, Department of Psychiatry, Marseille, France (Korchia, Bretelle); the Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, Ont. (Palaniyappan)
| | - Hani Abdelhafez
- From the Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Que. (Korchia, Abdelhafez, Joober, Palaniyappan); the Aix-Marseille University, Department of Psychiatry, Marseille, France (Korchia, Bretelle); the Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, Ont. (Palaniyappan)
| | - Alice Bretelle
- From the Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Que. (Korchia, Abdelhafez, Joober, Palaniyappan); the Aix-Marseille University, Department of Psychiatry, Marseille, France (Korchia, Bretelle); the Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, Ont. (Palaniyappan)
| | - Ridha Joober
- From the Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Que. (Korchia, Abdelhafez, Joober, Palaniyappan); the Aix-Marseille University, Department of Psychiatry, Marseille, France (Korchia, Bretelle); the Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, Ont. (Palaniyappan)
| | - Lena Palaniyappan
- From the Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Que. (Korchia, Abdelhafez, Joober, Palaniyappan); the Aix-Marseille University, Department of Psychiatry, Marseille, France (Korchia, Bretelle); the Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, Ont. (Palaniyappan)
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29
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Lincoln TM, Sommer D, Quazzola M, Witzgall T, Schlier B. Predictors of successful discontinuation of antipsychotics and antidepressants. Psychol Med 2023; 53:3085-3095. [PMID: 34937582 PMCID: PMC10235642 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291721005146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To offer support for patients who decide to discontinue antipsychotic and antidepressant medication, identifying which potentially modifiable factors correlate with discontinuation success is crucial. Here, we analyzed the predictive value of the professional support received, circumstances prior to discontinuation, a strategy of discontinuation, and use of functional and non-functional coping strategies during discontinuation on self-reported discontinuation success and on objective discontinuation. METHODS Patients who had attempted discontinuing antipsychotics (AP) and/or antidepressants (AD) during the past 5 years (n = 316) completed an online survey including questions on subjective and objective discontinuation success, sociodemographic, clinical and medication-related factors, and scales to assess the putative predictors. RESULTS A regression model with all significant predictors explained 20-30% of the variance in discontinuation success for AD and 30-40% for AP. After controlling for baseline sociodemographic, clinical and medication-related factors, the most consistent predictor of subjective discontinuation success was self-care behavior, in particular mindfulness, relaxation and making use of supportive relationships. Other predictors depended on the type of medication: For AD, good alliance with the prescribing physician predicted higher subjective success whereas gradual tapering per se was associated with lower subjective success and a lower chance of full discontinuation. In those tapering off AP, leaving time to adjust between dose reductions was associated with higher subjective success and fewer negative effects. CONCLUSIONS The findings can inform evidence-based clinical guidelines and interventions aiming to support patients during discontinuation. Further studies powered to take interactions between variables into account are needed to improve the prediction of successful discontinuation.
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30
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Haddad PM, Correll CU. Long-acting antipsychotics in the treatment of schizophrenia: opportunities and challenges. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:473-493. [PMID: 36919576 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2023.2181073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Maintenance antipsychotic treatment improves multiple outcomes in people with schizophrenia. These benefits are challenged by medication nonadherence, which is a common occurrence. Long-acting injectable antipsychotic (LAI) formulations were developed to reduce nonadherence and thereby improve outcomes. This narrative review is based on a PubMed search (January 2000 - August 2022) for studies on LAI antipsychotics. AREAS COVERED Opportunities and challenges associated with LAIs are reviewed. Advantages, compared to oral antipsychotics (OAs), include improved adherence, reduced relapse and hospitalization risk, delayed and lower relapse risk after stopping treatment, and the ability to differentiate true treatment resistance from 'pseudo'-resistance. Additionally, LAIs are associated with lower all-cause mortality than OAs. LAIs are under-used in many services, partly reflecting negative attitudes, misconceptions, and lack of knowledge among clinicians, patients, and carers. Practical barriers to LAI use include acquisition costs and inadequate service structures to administer/monitor LAI treatment. EXPERT OPINION The education and engagement of clinicians, patients and caregivers can assist more informed decision-making regarding LAIs. Future research regarding LAIs should encompass multiple complementary designs, focus on functionality and recovery outcomes, and include groups at high risk of relapse, including those with comorbid substance use disorders and early in the course of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Haddad
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,Mental Health, Drugs and Alcohol Services (MHDAS), Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Christoph U Correll
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA.,Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Hempstead, NY, USA.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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31
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Brandt L, Ritter K, Schneider-Thoma J, Siafis S, Montag C, Ayrilmaz H, Bermpohl F, Hasan A, Heinz A, Leucht S, Gutwinski S, Stuke H. Predicting psychotic relapse following randomised discontinuation of paliperidone in individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder: an individual participant data analysis. Lancet Psychiatry 2023; 10:184-196. [PMID: 36804071 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(23)00008-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Predicting relapse for individuals with psychotic disorders is not well established, especially after discontinuation of antipsychotic treatment. We aimed to identify general prognostic factors of relapse for all participants (irrespective of treatment continuation or discontinuation) and specific predictors of relapse for treatment discontinuation, using machine learning. METHODS For this individual participant data analysis, we searched the Yale University Open Data Access Project's database for placebo-controlled, randomised antipsychotic discontinuation trials with participants with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder (aged ≥18 years). We included studies in which participants were treated with any antipsychotic study drug and randomly assigned to continue the same antipsychotic drug or to discontinue it and receive placebo. We assessed 36 prespecified baseline variables at randomisation to predict time to relapse, using univariate and multivariate proportional hazard regression models (including multivariate treatment group by variable interactions) with machine learning to categorise the variables as general prognostic factors of relapse, specific predictors of relapse, or both. FINDINGS We identified 414 trials, of which five trials with 700 participants (304 [43%] women and 396 [57%] men) were eligible for the continuation group and 692 participants (292 [42%] women and 400 [58%] men) were eligible for the discontinuation group (median age 37 [IQR 28-47] years for continuation group and 38 [28-47] years for discontinuation group). Out of the 36 baseline variables, general prognostic factors of increased risk of relapse for all participants were drug-positive urine; paranoid, disorganised, and undifferentiated types of schizophrenia (lower risk for schizoaffective disorder); psychiatric and neurological adverse events; higher severity of akathisia (ie, difficulty or inability to sit still); antipsychotic discontinuation; lower social performance; younger age; lower glomerular filtration rate; benzodiazepine comedication (lower risk for anti-epileptic comedication). Out of the 36 baseline variables, predictors of increased risk specifically after antipsychotic discontinuation were increased prolactin concentration, higher number of hospitalisations, and smoking. Both prognostic factors and predictors with increased risk after discontinuation were oral antipsychotic treatment (lower risk for long-acting injectables), higher last dosage of the antipsychotic study drug, shorter duration of antipsychotic treatment, and higher score on the Clinical Global Impression (CGI) severity scale The predictive performance (concordance index) for participants who were not used to train the model was 0·707 (chance level is 0·5). INTERPRETATION Routinely available general prognostic factors of psychotic relapse and predictors specific for treatment discontinuation could be used to support personalised treatment. Abrupt discontinuation of higher dosages of oral antipsychotics, especially for individuals with recurring hospitalisations, higher scores on the CGI severity scale, and increased prolactin concentrations, should be avoided to reduce the risk of relapse. FUNDING German Research Foundation and Berlin Institute of Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lasse Brandt
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité Campus Mitte, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Kerstin Ritter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité Campus Mitte, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany; Bernstein Center of Computational Neuroscience Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Johannes Schneider-Thoma
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Spyridon Siafis
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Christiane Montag
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité Campus Mitte, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hakan Ayrilmaz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité Campus Mitte, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Felix Bermpohl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité Campus Mitte, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany; Berlin School of Mind and Brain, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alkomiet Hasan
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University of Augsburg, Medical Faculty, Bezirkskrankenhaus Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Heinz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité Campus Mitte, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany; Bernstein Center of Computational Neuroscience Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Berlin School of Mind and Brain, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan Leucht
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Gutwinski
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité Campus Mitte, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Heiner Stuke
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité Campus Mitte, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany; Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Harrow
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Thomas H Jobe
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Liping Tong
- Advocate Aurora Health, Downers Grove, IL, USA
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Nandula SA, Boddepalli CS, Gutlapalli SD, Lavu VK, Abdelwahab Mohamed Abdelwahab R, Huang R, Hamid P. A Systematic Review of the Need for Guideline Recommendations; Slow Tapering vs. Maintenance Dose in Long-Term Antipsychotic Treatment: 2022. Cureus 2023; 15:e34746. [PMID: 36777974 PMCID: PMC9904861 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.34746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The act of discontinuing the antipsychotic medication may be directly associated with relapse. This relationship might be due to adaptations that continue to exist after treatment is stopped, such as dopaminergic hypersensitivity. Therefore, more progressive weaning off antipsychotic medication may help reduce the likelihood of relapse when the medication is stopped. As there is a need to gradually reduce or stop using antipsychotic medication, our team tried to conduct a more in-depth search to give further answers to the suggested recommendations. Around 192 articles were gathered for our research, but we could only narrow our search to 36, which were further filtered, and eight were used. We went through all of the pertinent information available until May 2022 and reviewed it to determine the risks associated with prolonged antipsychotic usage and abrupt cessation in the psychotic spectrum of diseases. PubMed, Google Scholar, and Psychiatry Online were the databases used, and the keywords that were looked for and utilized were antipsychotics, tapering, relapse, maintenance dosage, schizophrenia, and psychosis. The recurrence incidence was high in patients in whom antipsychotics were stopped and in whom the dosage was quickly lowered. Patients who were gradually weaned off their antipsychotic medication and kept on the lowest effective dose had a much lower risk of experiencing a relapse. We suggest more studies, including randomized clinical trials and monitoring, considering the enhancement of guidelines for the total cessation of antipsychotic medication use.
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Takeuchi H, Watabe K. Does short-term antipsychotic discontinuation of up to 3 weeks worsen symptoms in acute schizophrenia? A pooled analysis of placebo washout data. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2023. [PMID: 36700595 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.13534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to examine symptom changes during short-term discontinuation of antipsychotics up to 3 weeks including the placebo washout phase in acute schizophrenia. METHODS The data from three double-blind, randomized, controlled trials comparing lurasidone versus placebo in patients with acute exacerbation of schizophrenia were analyzed. Symptom severity was assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) total and the Clinical Global Impression-Severity scale (CGI-S) scores. The scores before and after the antipsychotic discontinuation phase were compared, and factors associated with score changes were explored. RESULTS Among 2154 patients participating in the trials, 600 who received antipsychotic monotherapy and completed the antipsychotic discontinuation phase were included in the analysis. No patients received clozapine. The mean duration of the discontinuation phase was 5.9 ± 2.5 days. The PANSS total and CGI-S scores significantly changed from 94.0 ± 9.5 to 95.4 ± 10.5 (P < 0.001) and from 4.9 ± 0.6 to 4.9 ± 0.7 (P = 0.041), respectively, during this phase; however, the absolute difference was minimal. The score changes were not associated with the type or dose of prior antipsychotics, or the duration or strategy (abrupt vs gradual) of antipsychotic discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS Symptoms may not worsen to a clinically meaningful degree after short-term discontinuation of non-clozapine antipsychotics up to 3 weeks in patients with acute exacerbation of schizophrenia, suggesting that antipsychotic efficacy persists at least several days after discontinuation. This finding supports once-daily dosing regimen of antipsychotics and abrupt antipsychotic discontinuation when switching to another antipsychotic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyoshi Takeuchi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kei Watabe
- Department of Data Science, Drug Development Division, Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
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Bogers JPAM, Hambarian G, Walburgh Schmidt N, Vermeulen JM, de Haan L. Risk Factors for Psychotic Relapse After Dose Reduction or Discontinuation of Antipsychotics in Patients With Chronic Schizophrenia. A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Schizophr Bull 2023; 49:11-23. [PMID: 36200866 PMCID: PMC9810020 DOI: 10.1093/schbul/sbac138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS Although maintenance treatment with antipsychotics protects against psychotic relapse, high doses may hamper recovery. Therefore, dose reduction or discontinuation may be considered in patients with chronic schizophrenia. Here, we identified risk factors for psychotic relapse when doses are reduced. STUDY DESIGN We systematically searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO from January 1950 through January 2021 and reviewed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that reported relapse rates after antipsychotic dose reduction or discontinuation in patients with chronic schizophrenia. We calculated relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) per person-year and sought to identify potential risk factors for relapse. The study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42017058296). STUDY RESULTS Forty-seven RCTs (54 patient cohorts, 1746 person-years) were included. The RR for psychotic relapse with dose reduction/discontinuation versus maintenance treatment was 2.3 per person-year (95% CI: 1.9 to 2.8). The RR was higher with antipsychotic discontinuation, dose reduction to less than 3-5 mg haloperidol equivalent (HE), or relatively rapid dose reduction (<10 weeks). The RR was lower with long-acting injectable agents versus oral antipsychotic dose reduction. Other factors that increased the risk of psychotic relapse were younger age and short follow-up time. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians should take several risk factors for psychotic relapse into account when considering dose reduction in patients with chronic schizophrenia. Studies of a relatively fast reduction in antipsychotic dose support a minimum dose of 3-5 mg HE. However, if the dose is tapered more gradually, relapses related to medication withdrawal might be avoided, possibly enabling lower-end doses to be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan P A M Bogers
- High Care Clinics and Rivierduinen Academy, Mental Health Services Rivierduinen, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Jentien M Vermeulen
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lieuwe de Haan
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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van Os J, Groot PC. Outcomes of hyperbolic tapering of antidepressants. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2023; 13:20451253231171518. [PMID: 37200818 PMCID: PMC10185864 DOI: 10.1177/20451253231171518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In patients attempting to discontinue their antidepressant medication, there have been no prospective studies on patterns of withdrawal as a function of the rate of antidepressant reduction during the tapering trajectory, and moderators thereof. Objective To investigate withdrawal as a function of gradual dose reduction. Design Prospective cohort study. Methods The sampling frame consisted of 3956 individuals in the Netherlands who received an antidepressant tapering strip between 19 May 2019 and 22 March 2022 in routine clinical practice. Of these, 608 patients, majorly with previous unsuccessful attempts to stop, provided daily ratings of withdrawal in the context of reducing their antidepressant medications (mostly venlafaxine or paroxetine), using hyperbolic tapering strips offering daily tiny reductions in dose. Results Withdrawal in daily-step hyperbolic tapering trajectories was limited, and inverse to the rate of taper. Female sex, younger age, presence of one or more risk factors and faster rate of reduction over shorter tapering trajectories were associated with more withdrawal and differential course over time. Thus, sex and age differences were less marked early in the course of the trajectory, whereas differences associated with risk factors and shorter trajectories tended to peak early in the trajectory. There was evidence that tapering in weekly larger steps (mean per-week dose reduction: 33.4% of previous dose), in comparison with daily tiny steps (mean per-day dose reduction: 4.5% of previous dose or 25.3% per week), was associated with more withdrawal in trajectories of 1, 2 or 3 months, particularly for paroxetine and the group of other (non-paroxetine, non-venlafaxine) antidepressants. Conclusion Antidepressant hyperbolic tapering is associated with limited, rate-dependent withdrawal that is inverse to the rate of taper. The demonstration of multiple demographic, risk and complex temporal moderators in time series of withdrawal data indicates that antidepressant tapering in clinical practice requires a personalised process of shared decision making over the entire course of the tapering period.
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Majdinasab E, Haque S, Stark A, Krutsch K, Hale TW. Psychiatric Manifestations of Withdrawal Following Domperidone Used as a Galactagogue. Breastfeed Med 2022; 17:1018-1024. [PMID: 36367713 DOI: 10.1089/bfm.2022.0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Domperidone is a dopamine-2 antagonist used off-label to increase breast milk production. Dosages commonly promoted for lactation are often far above those of studied on-label indications and might pose additional risks, especially upon discontinuation of the drug. Patients: Three U.S. patients are presented who used domperidone for lactation and experienced varying degrees of psychiatric withdrawal symptoms lasting months during dosage tapering and after cessation. Conclusion: Domperidone as a galactagogue may pose a significant psychiatric risk upon discontinuation. This presentation is commonly confused with, but clinically distinct from, postpartum depression. Lactating mothers who present with psychiatric symptoms should be explicitly probed about domperidone use, even in areas where domperidone is not authorized for use. Maternal hesitancy to disclose domperidone use may lead to suboptimal outcomes for the patient and delay management of withdrawal manifestations. The best course of treatment remains unknown, but a slow hyperbolic taper to gently discontinue domperidone may minimize withdrawal symptoms in these patients. Individuals exploring domperidone use should be informed of potential risks upon withdrawal, including psychiatric manifestations, requisite taper, and potential impacts of using unstudied high doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elleana Majdinasab
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Sarah Haque
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Amy Stark
- Department of Psychiatry, and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Kaytlin Krutsch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas, USA
| | - Thomas W Hale
- Department of Pediatrics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, Texas, USA
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Rodolico A, Siafis S, Bighelli I, Samara MT, Hansen WP, Salomone S, Aguglia E, Cutrufelli P, Bauer I, Baeckers L, Leucht S. Antipsychotic dose reduction compared to dose continuation for people with schizophrenia. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 11:CD014384. [PMID: 36420692 PMCID: PMC9685497 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014384.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antipsychotic drugs are the mainstay treatment for schizophrenia, yet they are associated with diverse and potentially dose-related side effects which can reduce quality of life. For this reason, the lowest possible doses of antipsychotics are generally recommended, but higher doses are often used in clinical practice. It is still unclear if and how antipsychotic doses could be reduced safely in order to minimise the adverse-effect burden without increasing the risk of relapse. OBJECTIVES To assess the efficacy and safety of reducing antipsychotic dose compared to continuing the current dose for people with schizophrenia. SEARCH METHODS We conducted a systematic search on 10 February 2021 at the Cochrane Schizophrenia Group's Study-Based Register of Trials, which is based on CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov, ISRCTN, and WHO ICTRP. We also inspected the reference lists of included studies and previous reviews. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any dose reduction against continuation in people with schizophrenia or related disorders who were stabilised on their current antipsychotic treatment. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: At least two review authors independently screened relevant records for inclusion, extracted data from eligible studies, and assessed the risk of bias using RoB 2. We contacted study authors for missing data and additional information. Our primary outcomes were clinically important change in quality of life, rehospitalisations and dropouts due to adverse effects; key secondary outcomes were clinically important change in functioning, relapse, dropouts for any reason, and at least one adverse effect. We also examined scales measuring symptoms, quality of life, and functioning as well as a comprehensive list of specific adverse effects. We pooled outcomes at the endpoint preferably closest to one year. We evaluated the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. MAIN RESULTS We included 25 RCTs, of which 22 studies provided data with 2635 participants (average age 38.4 years old). The median study sample size was 60 participants (ranging from 18 to 466 participants) and length was 37 weeks (ranging from 12 weeks to 2 years). There were variations in the dose reduction strategies in terms of speed of reduction (i.e. gradual in about half of the studies (within 2 to 16 weeks) and abrupt in the other half), and in terms of degree of reduction (i.e. median planned reduction of 66% of the dose up to complete withdrawal in three studies). We assessed risk of bias across outcomes predominantly as some concerns or high risk. No study reported data on the number of participants with a clinically important change in quality of life or functioning, and only eight studies reported continuous data on scales measuring quality of life or functioning. There was no difference between dose reduction and continuation on scales measuring quality of life (standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.01, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.17 to 0.15, 6 RCTs, n = 719, I2 = 0%, moderate certainty evidence) and scales measuring functioning (SMD 0.03, 95% CI -0.10 to 0.17, 6 RCTs, n = 966, I2 = 0%, high certainty evidence). Dose reduction in comparison to continuation may increase the risk of rehospitalisation based on data from eight studies with estimable effect sizes; however, the 95% CI does not exclude the possibility of no difference (risk ratio (RR) 1.53, 95% CI 0.84 to 2.81, 8 RCTs, n = 1413, I2 = 59% (moderate heterogeneity), very low certainty evidence). Similarly, dose reduction increased the risk of relapse based on data from 20 studies (RR 2.16, 95% CI 1.52 to 3.06, 20 RCTs, n = 2481, I2 = 70% (substantial heterogeneity), low certainty evidence). More participants in the dose reduction group in comparison to the continuation group left the study early due to adverse effects (RR 2.20, 95% CI 1.39 to 3.49, 6 RCTs with estimable effect sizes, n = 1079, I2 = 0%, moderate certainty evidence) and for any reason (RR 1.38, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.81, 12 RCTs, n = 1551, I2 = 48% (moderate heterogeneity), moderate certainty evidence). Lastly, there was no difference between the dose reduction and continuation groups in the number of participants with at least one adverse effect based on data from four studies with estimable effect sizes (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.12, 5 RCTs, n = 998 (4 RCTs, n = 980 with estimable effect sizes), I2 = 0%, moderate certainty evidence). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: This review synthesised the latest evidence on the reduction of antipsychotic doses for stable individuals with schizophrenia. There was no difference between dose reduction and continuation groups in quality of life, functioning, and number of participants with at least one adverse effect. However, there was a higher risk for relapse and dropouts, and potentially for rehospitalisations, with dose reduction. Of note, the majority of the trials focused on relapse prevention rather potential beneficial outcomes on quality of life, functioning, and adverse effects, and in some studies there was rapid and substantial reduction of doses. Further well-designed RCTs are therefore needed to provide more definitive answers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Rodolico
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Spyridon Siafis
- Section for Evidence Based Medicine in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Irene Bighelli
- Section for Evidence Based Medicine in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Myrto T Samara
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | | | - Salvatore Salomone
- Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Eugenio Aguglia
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Pierfelice Cutrufelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Psychiatry Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Ingrid Bauer
- Section for Evidence Based Medicine in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical Faculty, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Lio Baeckers
- Section for Evidence Based Medicine in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Leucht
- Section for Evidence Based Medicine in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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Boland M, Higgins A, Beecher C, Bracken P, Burn W, Cody A, Framer A, Gronlund TA, Horowitz M, Huff C, Jayacodi S, Keating D, Kessler D, Konradsson Geuken A, Lamberson N, Montagu L, Osborne B, Smith R, Cadogan C. Priorities for future research on reducing and stopping psychiatric medicines using a James Lind Alliance priority setting partnership: The PROTECT study protocol. HRB Open Res 2022; 5:72. [PMID: 37636245 PMCID: PMC10450262 DOI: 10.12688/hrbopenres.13649.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a growing number of service users looking to discontinue use of psychiatric medicines. Tapering is the recommended approach for reducing and/or discontinuing the use of psychiatric medicines. This involves gradually reducing the dose over time to minimise the potential for withdrawal symptoms. However, many uncertainties exist regarding the process of reducing and stopping psychiatric medicines. This study will use a James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership to determine the Top 10 unanswered questions and uncertainties about reducing and stopping psychiatric medicines. Methods : The Priority Setting Partnership will be conducted using the James Lind Alliance methodology. It will involve seven stages: (i) creating an international Steering Group of representatives from key stakeholder groups that will include people with lived experience of taking and/or stopping psychiatric medicines, family members, carers/supporters and healthcare professionals, and identifying potential partners to support key activities (e.g. dissemination); (ii) gathering uncertainties about reducing and stopping psychiatric medicines from key stakeholders using an online survey; (iii) data processing and summarising the survey responses; (iv) checking the summary questions against existing evidence and verifying uncertainties; (v) shortlisting the questions using a second online survey; (vi) determining the Top 10 research questions through an online prioritisation workshop; (vii) disseminating results. Conclusions : This study will use a Priority Setting Partnership to generate a Top 10 list of research questions and uncertainties about reducing and stopping psychiatric medicines. This list will help to guide future research and deliver responsive and strategic allocation of research resources, with a view to ultimately improving the future health and well-being of individuals who are taking psychiatric medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Boland
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Agnes Higgins
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Claire Beecher
- Evidence Synthesis Ireland and Cochrane Ireland, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Pat Bracken
- Independent Consultant Psychiatrist, West Cork, Ireland
| | - Wendy Burn
- Past President of, Royal College of Psychiatrists, England, UK
- Consultant Psychiatrist, Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, England, UK
| | - Anne Cody
- Health Research Board, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | - Mark Horowitz
- Research and Development Department, Goodmayes Hospital, North East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - David Kessler
- Centre for Academic Mental Health, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, England, UK
| | - Asa Konradsson Geuken
- Section of Neuropharmacology and Addiction Research, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Sweden, Sweden
- European Federation of Associations of Families of People with Mental Illness, Belgium, Belgium
| | - Nicole Lamberson
- Benzodiazepine Information Coalition, Utah, USA
- International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal, United Kingdom, UK
- Inner Compass Initiative's The Withdrawal Project, United States, USA
| | - Luke Montagu
- Council for Evidence-based Psychiatry, United Kingdom, UK
| | - Brian Osborne
- Irish College of General Practitioners, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Cathal Cadogan
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Bergström T, Seikkula J, Köngäs-Saviaro P, Taskila JJ, Aaltonen J. Need adapted use of medication in the open dialogue approach for psychosis: a descriptive longitudinal cohort study. PSYCHOSIS 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/17522439.2022.2134444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tomi Bergström
- Department of Psychology, University of Jyväskylä, Jyvaskyla, Finland
| | - Jaakko Seikkula
- Department of Psychology, University of Jyväskylä, Jyvaskyla, Finland
- Faculty of Health and Sport, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway
| | | | - Jyri J. Taskila
- Department of Psychiatry, Länsi-Pohja healthcare district, Kemi, Finland
| | - Jukka Aaltonen
- Department of Psychology, University of Jyväskylä, Jyvaskyla, Finland
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Schneider-Thoma J, Siafis S, Leucht S. Maintenance antipsychotic trials and the effect of withdrawal - Authors' reply. Lancet 2022; 400:995-996. [PMID: 36154689 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(22)01442-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Schneider-Thoma
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich 81675, Germany
| | - Spyridon Siafis
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich 81675, Germany
| | - Stefan Leucht
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich 81675, Germany.
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Munkholm K, Horowitz MA, Moncrieff J. Maintenance antipsychotic trials and the effect of withdrawal. Lancet 2022; 400:995. [PMID: 36154688 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(22)01467-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Munkholm
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Odense and Cochrane Denmark, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense 5000, Denmark; Open Patient data Exploratory Network, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Mark Abie Horowitz
- Research and Development Department, Goodmayes Hospital, North East London NHS Foundation Trust, Ilford, UK; Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Joanna Moncrieff
- Research and Development Department, Goodmayes Hospital, North East London NHS Foundation Trust, Ilford, UK; Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
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Boland M, Higgins A, Doherty G, Sheaf G, Framer A, Cadogan C. Mobile phone applications to support psychotropic tapering: a scoping review protocol. HRB Open Res 2022; 5:18. [PMID: 36249953 PMCID: PMC9532954 DOI: 10.12688/hrbopenres.13501.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In the context of a recovery-oriented approach to mental healthcare, the role of psychotropic medication over extended or indefinite periods is increasingly being called into question. To minimise the risks of withdrawal symptoms and relapse, it is crucial that service users who want to discontinue psychotropic medication are supported throughout the tapering process. However, in the absence of effective interventions and supports, service users are increasingly relying on online resources for guidance and support. To date, the evidence base for mobile phone applications (‘apps’) and app-based interventions supporting discontinuation of psychotropic use has not been examined. This scoping review aims to examine the content, underpinning evidence base and impact of available mobile phone apps and app-based interventions to support psychotropic tapering. Methods: A scoping review will be conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute guidance and results will be reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guideline. Several electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, ACM and IEEE Xplore) will be searched from 2008 onwards. Searches of the major app stores will also be conducted, specifically Apple's App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android). Following screening, key information will be extracted from the included studies and apps. Identified apps will be coded using the Behaviour Change Technique (BCT) Taxonomy. The findings will be described using narrative synthesis. Conclusions: This scoping review will provide a broad overview of available apps to support psychotropic tapering, including a summary of their content using the BCT Taxonomy. The review findings will guide future research relating to the development, implementation and evaluation of app-based interventions to support the tapering of psychotropic medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Boland
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Agnes Higgins
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gavin Doherty
- School of Computer Science and Statistics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Greg Sheaf
- The Library of Trinity College, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Adele Framer
- SurvivingAntidepressants.org, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Cathal Cadogan
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Ostuzzi G, Vita G, Bertolini F, Tedeschi F, De Luca B, Gastaldon C, Nosé M, Papola D, Purgato M, Del Giovane C, Correll CU, Barbui C. Continuing, reducing, switching, or stopping antipsychotics in individuals with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders who are clinically stable: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Lancet Psychiatry 2022; 9:614-624. [PMID: 35753323 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(22)00158-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although antipsychotic maintenance treatment is widely recommended to prevent relapse in chronic psychoses, evidence-based guidelines do not provide clear indications on different maintenance treatment strategies, including continuing the antipsychotic at standard doses, reducing the dose, switching to another antipsychotic, or even stopping the antipsychotic. We aimed to compare the effectiveness of these maintenance treatment strategies, hypothesising the superiority of all strategies over stopping, and of continuing at standard doses over both switching and reducing the dose. METHODS We did a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated antipsychotics for relapse prevention in adults with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders who were clinically stable, and which compared four treatment strategies: continuing the current antipsychotic at standard doses recommended for acute treatment; reducing the current antipsychotic dose; switching to a different antipsychotic; and stopping the antipsychotic and replacing it with placebo. We excluded RCTs with fewer than 25 individuals, a prerandomisation washout period greater than 4 weeks, a follow-up shorter than 6 weeks, and those recruiting treatment-resistant individuals. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, CENTRAL, and online trial registers for published and unpublished RCTs from inception to Sept 1, 2021, combining terms describing all available antipsychotics, and terms describing continuation, maintenance, or long-term treatment for schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. Relative risks (RRs) and standardised mean differences were pooled using random-effects pairwise and network meta-analyses. We assessed risk of bias of each RCT with the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias 2 tool, and confidence of pooled estimates with CINeMA. The primary outcome was relapse prevention. The study protocol was registered in advance in the Open Science Forum registry. FINDINGS Of 3936 records identified, 119 records, reporting on 101 RCTs, were eligible, 98 of which (including 13 988 individuals) provided data that could be meta-analysed for at least one outcome. The mean proportion of female participants per study was 38% (range 0-100; median 39%, IQR 29-50), whereas for male participants it was 62% (range 0-100; median 61%, IQR 50-71), and the overall mean age was 38·8 years (range 23·2-63·9; median 39·3, IQR 35·0-43·9). Of the 98 RCTs meta-analysed, 89·8% were done in high-income and upper-middle-income countries. The ethnic group White or so-called Caucasian was the most represented (mean 56% participants per study), although this information was relatively scarce. All continuation strategies were significantly more effective in preventing relapse than stopping antipsychotic treatment, with a large risk reduction for continuing at standard doses (RR 0·37, 95% CI 0·32-0·43; number-needed-to-treat [NNT] 3·17, 95% CI 2·94-3·51) and antipsychotic switching (RR 0·44, 0·37-0·53; NNT 3·57, 3·17-4·25), and moderate risk reduction for dose reduction (RR 0·68, 0·51-0·90; NNT 6·25, 4·08-20·00). Continuing and switching antipsychotics did not differ significantly (RR 0·84, 0·69-1·02; with lower values favouring continuing), whereas reducing antipsychotic dose was outperformed by both continuing (RR 0·55, 0·42-0·71; NNT 4·44, 3·45-6·90) and switching (RR 0·65, 0·47-0·89; NNT 5·17, 3·77-18·18). Results were supported by moderate confidence of evidence and confirmed by secondary analyses and by several sensitivity and subgroup analyses, including removing studies with abrupt antipsychotic discontinuation or fast tapering (≤4 weeks). No tolerability differences emerged between treatment strategies. According to the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias tool, version 2, 16·8% of included RCTs had an overall high risk of bias for the primary outcome. We found moderate heterogeneity (τ2=0·13; I2=61%) and no overall incoherence for the primary analysis. Results were supported by moderate confidence of evidence and confirmed by secondary analyses. INTERPRETATION Contrary to our original hypothesis, we found that continuing antipsychotic treatment at standard doses or switching to a different antipsychotic are similarly effective treatment strategies, whereas reducing antipsychotic doses below standard doses is associated with higher risk of relapse than the other two maintenance treatment strategies and should therefore be limited to selected cases. Despite limitations, including moderate heterogeneity and moderate certainty of evidence, these results are of pragmatic relevance for clinicians, and should support the update of evidence-based guidelines. FUNDING None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Ostuzzi
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Vita
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Bertolini
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Tedeschi
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Beatrice De Luca
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Gastaldon
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michela Nosé
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Davide Papola
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marianna Purgato
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Cinzia Del Giovane
- Statistics and Methodology Institute of Primary Health Care, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christoph U Correll
- Department of Psychiatry, The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Glen Oaks, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra and Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Corrado Barbui
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Antipsychotic maintenance treatment versus dose reduction: how the story continues. Lancet Psychiatry 2022; 9:602-603. [PMID: 35753324 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(22)00230-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Feasibility and Benefit of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Psychosis via Teleconsultation in Indonesia: A Case Study of a 40-Year-Old Schizoaffective Disorder Patient. BEHAVIOUR CHANGE 2022. [DOI: 10.1017/bec.2022.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Whilst Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Psychosis (CBTp) has been found to reduce psychotic symptoms, most evidence supporting its implementation originates from studies in Western and high-income countries. Furthermore, questions remain regarding the efficacy of CBTp conducted via teleconsultation. Herein we report an ongoing case in Indonesia involving an individual with schizoaffective disorder, who received 60 sessions of CBTp over seven months. Sessions were delivered via a combination of voice and video calls. The patient, a 40-year-old male, was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder at the age of 26. He exhibited symptoms of paranoid and religious delusions, hallucinations (auditory, visual, and somatic) and disorganised speech during our intake interview. Negative symptoms were not apparent. In the 14 years prior to our initial consultation, the patient was prescribed antipsychotics and demonstrated good adherence. He had no history of psychotherapy independent of our clinic. Treatment involved CBTp techniques, including psychoeducation, a symptom diary, relaxation, and behavioural experiments. Study outcome was assessed with Psychotic Symptom Rating Scales. Both hallucination and delusion subscale scores improved 53% from 53 at intake to 25 during an assessment administered 6 months later. Results from this study demonstrate that the CBTp is both feasible, and beneficial, when conducted via teleconsultation in Indonesia.
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Horowitz MA, Munkholm K, Moncrieff J. Unbalanced appraisal of psychosocial versus antipsychotic literature. Lancet Psychiatry 2022; 9:540-541. [PMID: 35717959 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(22)00153-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Abie Horowitz
- Research and Development Department, Goodmayes Hospital, North East London NHS Foundation Trust, Ilford, UK; Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Klaus Munkholm
- Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Odense and Cochrane Denmark, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Open Patient data Exploratory Network, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Joanna Moncrieff
- Research and Development Department, Goodmayes Hospital, North East London NHS Foundation Trust, Ilford, UK; Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
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48
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Read J. How important are informed consent, informed choice, and patient-doctor relationships, when prescribing antipsychotic medication? J Ment Health 2022:1-9. [PMID: 35536145 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2022.2069708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antipsychotic medications (APs) are used for people with psychosis diagnoses and, increasingly for other problems and groups. AIMS This study examines how APs are prescribed, from the perspective of recipients. METHODS 757 people, from 30 countries, responded to questions about their experiences with APs, in an online survey. RESULTS Most (70%) were told nothing about adverse effects. Fewer than 2% recalled being told about the risks of diabetes, suicidality, sexual dysfunction, or reduced life span. None recalled being told about reduced brain volume or withdrawal effects. Only 28% recalled being offered other treatments; with only 14% offered talking therapies. 46% were not told how long to take the APs; and, of those who were told something, 48% were told to take them forever. Most respondents (76%) were not told how APs work. Only 19% were satisfied with the prescribing process, and only 25% reported a good, or very good, relationship with the prescriber. Information, satisfaction with the process, and the prescriber relationship were all positively related to three self-reported outcomes: reduction of problems the drugs were prescribed for, general helpfulness, and quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Steps need to be taken to ensure people prescribed antipsychotics are fully informed, especially about adverse effects and alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Read
- School of Psychology, University of East London, London, UK
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Joo SW, Kim H, Jo YT, Ahn S, Choi YJ, Choi W, Park S, Lee J. Risk of treatment discontinuation and psychiatric hospitalization associated with early dose reduction of antipsychotic treatment in first-episode schizophrenia: A nationwide, health insurance data-based study. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2022; 76:195-200. [PMID: 35233892 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.13341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
AIM We investigated the impact of early dose reduction of antipsychotic treatment on the risk of treatment discontinuation and psychiatric hospitalization in patients with first-episode schizophrenia (FES). METHODS The Health Insurance Review Agency database in South Korea was used to include 16 153 patients with FES. At 6 months from their diagnosis, the patients were categorized by the magnitude of dose reduction (no reduction, 0%-50%, and >50%). With a reference of no reduction, the risk of treatment discontinuation and psychiatric hospitalization associated with dose reduction in the 1-year follow-up period after the first 6 months was examined with a Cox proportional hazard ratio model stratified by the mean daily olanzapine-equivalent dose in the first 3 months (<10, 10 to 20, >20 mg/day). RESULTS A >50% dose reduction was associated with an increased risk of treatment discontinuation in all subgroups (<10 mg/day: hazard ratio [HR] =1.44, 95% confidence interval [CI] =1.24-1.67 [P <0.01]; 10-20 mg/day: HR =1.60, 95% CI =1.37-1.86 [P <0.01]; and >20 mg/day: HR =1.62, 95% CI =1.37-1.91 [P <0.01]). In the subgroup taking <10 mg/day, an association of 0%-50% dose reduction with an increased risk of treatment discontinuation was observed (HR =1.20, 95% CI =1.09-1.31; P <0.01). A > 50% dose reduction was associated with increased risk of psychiatric hospitalization only in the subgroup taking <10 mg/day (HR =1.48, 95% CI =1.21-1.80; P <0.01). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that an above certain dose of antipsychotic drugs is required to prevent psychiatric hospitalization, and extensive dose reduction of antipsychotic drugs could result in a higher risk of treatment discontinuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Woo Joo
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Harin Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Tak Jo
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soojin Ahn
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Jae Choi
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Woohyeok Choi
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Soyeon Park
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical Foundation Yongin Mental Hospital, Yongin, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungsun Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Horowitz MA, Taylor D. Distinguishing relapse from antidepressant withdrawal: clinical practice and antidepressant discontinuation studies. BJPSYCH ADVANCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1192/bja.2021.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY
We now recognise that withdrawal symptoms from antidepressants are common, and can be severe and long-lasting in some people. Many withdrawal symptoms overlap with symptoms of anxiety or depression, making it difficult to distinguish withdrawal from relapse. We describe how their onset soon after dose reduction, the association of psychological with physical symptoms, their prompt response to reinstatement, and their typical ‘wave’ pattern of onset, peak and resolution can help distinguish withdrawal symptoms from relapse. We also examine evidence that suggests that antidepressant withdrawal symptoms are misdiagnosed as relapse in discontinuation studies aimed at demonstrating the ability of antidepressants to prevent future relapse (relapse prevention properties). In these discontinuation studies people have their antidepressants stopped abruptly, or rapidly, making withdrawal symptoms very likely, and little effort is made to measure withdrawal symptoms or distinguish them from relapse. We conclude that there is currently no robust evidence for the relapse prevention properties of antidepressants, and current guidance might need to be re-evaluated.
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