Risk factors for ileus in patients with schizophrenia

Constipation-associated factors in outpatients with schizophrenia: A multicenter questionnaire survey

Constipation is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder that affects people globally, decreasing their quality of life and life expectancy. Individuals with schizophrenia often suffer from constipation, which could be a result of the illness itself or the side effects of psychotropic medications. However, little research has been conducted on factors contributing to constipation in individuals with schizophrenia. To address this issue, we conducted a survey using self-administered questionnaires and medical records to identify factors associated with constipation in psychiatric outpatients. This study included 399 patients with schizophrenia, resulting in a high prevalence of constipation (43.4%). The analysis suggested that female gender, the doses of antiparkinsonian medications, and benzodiazepine sleeping pills may be associated with constipation.

Overcoming clozapine's adverse events: a narrative review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses

INTRODUCTION

Clozapine is the gold standard treatment for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, however adverse events remain a clinical challenge.

AREAS COVERED

This review presents a narrative synthesis of systematic reviews and meta-analyses that have reported the onset, incidence, prevalence, and management of clozapine's adverse events. We conducted a systematic literature search using PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, OvidMEDLINE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from inception to April 2024.

EXPERT OPINION

Effective management of clozapine's adverse events necessitates multi-faceted, individualized, and shared-decision strategies. Despite a lack of high-quality systematic evidence, expert inter-disciplinary solutions are provided to help address a critical need for clinical guidance. This 35-year update offers an evidence-based framework to assist clinicians, patients, and caregivers navigate the adverse events associated with clozapine therapy.

Revealing the reporting disparity: VigiBase highlights underreporting of clozapine in other Western European countries compared to the UK

BACKGROUND

Pharmacovigilance studies indicate clozapine history is marked by adverse drug reactions (ADRs).

OBJECTIVE

In a 2021 article, the United Kingdom (UK) had >90 % of European clozapine-related fatal outcomes in VigiBase, the World Health Organization's pharmacovigilance database. Two possibly opposing hypotheses could explain this disparity: 1) fewer reported fatal outcomes in other Western European countries mainly reflect underreporting to VigiBase, and 2) the higher number of UK reports reflects higher real relative mortality.

METHODS

VigiBase reports from clozapine's introduction to December 31, 2022, were studied for ADRs and the top 10 causes of fatal outcomes. The UK was compared with 11 other top reporting Western countries (Germany, Denmark, France, Finland, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland). Nine countries (except Ireland and Switzerland) were compared after controlling for population and clozapine prescriptions.

RESULTS

The UK accounted for 29 % of worldwide clozapine-related fatal outcomes, Germany 2 % and <1 % in each of the other countries. The nonspecific label "death" was the top cause in the world (46 %) and in the UK (33 %). "Pneumonia" was second in the world (8 %), the UK (12 %), Ireland (8 %) and Finland (14 %). Assuming that our corrections for population and clozapine use are correct, other countries underreported only 1-10 % of the UK clozapine fatal outcome number.

CONCLUSIONS

Different Western European countries consistently underreport to VigiBase compared to the UK, but have different reporting/publishing styles for clozapine-related ADRs/fatal outcomes. Three Scandinavian registries suggest lives are saved as clozapine use increases, but this cannot be studied in pharmacovigilance databases.

Inter-relationships of risk factors and pathways associated with all-cause mortality in patients with chronic schizophrenia

Introduction

Of all psychiatric disorders, schizophrenia is associated with the highest risk of all-cause mortality. This study aimed to investigate independent risk factors for all-cause mortality in patients with chronic schizophrenia. In addition, the possible causal inter-relationships among these independent risk factors and all-cause mortality were also explored.

Methods

We conducted an analysis of 1,126 patients with chronic schizophrenia from our psychiatric department from April 2003 to August 2022, and retrospectively reviewed their medical records. The study endpoint was all-cause mortality. Baseline clinical characteristics including sociodemographic data, biochemical data, lifestyle factors, comorbidities and antipsychotic treatment were examined with Cox proportional hazards analysis.

Results

The all-cause mortality rate was 3.9% (44 patients). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that several factors were independently associated with all-cause mortality, including diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, heart failure, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, ileus, underweight, fasting glucose, triglycerides, albumin, and hemoglobin. Structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis revealed that several factors had statistically significant direct effects on all-cause mortality. Heart failure, hypertension, underweight, age at onset, and ileus showed positive direct effects, while albumin and hemoglobin demonstrated negative direct effects. In addition, several factors had indirect effects on all-cause mortality. GERD indirectly affected all-cause mortality through ileus, and peptic ulcer disease had indirect effects through albumin and ileus. Ileus, underweight, DM, and hypertension also exhibited indirect effects through various pathways involving albumin, hemoglobin, and heart failure. Overall, the final model, which included these factors, explained 13% of the variability in all-cause mortality.

Discussion

These results collectively suggest that the presence of DM, hypertension, heart failure, GERD, peptic ulcer disease, ileus, and underweight, along with lower levels of albumin or hemoglobin, were independently associated with all-cause mortality. The SEM analysis further revealed potential causal pathways and inter-relationships among these risk factors contributing to all-cause mortality in patients with chronic schizophrenia.

The prevalence of constipation in adult psychiatric out-patients on clozapine treatment at a regional public hospital in Hong Kong

OBJECTIVE

To determine the occurrence of constipation in local patients on clozapine treatment, and to compare the demographical and clinical characteristics of patients on clozapine treatment with or without constipation.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional, observational study. All adult psychiatric out-patients on clozapine treatment attending follow-up at a regional hospital were recruited for clinical interview and medical record review. The Enhanced Asian Rome III Questionnaire (EAR3Q) was used to define patients with constipation. The Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS) was used to assess stool form. The Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale-Anchored (BPRS-A) was used to measure psychiatric symptoms. The Brief Medication Adherence Scale (BMAS) was used to assess treatment adherence. Logistic regression was conducted to identify independent associating factors of constipation in patients on clozapine treatment.

RESULTS

The prevalence of constipation in patients on clozapine treatment was 26.3%, (95% CI [21.5%, 31.6%]). Independent associating factors included disorder of psychological development (aOR = 6.98, 95% CI [1.24, 39.18]), anxiety (very mild: aOR = 9.23, 95% CI [2.59, 32.87]; mild: aOR = 2.66, 95% CI [1.26, 5.62]), prescription with combination of laxatives (aOR = 0.40, 95% CI [0.17, 0.95]), and concomitant use of amisulpride (aOR = 2.52, 95% CI [1.09, 5.82]), quetiapine (aOR = 5.92, 95% CI [1.11, 31.56]) and metamucil (aOR = 9.30, 95% CI [1.53, 56.58]).

CONCLUSION

This study examined the prevalence of clozapine-associated constipation in Hong Kong using a validated questionnaire. The identification of independent factors associated with constipation could facilitate better risk stratification and risk modification in clinical practice.

Constipation in hospitalized psychiatric patients: An underestimated common phenomenon. Retrospective epidemiological study in an adult psychiatric hospital setting

OBJECTIVE

Constipation is more common in patients with mental disorders than in the general population. However, its frequency in hospitalized patients, its association with drugs and how teams become aware of it and take care of it are not fully identified.

METHOD

The retrospective study included 141 male and 127 female new patients admitted for routine treatment at France's largest psychiatric hospital between November 15 and December 11, 2017. A physician reviewed electronic medical records to diagnose constipation and record variables of interest: socio-demographic factors, diagnosis, drugs prescribed and taken. We calculated an anticholinergic impregnation score (AIS) for each patient by using a validated French scale. Patients were then classified into two groups by state of constipation defined by the physician. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to study the frequency of constipation, factors associated with it and its management.

RESULTS

The prevalence of constipation was 38% (95% CI 32-44). Associated factors were taking antipsychotics and the burden of anticholinergic treatment. On multiple regression analysis, the only remaining factor was anticholinergic treatment: AIS≥5 was associated with constipation (odds ratio 1.80 [95% CI 1.07-3.14], P=0.027). Only 44.0% of patients were prescribed a preventive laxative, systematically in half of the cases. Above all, only 11.2% were administered this laxative (i.e., 25% of that prescribed). Digestive transit was poorly recorded in the table of constants (34.7%). We found one case of sub-occlusion as a severe case.

CONCLUSION

Constipation is common in psychiatric inpatients. The more the patient is prescribed drugs with a pronounced anticholinergic effect, the greater the risk. Alongside the preventive measures common to all psychiatric patients which must be promoted (concerning diet, physical activity, etc.), polymedication with this type of anticholinergic must be better monitored to prevent complications: prescription and administration of a preventive laxative, monitoring transit in the table of constants. Thus, a better knowledge of the subject and specific training are essential.

Impact of COVID-19 quarantines on clozapine-induced constipation: Experience of utilizing a clozapine-induced constipation protocol at a state forensic psychiatric facility

Objective

Since 2017, Fulton State Hospital (FSH) has implemented a clozapine-induced constipation protocol. In March 2020, FSH initiated unit quarantines to minimize the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of these quarantines on medical referrals for constipation, the Bristol Stool Chart ratings, utilization of as-needed (PRN) laxatives, and adherence rates with scheduled constipation medication regimens.

Methods

Patients on the clozapine-induced constipation protocol from May 1, 2019 to December 31, 2020, were included, with 10-month pre- and mid-quarantine implementation. Data collected included patient demographics, primary psychiatric diagnosis, and outcome variables. Descriptive statistics and paired t-tests were performed.

Results

A total of 31 patients were included. Most were male (93.5%), with a median age of 40 years. The most common primary diagnosis was schizophrenia. Compared with the pre-quarantine implementation period, there were fewer medical referral contacts per person, less use of PRN laxatives, and slightly lower adherence rates to scheduled constipation medication regimens during the mid-quarantine implementation period.

Conclusion

Compared with the pre-quarantine implementation period, there were fewer medical referrals per person during the mid-quarantine implementation period.

Lower Risks of Gastrointestinal Perforation and Intestinal Obstruction in Patients with Atypical Antipsychotics in Comparison with Typical Antipsychotics Based on Real-World Data from the MID-NET® in Japan

Intestinal perforation and obstruction are known to be one of the adverse events caused by antipsychotics; however, warning information on package inserts varies among antipsychotics. To investigate the risks of gastrointestinal perforation and intestinal obstruction in patients prescribed atypical antipsychotics compared with those in patients prescribed typical antipsychotics, a nested case-control study was conducted utilizing real-world data from the MID-NET® medical information database in Japan. The study period spanned from January 1, 2009, to December 31, 2018. We found that the risks of gastrointestinal perforation and intestinal obstruction in patients prescribed atypical antipsychotics were significantly lower than those in patients prescribed typical antipsychotics (adjusted odds ratio, 0.48; 95% confidence interval, 0.29-0.80). This finding was supported with prolonged periods for the exposure definition in the sensitivity analyses. In addition, no major differences in the risks of atypical antipsychotics, such as risperidone, quetiapine, olanzapine, and aripiprazole, were identified in this study. The safety profile regarding the lower risks of gastrointestinal perforation and intestinal obstruction in patients prescribed atypical antipsychotics should be considered when choosing antipsychotics in clinical practice in terms of the proper use of such drugs.

The impact of psychiatric comorbidities on emergency general surgical patients' outcomes

BACKGROUND

Psychiatric disorders are increasingly prevalent. Studies have demonstrated that the presence of comorbid psychiatric conditions (CPC) is associated with a number of worsening outcomes in hospitalised patients in general. The relationship between a wide range of psychiatric comorbidities and acute surgical presentations has not been studied to date.

STUDY DESIGN

The Hospital In-Patient Enquiry (HIPE) system and prospectively maintained eHandover were used to identify all surgical emergency admissions to Mayo University Hospital, Ireland. Patient demographics, comorbidities, primary diagnoses, length of stay (LoS), and procedures undergone were recorded over a 12-months period. Subgroup analyses examining LoS variation in surgical presentation types were performed.

RESULTS

1028 admissions occurred over this one year period, amongst 995 patients, the presence of psychiatric comorbidities increased the mean LoS by 1.9 days (p = 0.002). Comorbid depression, dementia, and intellectual disability conferred a significant increase in LoS by 2.4 days, 2.8 days and 6.7 days respectively. Subgroup analysis revealed greater LoS in patients with CPC diagnosed with non-specific abdominal pain (1.4 days, p = 0.019), skin and soft tissue infections (2.5 days, p = 0.040), bowel obstruction (4.3 days, p = 0.047), and medical disorders (18.6 days, p = 0.010). No significant difference was observed in mortality and readmission rates.

CONCLUSION

Psychiatric comorbidities significantly impact length of hospital stay and discharge planning in surgical inpatients. Greater awareness of this can facilitate better care delivery for this population to reduce the LoS and subsequent economic burden on the healthcare system.

Clozapine Optimization: A Delphi Consensus Guideline From the Treatment Response and Resistance in Psychosis Working Group

BACKGROUND AND HYPOTHESIS

There is limited evidence to guide the approaches to clozapine treatment. Accordingly, an international initiative was undertaken with the aim of developing consensus recommendations for the optimization of clozapine monotherapy.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted an online Delphi survey among members of the Treatment Response and Resistance in Psychosis (TRRIP) working group comprising experts from twenty-nine countries. The threshold criterion for a consensus recommendation was ≥ 75% agreement ("agree" and "strongly agree" responses) on a question. Agreement of ≥ 50% but < 75% in a second or third Delphi round was deemed to provide guidance.

STUDY RESULTS

Forty-nine (first round), 32 (second round), and 48 (third round) of the 91 current TRRIP members participated. Expert recommendations at ≥ 75% comprised second-line treatment with clozapine in cases of persistent positive symptoms with co-occurring extrapyramidal symptoms, tardive dyskinesia, or suicidality/aggression. There was considerable disagreement on myocarditis screening parameters. The management of somatic and neuropsychiatric adverse drug reactions warrants further research for more evidence-based recommendations. Rechallenge with clozapine was recommended for eosinophilia, sinus tachycardia and fever and guidance (agreement ≥ 50%) was reached for pneumonia and thrombocytopenia.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the limited evidence available, this consensus-based series of recommendations and guidance statements supports clinical decision-making to optimize clozapine monotherapy and provides guidance for future research in treatment-resistant schizophrenia.

Severity in schizophrenia patients receiving atypical antipsychotic medications

Atypical antipsychotic drugs are nowadays the mainstay of treatment of schizophrenia due to their lesser extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) as adverse effects. However, these drugs have different profiles of adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Here, the objective of this study was to analyze the probability, occurrences, and more significant involvement of various risk factors. A prospective observational study was carried out on a patient with schizophrenia who has prescribed atypical antipsychotic drugs for their treatment. The probability of the ADR was analyzed by using the Naranjo causality assessment scale. While Glasgow antipsychotic Side effect Scale (GASS) was used to estimate the severity of side effects. Statistical software for social science (SPSS) ver 25; was used for different descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis. A total of 140 patients were included in the study of which the majority (58.57 %) was male. However, atypical antipsychotic drugs were primarily prescribed to the patient as mono therapy (81.43 %). Interestingly, COVID-19 infections were reported as positive in 39.29 % of total patients. Probability assessment of ADRs revealed that most (55 %) were "Probable". Subsequently, the GASS score was evaluated for severity, the majority (55.71 %) were reported as "Mild". The statistically significant association between gender and severity of side effects & duration of illness and severity of side effects were found (P>0.5).The Present study aids in knowing the risk factors and improving the management practices of ADR, thereby improving the guidelines in terms of safe clinical approaches for psychiatric patients.

Gastrointestinal and liver disease in patients with schizophrenia: A narrative review

Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness which can have a devastating impact on an individual’s quality of life. Comorbidities are high amongst patients and life expectancy is approximately 15 years less than the general population. Despite the well-known increased mortality, little is known about the impact of gastrointestinal and liver disease on patients with schizophrenia. We aimed to review the literature and to make recommendations regarding future care. Literature searches were performed on PubMed to identify studies related to gastrointestinal and liver disease in patients with schizophrenia. High rates of chronic liver disease were reported, with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease being of particular concern; antipsychotics and metabolic syndrome were contributing factors. Rates of acute liver failure were low but have been associated with antipsychotic use and paracetamol overdose. Coeliac disease has historically been linked to schizophrenia; however, recent research suggests that a causal link is yet to be proven. Evidence is emerging regarding the relationships between schizophrenia and peptic ulcer disease, inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome; clinical vigilance regarding these conditions should be high. Patients with schizophrenia poorly engage with bowel cancer screening programmes, leading to late diagnosis and increased mortality. Clozapine induced constipation is a significant issue for many patients and requires close monitoring. There is a significant burden of gastrointestinal and liver disease amongst patients with schizophrenia. Better levels of support from all members of the medical team are essential to ensure that appropriate, timely care is provided.

The relation between second-generation antipsychotics and laxative use in elderly patients with schizophrenia

BACKGROUND

We aimed to investigate factors associated with concomitant laxative use among elderly patients with schizophrenia, discharged on second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs), from two large public psychiatric hospitals in Taiwan.

METHODS

Elderly patients with schizophrenia who were discharged between 2006 and 2019 and received SGA monotherapy at discharge were included in the analysis. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with regular laxative use at discharge. The Cochrane-Armitage trend test was used to evaluate whether significant time trends existed for rates of laxative use at discharge.

RESULTS

A total of 2591 elderly patients with schizophrenia were discharged during the study period, and 1727 of 2591 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included for analysis. Of these 1727 patients, 732 (42.4%) also received concomitant laxatives. Female gender, mood stabiliser use and concomitant diabetes mellitus were found to be associated with increased laxative use. Among SGAs, clozapine was associated with the highest rate of laxative use, followed by zotepine, quetiapine, olanzapine and risperidone. Additionally, risperidone, amisulpride, aripiprazole, paliperidone and sulpiride were associated with comparable rates of laxative use. Laxative use rates grew over time from 30.8% in 2006 to 46.6% in 2019 (z = 4.83, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Laxative use is common in elderly schizophrenia patients treated with SGAs. In cases of clinically significant constipation, switching to an SGA with a lower risk for constipation, or discontinuing the use of mood stabilisers should be considered, if clinically feasible.

Recent findings on subjective well-being and physical, psychiatric, and social comorbidities in individuals with schizophrenia: A literature review

AIM

Care for people with schizophrenia is shifting the locus from long-stay mental hospitals to nonspecialized community-based settings. Knowledge on the care is not a sole property of psychiatric specialists. Community healthcare workers who do not specialize in psychiatry are recommended to learn more about schizophrenia. This review aimed to summarize recent findings on subjective well-being and physical, psychiatric, and social comorbidities in individuals with schizophrenia.

METHODS

A literature review was conducted. We retrieved findings from existing systematic reviews and meta-analyses as our preferred method. When data were not available, we referred to other types of studies.

RESULTS

As per our review, individuals with schizophrenia demonstrated poor subjective well-being, happiness, and life satisfaction despite individual differences. Pharmacotherapy caused weight gain and constipation, whereas race and hospitalization might affect weight reduction. Individuals with schizophrenia demonstrated poor oral health, a high prevalence of noncommunicable diseases, and unique eating behaviors. Depression, sleep disorders, smoking, and alcohol and drug consumption were frequently found in the individuals. Research findings regarding problematic internet and smartphone use and stress perception were limited. Low health literacy and neglect of preventable behaviors were frequently seen in individuals with schizophrenia. They tended to be less educated, poor, unemployed, unmarried/unattached, and had poor social cognition, resulting in little social support and a small social network.

CONCLUSION

Retrieving recent data, we confirmed that individuals with schizophrenia had poor subjective well-being and suffer from various physical, psychiatric, and social comorbidities.

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase tyrosine kinase inhibitors associated gastrointestinal obstruction, perforation, and ulceration: an analysis of the FDA adverse event reporting system database (FAERS)

BACKGROUND : There have been cases reporting anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and associated serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse drug reactions (gastrointestinal obstruction, perforation, and ulceration). These adverse drug reactions are not in the drug package inserts, and the drug relationships are not proven in the literature.  AIM: We aimed to examine the potential association between GI obstruction, perforation, and ulceration, and ALK-TKIs by data mining of the US FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). METHOD  : We conducted a disproportionality analysis of GI obstruction, perforation, and ulceration by estimating the reporting odds ratios (ROR) and the information component (IC) with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS : A total of 279 cases of ALK-TKI-associated GI obstruction, perforation, and ulceration from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2020, were identified. GI obstruction, perforation, and ulceration cause 16% of cases of death. A significantly increased reporting rate for GI obstruction [ROR 1.77 (1.45-2.15); IC 0.82 (0.53-2.03)] and perforation [ROR 1.61 (1.28-2.02); IC 0.68 (0.35-1.92)] was observed for ALK-TKIs as a drug class. The signal of GI ulceration was detected only in crizotinib [ROR 1.23 (1.01-1.50); IC 0.29 (0.01-1.51)]. A statistically significant ROR and IC emerged for the site of the esophagus.  CONCLUSION : Overall, the pharmacovigilance study of the FAERS indicates slightly increased reporting of GI obstruction and perforation, which may cause severe or even fatal outcomes among ALK-TKIs users.

Ileus in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: A retrospective, pharmacovigilance study using Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System database

OBJECTIVE

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been widely used in cancer treatment; however, some case reports suggested that ICIs treatment might result in ileus. This study aims to comprehensively reveal the relationship between ileus and ICIs treatment in real-world cases from Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).

METHODS

Reports from January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2020 were extracted from the FAERS. ICIs-related adverse events in patients were defined as related to use of anti-programmed cell death protein 1 antibodies (PD-1, nivolumab and pembrolizumab), anti-programmed cell death-ligand 1 inhibitors (PD-L1, atezolizumab, durvalumab, avelumab, and cemiplimab), and anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4, ipilimumab and tremelimumab). ICIs-related ileus cases were identified to characterize their clinical features. Reporting odds ratios (ROR) and information component (IC) were used to assess the relationship between ICIs and ileus.

RESULTS

Among the 105 001 cases related to ICIs, 245 were reported with ICI-related ileus. The affected patients were mainly elderly (median age, 64.5 years) and male (58%, n = 143). The median onset for all cases was 36 (range 0-880) days, and no statistical difference was observed between monotherapy and combination therapy (PD-1 or PD-L1 plus CTLA-4) (p = 0.21). Most patients required drug withdrawal treatment (n = 113, 74%) and can achieve a recovered-resolved state (n = 72, 46%). All ICIs were significantly associated with ileus (ROR = 4.27, 95%Cl: 3.75-4.85; IC = 2.04, 95%Cl: 1.79-2.31). Ileus events were most commonly reported in PD-1 treatment (n = 164, ROR = 3.83, 95%Cl: 3.28-4.48; IC = 1.90, 95%Cl: 1.62-2.21).

CONCLUSION

This pharmacovigilance database analysis suggested that ICIs are related to ileus. However, combination therapy may not speed up the onset of ileus.

Treatment strategies for clozapine-induced nocturnal enuresis and urinary incontinence: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Clozapine is the most effective medication for treatment-refractory schizophrenia but is associated with significant adverse drug reactions, including nocturnal enuresis and urinary incontinence. This side effect can be burdensome and lead to medication nonadherence and psychotic relapse. Evidence to guide treatment of clozapine-induced nocturnal enuresis and urinary incontinence is sparse. We therefore aimed to synthesize the evidence base to guide management for clinicians, patients, and their carers.

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Trial Registry databases from inception to May 2021 for publications on management of clozapine-induced nocturnal enuresis and urinary incontinence using a PROSPERO preregistered search strategy.

RESULTS

We identified 22 case reports and case series describing 74 patients. Interventions included clozapine dose reduction, nonpharmacological treatment, and pharmacological treatments. Among pharmacological treatments, desmopressin, oxybutynin, trihexyphenidyl, tolterodine, imipramine, amitriptyline, ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, aripiprazole, and verapamil were associated with complete resolution of nocturnal enuresis and urinary incontinence. Balancing evidence for effectiveness against risk of adverse effects, we developed a management framework for clozapine-induced nocturnal enuresis and urinary incontinence.

CONCLUSIONS

Following assessment of urological, psychiatric, pharmacological, and common comorbid medical issues, first-line treatments should be nonpharmacological, including bathroom alarms, voiding before bedtime, and nocturnal fluid restriction. If these interventions do not provide adequate relief, aripiprazole should be trialed. Desmopressin may be considered for severe refractory cases, but monitoring for hyponatremia is essential.

Antipsychotic-induced gastrointestinal hypomotility and the alteration in gut microbiota in patients with schizophrenia

AIM

Gut microbiota play an important role in the pathogenesis of gut hypomotility and are critical for the production of the intestinal immune system and the maintenance of the intestinal homeostasis. Patients with psychotic disorders are at a high risk of antipsychotic-induced constipation. However, the mechanisms might be more than neurotransmission properties of antipsychotics.

METHODS

We recruited a total of 45 patients with constipation according to Rome IV criteria and objective test for colonic motility and the other 45 gender- and age-matching patients without constipation and investigated their differences in composition of gut microbiota. The demographic and serum metabolic indices were collected. The subjective constipation assessment scale (CAS) and the Bristol stool classification (BSS) were also used to evaluate the degree of constipation in both groups. The fecal samples were analysed using the 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

RESULTS

The constipation group had a significantly increased alpha diversity in Observed species, Chao 1, and ACE as compared to the non-constipation group. At the phylum levels, the relative abundances of Bacteroidetes and Fusobacteria decreased significantly, while those of Firmicutes, Verrucomicrobia, and Synergistetes increased significantly in the constipation group. At the genus level, the relative abundances of Christensenella and Desulfovibrio were higher in the constipation group. The α-diversity indices of gut microbiota were correlated positively with the levels of serum total bile acid and correlated negatively with BSS scores. The BSS scores were positively correlated with the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes but negatively correlated with the relative abundance of Firmicutes. PICRUSt analysis revealed the potential metabolic pathways of lipopolysaccharide, vitamin B6, riboflavin, pyruvate, and propionate functions.

CONCLUSIONS

The alternation of the gut microbiota in schizophrenia patients with antipsychotic-induced constipation indicates antipsychotic agents might affect gastrointestinal motility via varying microbiome-related metabolites, and the specific bacteria, such as Synergistetes which might act as an anti-inflammatory factor in the healthy human gut, related to colonic transit motility seem inconsistent to the findings from previous literature in gastroenterology. However, the causal effects are still unknown. Our study provides a new possibility to understand the mechanisms of antipsychotic-induced constipation.

Antipsychotic-Induced Constipation: A Review of the Pathogenesis, Clinical Diagnosis, and Treatment

Antipsychotic-induced gastrointestinal hypomotility and, in particular, its manifestation of constipation are common adverse effects in patients with schizophrenia in clinical practice. Serious complications of antipsychotic-induced constipation include ileus, ischaemic bowel disease, colon perforation, aspiration pneumonia, and bacterial septicaemia, which can be life threatening if left untreated, especially in patients prescribed clozapine. The aim of this paper is to review the latest research on the epidemiology, clinical examination methods, pathophysiology, and treatment options and preventive measures for antipsychotic-induced constipation. While clinicians are normally aware of the overall side effects caused by antipsychotics, constipation is often an under-recognized condition despite its relatively high incidence and its impact on daily living. The incidence of constipation differs among individual antipsychotics, but more than 50% of patients prescribed antipsychotics suffer from constipation. Limited fluid intake, poor dietary habits, and a sedentary lifestyle can also worsen constipation. The mechanisms of antipsychotic-induced constipation may be antagonism of cholinergic, histaminergic, and serotonergic receptors, with both parent drug and metabolite(s) contributing to the effects on gastrointestinal motility. Numerous methods, mainly divided into scale evaluations and objective examinations, are applied to evaluate antipsychotic-induced constipation; however, objective examinations have a greater ability to identify cases of gastrointestinal hypomotility since there is often an under-reporting of symptoms in subjective reporting and scale evaluation due to a higher pain threshold, an inability to express pain sensations, and a lack of symptom awareness in these patients. Antipsychotic drug-induced constipation should be closely monitored in patients receiving these medications, with timely intervention to avoid serious gastrointestinal consequences. There is currently no consensus on the efficacy of laxatives in these patients. Further in-depth studies should explore the underlying mechanisms and devise optimal therapeutic approaches to minimize constipation during antipsychotic treatment.

Clinical Characteristics of Patients with Schizophrenia Maintained without Antipsychotics: A Cross-sectional Survey of a Case Series

Objective

While antipsychotics are necessary for relapse prevention in the treatment of schizophrenia in general, some minority of patients may be maintained without continuous antipsychotic treatment. However, the characteristics of such patients are not well known and previous reports have not evaluated key elements such as physical comorbidities and functioning.

Methods

Among 635 patients with schizophrenia who participated in a 12-year follow-up, those who were maintained without antipsychotic treatment for at least one year after the study were investigated. The patients underwent comprehensive assessments, including Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) for psychopathology, Cumulative Illness Rating Scale for Geriatrics (CIRS-G) for physical comorbidities, and Functional Assessment for Comprehensive Treatment of Schizophrenia (FACT-Sz), Barthel Index, and EuroQoL five dimensions (EQ5D) for function.

Results

Six patients were included (mean ± standard deviation age, 66.8 ± 17.4 years; 4 inpatients). The four inpatients were old (77.8 ± 4.8 years) and chronically ill (duration of illness, 49.3 ± 12.5 years) with a high PANSS score (total score, 118.0 ± 9.8; negative syndrome subscale, 41.3 ± 6.9), low functioning (FACT-Sz, 9.8 ± 3.6; Barthel Index, 8.8 ± 9.6), and serious physical comorbidities (CIRS-G, 15.5 ± 1.1). By contrast, the two outpatients were relatively young (45.0 ± 12.0 years) and clinically in good condition (PANSS total score, 44.5 ± 0.5; Barthel Index, 100 for both; EQ5D, 0.85 ± 0.04).

Conclusion

Although the number is limited, two types of patients with schizophrenia were identified who were free from ongoing antipsychotic treatment; 1) older chronic inpatients with serious physical comorbidities, and 2) younger outpatients with milder impairments. Future explorations are needed to identify those who will be successfully withdrawn from continuous antipsychotic treatment.

Managing Recurrent Clozapine-Induced Constipation in a Patient with Resistant Schizophrenia

Clozapine is an effective antipsychotic for the treatment of resistant schizophrenia. However, clozapine can lead to serious side effects. One of the most common side effects is constipation and in rare cases ileus, which is associated with a considerable case fatality rate. Our patient exhibited repeated episodes of ileus while being treated with clozapine. We adapted the treatment of the patient in several ways to manage these severe side effects. First, we reduced clozapine dosage by opting for an augmentation strategy of clozapine through paliperidone. Then, we added linaclotide as a nonconventional laxative. We further adapted treatment after the occurrence of a volvulus prompting surgical intervention which revealed a malformation of the intestines' peritoneal attachment. A gastrostomy to facilitate the treatment of any further episode was performed and bethanechol was introduced alongside linaclotide. Follow-up revealed the efficacy of our strategy involving the use of linaclotide in managing the side effects of clozapine in this patient.

Microbial Profiles of Patients With Antipsychotic-Related Constipation Treated With Electroacupuncture

Antipsychotic-related constipation (APRC) is one of the most common side effects of taking antipsychotic medication. APRC can seriously impact patient quality of life and is potentially fatal, though the efficacy of current APRC treatments is low for most patients. In this study, we conducted a controlled, pilot randomized, sham-electroacupuncture (SEA) study to assess the efficacy of electroacupuncture (EA) in patients with APRC. We used 16S rRNA gene sequencing to assess the microbial profiles of these patients and analyze how EA treatments affected their bacteria.

Methods: We treated 133 APRC patients with randomly assigned EA treatments or SEA treatments for 4 consecutive weeks, fully evaluating the patients 8 weeks after treatment. The participants, outcome assessors, and statistics were all blind to the EA and SEA treatments. Outcomes assessed included changes in spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) and the frequency of rescue measures. We detected assessed the microbial diversity of stool specimens both before and after EA treatment using 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results: Both EA and SEA treatments reduced the need for constipation rescue measures and did not have serious side effects. EA treatments were better than SEA treatments at increasing SBMs and reducing rescue measures. The diversity of gut microbiota changed after EA treatment. LEfSe analysis indicated changes in the genus (belonging to phylum Proteobacteria) of gut microbiota in patients following EA treatment.

Conclusions: This study found that EA treatment is effective and safe for patients with APRC, and could be associated with changes in their microbial profiles. Further study, with larger sample sizes, is needed to explore the efficacy of EA intervention as a clinical treatment for APRC.

Trial Registration: ChiCTR, ChiCTR-ONC-17010842, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=18420.

Safety profile of clozapine: Analysis using national registry data in Japan

Clozapine is the only effective antipsychotic drug used for the treatment of treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Although it has been shown that the frequency of clozapine use is very low in Japan, our previous study revealed that the number of clozapine prescriptions has been increasing in recent years, and that risk factors leading to discontinuation of clozapine were also identified as age ≥40 years, poor tolerability to olanzapine, previous treatment with clozapine, and white blood cell count <6000/mm³. The main cause for discontinuation of clozapine is the occurrence of a wide range of adverse events, including neutropenia/leukopenia and fatal cardiac disorders. In this study, we analyzed the physical details and backgrounds of patients with adverse events that led to clozapine discontinuation using a national registry database of more than 8000 Japanese patients. The physical adverse events that led to discontinuation of clozapine were neutropenia/leukopenia, glucose intolerance, cardiac disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, neuroleptic malignant syndrome, pleurisy, pulmonary embolism, sedation/somnolence, and seizures. Neutropenia/leukopenia had the highest incidence (5.0%). Neutropenia/leukopenia and cardiac disorders tended to occur early in the treatment period, indicating the need for careful monitoring for these adverse events in the early stages of clozapine treatment. Gastrointestinal disorders occurred over a long period of time, suggesting the need for careful observation during the maintenance period. The data obtained in our study will lead to the optimal and safe use of clozapine treatment.

Targets for Intervention? Preoperative Predictors of Postoperative Ileus After Colorectal Surgery in an Enhanced Recovery Protocol

BACKGROUND

Postoperative ileus occurs in up to 30% of colorectal surgery patients and is associated with increased length of stay, costs, and morbidity. While Enhanced Recovery Protocols seek to accelerate postoperative recovery, data on modifiable preoperative factors associated with postoperative ileus in this setting are limited. We aimed to identify preoperative predictors of postoperative ileus following colorectal surgery in Enhanced Recovery Protocols, to determine new intervention targets.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective single-center cohort study of patients ≥ 18 years old who underwent colorectal surgery via Enhanced Recovery Protocols (7/2015-7/2017). Postoperative ileus was defined as nasogastric tube insertion postoperatively or nil-per-os by postoperative day 4. Preoperative risk factors including comorbidities and medication use were identified using multivariable stepwise logistic regression.

RESULTS

Of 530 patients, 14.9% developed postoperative ileus. On univariate analysis of perioperative and postoperative factors, postoperative ileus patients had increased psychiatric illness, antidepressant and antipsychotic use, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, ileostomy creation, postoperative opioid use, complications, surgery duration, and length of stay (p < 0.05). Multivariable logistic regression model for preoperative factors identified psychiatric illness, preoperative antipsychotic use, and American Society of Anesthesiologists classification ≥ 3 as significant predictors of postoperative ileus (p < 0.05).

DISCUSSION

Postoperative ileus remains a common complication following colorectal surgery under Enhanced Recovery Protocols. Patients with pre-existing psychiatric comorbidities and preoperative antipsychotic use may be a previously overlooked cohort at increased risk for postoperative ileus. Additional research and preoperative interventions within Enhanced Recovery Protocols to reduce postoperative ileus for this higher-risk population are needed.

Let's talk about sex: Differences in drug therapy in males and females

Professor Henry Higgins in My Fair Lady said, 'Why can't a woman be more like a man?' Perhaps unintended, such narration extends to the reality of current drug development. A clear sex-gap exists in pharmaceutical research spanning from preclinical studies, clinical trials to post-marketing surveillance with a bias towards males. Consequently, women experience adverse drug reactions from approved drug products more often than men. Distinct differences in pharmaceutical response across drug classes and the lack of understanding of disease pathophysiology also exists between the sexes, often leading to suboptimal drug therapy in women. This review explores the influence of sex as a biological variable in drug delivery, pharmacokinetic response and overall efficacy in the context of pharmaceutical research and practice in the clinic. Prospective recommendations are provided to guide researchers towards the consideration of sex differences in methodologies and analyses. The promotion of disaggregating data according to sex to strengthen scientific rigour, encouraging innovation through the personalisation of medicines and adopting machine learning algorithms is vital for optimised drug development in the sexes and population health equity.

Analysis of Drug-Induced Gastrointestinal Obstruction and Perforation Using the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report Database

Drug-induced gastrointestinal obstruction (DIGO) and gastrointestinal perforation (DIGP) may be the result of gastrointestinal hypomotility and severe constipation, which may lead to potentially fatal complications of bowel ischemia, sepsis and perforation. We evaluated the onset profile of DIGs (DIGO and DIGP) associated with prescription drugs by analyzing data in the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report (JADER) database. We selected 161 DIG-related drugs and categorized them into 19 classes based on the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) Classification System. Finally, we focused on 58 drugs and conducted subsequent analyses for the time-to-onset and outcomes. We extracted 79 preferred terms (PTs) with the strings “ileus,” “stenosis,” “obstruction,” “obstructive,” “impaction,” “perforation,” “perforated,” “hypomotility,” and “intussusception” from the Standardized Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) Queries (SMQs) of SMQ20000104: gastrointestinal perforation, ulcer, hemorrhage, obstruction non-specific findings/procedures; SMQ20000105: gastrointestinal obstruction; and SMQ20000107: gastrointestinal perforation. Among the 667, 729 reports in the JADER database submitted between April 2004 and November 2020, we identified 11,351 occurrences of DIGs. The reporting odds ratios (RORs) (95% confidence interval) of “barium sulfate containing X-ray media,” “drugs for treatment of hyperkalemia and hyperphosphatemia,” and “oral bowel cleanser” were 142.0 (127.1–158.6), 25.8 (23.1–28.8), and 29.7 (24.8–35.6), respectively. The median number of days (interquartile range) until the onset of an adverse event caused by each drug category was as follows: barium sulfate containing X-ray contrast media [2.0 (1.0–3.0)], diazepines, oxazepines, thiazepines, and oxepines [8.0 (8.0–18.5)], drugs for treatment of hyperkalemia and hyperphosphatemia [29.0 (8.0–55.0)], non-selective monoamine reuptake inhibitors [19.0 (7.0–47.5)], and oral bowel cleanser [0.0 (0.0–0.0)]. Depending on the drug, the time to onset of side effects ranged from days to several months. Our results highlighted the need to perform detailed monitoring of each drug for possible association with DIGs, which might otherwise have fatal consequences.

[Acute Colonic Pseudo-obstruction Induced by Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome]

A colonic pseudo-obstruction is a disorder that causes abdominal distension and abdominal pain similar to a mechanical obstruction, but there are no structural lesions that can obstruct the gastrointestinal tract. This condition can be acute or chronic. An acute colonic pseudo-obstruction, also called Ogilvie's syndrome, is believed to be a condition induced by other causes that are different from a chronic colonic pseudo-obstruction. The pathogenesis involves abnormalities in the autonomic nervous system induced by systemic diseases or medications, and it often improves when the primary causes are treated. On the other hand, a chronic colonic pseudo-obstruction can occur repeatedly without a particular cause. The authors encountered neuroleptic malignant syndrome that caused acute colonic pseudo-obstruction. This paper reports a case with a review of the relevant literature. This is the first case reported in Korea. This case shows that physicians should consider neuroleptic malignant syndrome as a cause of an acute colonic pseudo-obstruction.

Adverse drug reactions associated with concurrent acute psychiatric treatment and Covid-19 drug therapy

OBJECTIVE

Psychiatric patients are at increased risk of contamination, morbidity, and mortality associated with COVID-19, together with potentially more pronounced adverse effects. We present and discuss the adverse effects observed in an acute psychiatric clinic that has admitted COVID-19 patients during the first three months of the pandemic in Turkey.

METHODS

The COVID-19 treatment schemes were formed in accordance with the national and regional guidelines at the time of admittance, which were mainly based on the use of hydroxychloroquine and other drugs. The sample consisted exclusively of inpatients, and all patients were enrolled in the study regardless of their specific diagnosis or treatment schemes.

RESULTS

4 out of 23 patients (17.4%) had experienced adverse effects, two of which had mild hepatic enzyme elevation and one had mild sinus bradycardia. Of note is that we haven't encountered any serious complications or life-threatening events during inpatient treatment. The most emphasised adverse effect in the literature, namely QTc prolongation and ECG changes, were not observed in our sample. The adverse effects were not found to be significantly associated with patient-related factors nor dose of antipsychotic medication.

CONCLUSIONS

From our point of view, non-cardiac adverse effects should not be overlooked while treating comorbid psychiatric and COVID-19 patients.KEY POINTSAcute inpatient psychiatric treatment of patients who have comorbid COVID-19 is a complex situation requiring multidisciplinary action.Adverse drug reactions, which may or not result from the interaction of psychiatric and COVID-19 treatment, should be of concern for this patient group.While there is controversy over the benefits of some of the off-label COVID-19 medications, there should also be discussion over safety and concomitant medication use.In order to be adequately prepared for future escalations of COVID-19 pandemic, psychiatric services should thoroughly evaluate their initial experience with COVID-19, including from the point of drug effectiveness and safety.

Factors associated with laxative use in schizophrenia patients treated with second-generation antipsychotics

The aim of this study was to investigate factors associated with concomitant laxative use among schizophrenia patients discharged on second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) at two large psychiatric hospitals in Taiwan. Patients with schizophrenia who were discharged between 2006 and 2017 and received SGA monotherapy at discharge were included in the analysis. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with regular laxative use at discharge. Multivariate Cox regression was used to determine the effect of laxative use at discharge on time to rehospitalization within one year. The Cochran-Armitage trend test was used to evaluate whether significant time trends existed for rates of laxative use at discharge during the study period. Among patients discharged on SGAs (n = 11,861), 3,336 (28.1%) also received concomitant laxatives. Advanced age and higher antipsychotic or anticholinergic doses were found to be associated with an increase in laxative use. Among SGAs, clozapine was associated with the highest rate of laxative use, followed by zotepine, quetiapine, olanzapine and risperidone. Additionally, risperidone, amisulpride, aripiprazole, paliperidone and ziprasidone were associated with comparable rates of laxative use. In contrast, sulpiride was least associated with laxative use among all SGAs. Regular laxative use at discharge was found to be significantly associated with psychiatric rehospitalization. Also, rate of laxative use at discharge increased significantly during the study period. Laxative use is common in schizophrenia patients treated with SGAs. For clinically significant constipation, switching to an SGA with a lower risk for constipation, and decreasing the doses of SGAs and anticholinergics should be considered.

Dose-dependent effects of antipsychotics on efficacy and adverse effects in schizophrenia

BACKGROUND

Antipsychotics are a cornerstone of pharmacological treatment of schizophrenia. Improved understanding of the dose-response relationship of antipsychotics in terms of efficacy, adverse effects, and mortality can help to optimize the pharmacological treatment of schizophrenia.

METHODS

This narrative literature review summarizes current evidence on the relationship of antipsychotic dose with efficacy, adverse effects, and mortality in patients with schizophrenia.

RESULTS

The efficacy of antipsychotics generally appeared to be highly dose-dependent in the acute phase of schizophrenia, with each antipsychotic having a specific dose-response curve. The presence or absence of dose-dependency and its extent varied according to the type of adverse effect. Parkinsonism, hyperprolactinemia, weight gain, and neurocognitive impairment appeared to be dose-related. The following adverse effects might be at least somewhat dose-dependent: akathisia, tardive dyskinesia, osteoporosis, sexual dysfunction, diabetes mellitus, myocardial infarction, stroke, thromboembolism, QT interval prolongation, anticholinergic adverse effects, somnolence, pneumonia, hip fracture, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. In contrast, the relationships of antipsychotic dose with dyslipidemia, hypotension, seizure, sialorrhea, and neutropenia and agranulocytosis remained unclear due to mixed findings and/or limited data. Although a higher lifetime cumulative antipsychotic dose might contribute to higher mortality, it is still difficult to conclude whether mortality increases in a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

These findings could help clinicians to optimize antipsychotic treatment in patients with schizophrenia by balancing risks and benefits in clinical practice. However, further investigations with larger sample sizes and more robust study designs that focus on each antipsychotic agent are needed.

Efficacy and Safety of Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine for Antipsychotic-Related Constipation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: Constipation is a common but often ignored side effect of antipsychotic treatment, although it is associated with adverse outcomes. The results of the efficacy and safety of traditional Chinese herbal medicine (TCM) in treating constipation are mixed across studies. This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of the efficacy and safety of TCM compared to Western medicine (WM) in treating antipsychotic-related constipation. Methods: Major international electronic (PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) and Chinese (Wanfang, WeiPu VIP, SinoMed, and CNKI) databases were searched from their inception to November 29, 2020. Meta-analysis was performed using the random-effects model. Results: Thirty RCTs with 52 arms covering 2,570 patients in the TCM group and 2,511 patients in the WM group were included. Compared with WM, TCM alone was superior regarding the moderate response rate [risk ratio (RR) = 1.165; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.096-1.238; P < 0.001], marked response rate (RR = 1.437; 95% CI: 1.267-1.692; P < 0.001), and remission rate (RR = 1.376; 95% CI: 1.180-1.606; P < 0.001) for constipation, while it was significantly associated with lower risk of rash (RR = 0.081; 95% CI: 0.019-0.342; P = 0.001). For the moderate response rate, meta-regression analyses revealed that publication year (β = -0.007, P = 0.0007) and Jadad score (β = 0.067, P < 0.001) significantly moderated the results. For the remission rate, subgroup and meta-regression analyses revealed that the geographical region (P = 0.003), inpatient status (P = 0.035), and trial duration (β = 0.009, P = 0.013) significantly moderated the results. Conclusions: The efficacy of TCM for antipsychotic-related constipation appeared to be greater compared to WM, while certain side effects of TCM, such as rash, were less frequent.

Challenges associated with treating and preventing antipsychotic-induced constipation: considerations and cautions when prescribing novel interventions

Antipsychotic-induced constipation is a treatment-limiting side effect for patients with serious mental illness (SMI). In addition to increased risk of constipation, due to adverse medication effects, individuals diagnosed with SMI are also prone to lifestyle factors that contribute to this medical complication. The USA Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently released enhanced warnings about the risk of serious, sometimes fatal, complications associated with constipation caused by the antipsychotic, clozapine. It is likely this heightened warning will prompt providers to seek additional means to prevent and treat antipsychotic-induced constipation, despite having no agent with FDA approval for this specific indication. Off-label prescribing of newer medications for the treatment of antipsychotic-induced constipation is associated with risks, many of which are still unknown, considering the exclusion of patients with SMI in studies measuring nonpsychiatric outcomes.

An Open-Label, Head to Head Comparison Study between Prucalopride and Lactulose for Clozapine Induced Constipation in Patients with Treatment Resistant Schizophrenia

Clozapine remains as the gold standard for the management of treatment resistant schizophrenia. Nevertheless, mortality and morbidity associated with Clozapine is partly contributed by its adverse effect of constipation in view of its prominent anticholinergic properties. Despite the evidence that approximately 60% of patients on Clozapine will experience constipation, there is no proper guideline as to the best laxative in the treatment of Clozapine induced constipation. Hence this study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Prucalopride and Lactulose in the treatment of Clozapine induced constipation. This was a four week, prospective, open-label head to head comparison study between Prucalopride and Lactulose in the treatment of Clozapine induced constipation. Male and female patients on Clozapine between the age of 18–60 with an established diagnosis of treatment resistant schizophrenia with ≤2 spontaneous complete bowel movement per week were recruited in this study. Eligible patients were assigned into two groups. Patients received Prucalopride 2 mg once daily or Lactulose 10 g once daily for four weeks. Efficacy was analyzed in 58 patients. The proportion of patient with ≥3 spontaneous complete bowel movement (SCBM) was higher in the Prucalopride 2 mg group, reaching significance at Week 4 with p-value of (p = 0.029). The proportion of patient with ≥3 SCBM at Week 1 was 71.4% in the Prucalopride 2 mg group and 60% in the Lactulose 10 g group. The proportion of patient with ≥3 SCBM at Week 4 was 85.7% in the Prucalopride 2 mg group and the proportion remained at 60% in the Lactulose 10 g group. The improvement in the dissatisfaction and treatment satisfaction subscales of the patient assessment of constipation—quality of life (PAC-QOL) were higher in the Prucalopride 2 mg group compared to the Lactulose 10 g group. The common adverse events associated with Prucalopride 2 mg were abdominal pain and loose stools which was transient and subsided within a few days. Over four weeks, in this population of patients with Clozapine induced constipation, Prucalopride 2 mg significantly improved the bowel movement and it was safe.

Paralytic ileus in the United States: A cross-sectional study from the national inpatient sample

Introduction:

Paralytic ileus is a common clinical condition leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Most studies to date have focused on postoperative ileus, a common but not exclusive cause of the condition. There are limited epidemiological data regarding the incidence and impact of paralytic ileus and its relationship to other clinical conditions. In this cross-sectional study, we analyzed national inpatient hospitalization trends, demographic variation, cost of care, length of stay, and mortality for paralytic ileus hospitalizations as a whole.

Methods:

The National Inpatient Sample database was used to identify all hospitalizations with the diagnosis of paralytic ileus (International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision code 560.1) as primary or secondary diagnosis during the period from 2001 to 2011. Statistical analysis was performed using Cochran–Armitage trend test, Wilcoxon rank sum test, and Poisson regression.

Results:

In 2001, there were 362,561 hospitalizations with the diagnosis of paralytic ileus as compared to 470,110 in 2011 (p < 0.0001). The age group 65–79 years was most commonly affected by paralytic ileus throughout the study period. In-hospital all-cause mortality decreased from 6.03% in 2001 to 5.10% in 2011 (p < 0.0001). However, the average cost of care per hospitalization increased from US$19,739 in 2001 to US$26,198 in 2011 (adjusted for inflation, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

There was a significant rise in the number of hospitalizations of paralytic ileus with increased cost of care and reduced all-cause mortality.

Reporting of clozapine-induced gastrointestinal hypomotility and factors associated with fatal outcomes in Canada: A pharmacovigilance database study

Clozapine-induced gastrointestinal hypomotility (CIGH) is poorly understood and potentially life-threatening. Herein, we present trends of CIGH annual reporting and explore factors associated with a fatal outcome using 25-years of pharmacovigilance data in Canada. Since 1993, the number of CIGH reports increased 22-fold but the proportion of fatal reports remained relatively stable. Fatal reports of CIGH were associated with older age but not sex, clozapine dose, or clozapine duration. Concomitant use of medications used to treat CIGH (lactulose, docusate sodium) and its associated pain/discomfort (acetaminophen, lorazepam) were more commonly reported in fatal cases. Confirmatory and prospective studies of CIGH are warranted.

Sex differences in text-mined possible adverse drug events associated with drugs for psychosis

BACKGROUND

Understanding sex differences in adverse drug reactions to drugs for psychosis could potentially guide clinicians in optimal drug choices.

AIMS

By applying a text-mining approach, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between drugs for psychosis and biological sex differences in frequencies and co-occurrences of potential adverse drug events (ADEs).

METHODS

Electronic patient records of a psychiatric population (1427 men and 727 women) were text mined for potential ADEs. The relative risk of experiencing specific ADEs and co-occurrence of ADEs were calculated for each sex.

RESULTS

Findings included 55 potential ADEs with significantly different frequencies between the two sexes. Of these, 20 were more frequent in men, with relative risks of 1.10-7.64, and 35 were more frequent in women, with relative risks of 1.19-21.58. Frequent potential ADEs were psychiatric symptoms, including sexual dysfunction and disturbances in men, and gastrointestinal symptoms, suicidal and self-injurious behaviour and hyperprolactinemia-related events in women. Mention of different hyperprolactinemia-related ADEs often co-occurred in female patients but not in male patients.

CONCLUSION

Several known sex-related ADEs were identified, as well as some previously not reported. When considering the risk-benefit profile of drugs for psychosis, the patient's sex should be considered.

Clozapine: why wait to start a laxative?

Clozapine, the antipsychotic of choice for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, has a number of side-effects, some of which are potentially life-threatening. Historically viewed as a relatively minor side-effect, there is increasing awareness of the potentially severe sequalae of constipation secondary to clozapine-induced gastrointestinal hypomotility (CIGH). These include ileus, intestinal obstruction, bowel ischaemia, gastrointestinal necrosis, toxic megacolon and death. CIGH is significantly more common than clozapine-induced blood dyscrasias and has a higher mortality rate. Although strict criteria must be followed to assertively monitor, detect and treat blood dyscrasias in patients taking clozapine, no such framework exists for CIGH. We recommend that prescribing guidelines, regulatory agencies and information from manufacturers should more clearly highlight the risks identified in the literature. Furthermore, we recommend that, in people taking clozapine, constipation should be prevented by prophylactic treatment with laxatives rather than treated only when clinically identified.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

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Co-administration of Magnesium Oxide Reduces the Serum Concentration of Hydrophobic Basic Drugs in Patients Treated with Antipsychotic Drugs

Magnesium oxide (MgO) is a widely used laxative. Because many antipsychotic drugs are lipophilic-basic-compounds, their solubility decreases with increasing pH and changes markedly as the pH of the solution approaches their pK_a. It is highly important to clarify the effect of co-administration of MgO on the serum drug concentration for effective, safe, and appropriate medication therapy. However, the relationship between MgO administration and the serum concentration of antipsychotic drugs in patients with schizophrenia has not been reported. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the effect of MgO administration on the concentration of antipsychotic drugs in the blood of patients with schizophrenia. The serum concentrations of biperiden, zotepine, and risperidone were assayed using an LC/MS system. The correlation between the daily dose of MgO and the relative-drug-concentration (rCp) in each patient was examined. As the MgO dose was increased, the risperidone concentration decreased. The correlation coefficient decreased for risperidone, zotepine, and biperiden, in the same order. To clarify the difference in the suppression potency of MgO on the three drugs, the relationship between the physical properties and the correlation coefficients of each drug was carefully examined. A strong correlation was observed between the pK_a and the correlation coefficient. Patients with schizophrenia are often prescribed antipsychotic drugs, which have anticholinergic action and tend to suppress gastric acid secretion. We concluded that basic drug absorption might be suppressed due to an increase in the stomach pH following MgO administration. Therefore, MgO co-administration is better to avoid while taking antipsychotic drugs and anticholinergic drugs.

Constipation, ileus and medication use during clozapine treatment in patients with schizophrenia in Iceland

Purpose of the article: Clozapine is the only evidence based treatment for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Constipation is a well known side effect of clozapine treatment. The aims of this study are to describe the prevalence of constipation and ileus during clozapine treatment of patients with schizophrenia in Iceland and to assess the concomitant use of medication that can cause constipation, and laxatives used to treat constipation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We identified 188 patients treated with clozapine by searching the electronic health records of Landspitali, the National University Hospital, during the study period 1.1.1998 - 21.11.2014. Cases of constipation and ileus were identified using an electronic search with keywords related to ileus in the patients' electronic health records. Detailed medication use was available for 154 patients that used clozapine for at least one year.

RESULTS

Four out of 188 patients were diagnosed with ileus that resulted in admission to hospital. Two of these required a permanent stoma as a consequence of their ileus. Laxatives were prescribed for 24 out of 154 patients (15.4%) while on clozapine. In total 40.9% of the patients either had laxatives prescribed or had constipation documented in the medical records. Apart from clozapine, other medications known to cause constipation were prescribed to 28 out of 154 patients (18.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Constipation is a common problem during clozapine treatment which can progress to full-blown ileus which can be fatal. Clinicians need to monitor signs of constipation during treatment with clozapine and respond to it with lifestyle advice and laxative treatment.

Management of common adverse effects of antipsychotic medications

The benefits of antipsychotic medications are sometimes obscured by their adverse effects. These effects range from relatively minor tolerability issues (e.g., mild sedation or dry mouth) to very unpleasant (e.g., constipation, akathisia, sexual dysfunction) to painful (e.g., acute dystonias) to disfiguring (e.g., weight gain, tardive dyskinesia) to life-threatening (e.g., myocarditis, agranulocytosis). Importantly, adverse effect profiles are specific to each antipsychotic medication and do not neatly fit into first- and second-generation classifications. This paper reviews management strategies for the most frequent side effects and identifies common principles intended to optimize net antipsychotic benefits. Only use antipsychotics if the indication is clear; only continue antipsychotics if a benefit is discernible. If an antipsychotic is providing substantial benefit, and the adverse effect is not life-threatening, then the first management choice is to lower the dose or adjust the dosing schedule. The next option is to change the antipsychotic; this is often reasonable unless the risk of relapse is high. In some instances, behavioral interventions can be tried. Finally, concomitant medications, though generally not desirable, are necessary in many instances and can provide considerable relief. Among concomitant medication strategies, anticholinergic medications for dystonias and parkinsonism are often effective; beta-blockers and anticholinergic medications are useful for akathisia; and metformin may lead to slight to moderate weight loss. Anticholinergic drops applied sublingually reduce sialorrhea. Usual medications are effective for constipation or dyslipidemias. The clinical utility of recently approved treatments for tardive dyskinesia, valbenazine and deutetrabenazine, is unclear.

Learned lessons from patients who take clozapine: A case study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this report is to provide clinical strategies to manage patients with schizophrenia taking clozapine.

CONCLUSIONS

Serious side effects and required blood monitoring impede the use of clozapine, despite the benefits of clozapine for managing psychiatric symptoms. Well-managed patients receiving evidence-based interventions exhibit reduced symptoms, improved functioning, and better adherence to treatment.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Preexisting medical conditions should be considered before prescribing clozapine. Ongoing education on medication and mental illness for patients and family members is essential to prepare them for adherence to management plans. Healthcare providers are responsible for monitoring the side effects of clozapine.

Acute Abdomen with Ileus: A Heralding Presentation of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome

The pathophysiology of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) with use of psychotropic drugs is still unclear. Although a rare event with an incidence of 0.02–3.2%, when not promptly recognized and managed, it carries a high mortality (10–20%) and morbidity rate. Presentation can be either typical, with muscle rigidity and hyperpyrexia, or atypical, the latter posing diagnostic and early management challenges in clinical practice. Our patient presented with delayed fever and ileus, making early diagnosis difficult. We propose that NMS be considered an alternate diagnosis in patients using psychotropic medications and manifest ileus and delayed fever, especially after other differentials have been excluded.

Genetic Polymorphisms Associated With Constipation and Anticholinergic Symptoms in Patients Receiving Clozapine

BACKGROUND

Clozapine impairs gastrointestinal motility owing to its anticholinergic and antiserotonergic properties. This commonly leads to constipation and potentially to more severe complications such as bowel obstruction and ischemia. The aim of this study was to determine whether genetic variations in the genes encoding muscarinic and serotonergic receptors (CHRM2, CHRM3, HTR2, HTR3, HTR4, and HTR7) explain the variations in incidence of constipation and anticholinergic symptoms during clozapine treatment. Genes associated with opiate-induced constipation were also included in this analysis (TPH1, OPRM1, ABCB1, and COMT).

PROCEDURES

Blood samples from 176 clozapine-treated, Finnish, white patients with schizophrenia were genotyped. Constipation and anticholinergic symptoms were rated using the Liverpool University Neuroleptic Side Effect Rating Scale self-report questionnaire. In total, 192 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected and grouped to formulate a weighted genetic-risk score (GRS).

RESULTS

No significant associations between individual SNPs or GRSs and constipation or laxative use were observed. A GRS of 19 SNPs in CHRM2, CHRM3, HTR3C, HTR7, ABCB1, OPRM1, and TPH1 was associated with anticholinergic symptoms in a generalized linear univariate model, with body mass index, clozapine monotherapy, and GRS as explaining variables (permuted P = 0.014). Generalized linear univariate model analysis performed on the opiate-induced constipation-associated SNPs and a single CHRM3 SNP revealed an association between anticholinergic symptoms and a score of 8 SNPs (adjusted P = 0.038, permuted P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Two GRSs are able to predict the risk of anticholinergic symptoms in patients receiving clozapine and possibly an increased risk of gastrointestinal hypomotility.