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Qubad M, Dupont G, Hahn M, Martin SS, Puntmann V, Nagel E, Reif A, Bittner RA. When, Why and How to Re-challenge Clozapine in Schizophrenia Following Myocarditis. CNS Drugs 2024; 38:671-696. [PMID: 38951464 PMCID: PMC11316720 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-024-01100-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
Clozapine-induced myocarditis (CIM) is among the most important adverse events limiting the use of clozapine as the most effective treatment for schizophrenia. CIM necessitates the immediate termination of clozapine, often resulting in its permanent discontinuation with considerable detrimental effects on patients' psychopathology and long-term outcome. Consequently, a clozapine re-challenge after CIM is increasingly regarded as a viable alternative, with published reports indicating a success rate of approximately 60%. However, published cases of re-challenges after CIM remain limited. Here, we provide a narrative review of the current state of research regarding the epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors, diagnosis and clinical management of CIM as well as a synthesis of current recommendations for re-challenging patients after CIM. This includes a step-by-step guide for this crucial procedure based on the current evidence regarding the pathophysiology and risk factors for CIM. Slow dose titration regimes and addressing risk factors including concomitant valproate and olanzapine are crucial both to prevent CIM and to ensure a safe and successful re-challenge. Furthermore, we discuss the utility of C-reactive protein, troponin, N-terminal-pro hormone and brain natriuretic peptide, therapeutic drug-monitoring and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging for CIM screening and diagnosis as well as for post-CIM re-challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mishal Qubad
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Gabriele Dupont
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Martina Hahn
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
- Department of Mental Health, Varisano Hospital Frankfurt Hoechst, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Simon S Martin
- Department of Radiology, Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Valentina Puntmann
- Department of Cardiology, Institute for Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Eike Nagel
- Department of Cardiology, Institute for Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andreas Reif
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Robert A Bittner
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Goethe University Frankfurt, University Hospital, Frankfurt, Germany.
- Ernst Strüngmann Institute for Neuroscience (ESI) in Cooperation with Max Planck Society, Frankfurt, Germany.
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Zafeiri M, Knott K, Lampejo T. Acute myocarditis: an overview of pathogenesis, diagnosis and management. Panminerva Med 2024; 66:174-187. [PMID: 38536007 DOI: 10.23736/s0031-0808.24.05042-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Acute myocarditis encompasses a diverse presentation of inflammatory cardiomyopathies with infectious and non-infectious triggers. The clinical presentation is heterogeneous, from subtle symptoms like mild chest pain to life-threatening fulminant heart failure requiring urgent advanced hemodynamic support. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the pathogenesis, diagnostic approach, management strategies, and directions for future research in acute myocarditis. The pathogenesis of myocarditis involves interplay between the inciting factors and the subsequent host immune response. Infectious causes, especially cardiotropic viruses, are the most frequently identified precipitants. However, autoimmune processes independent of microbial triggers, as well as toxic myocardial injury from drugs, chemicals or metabolic derangements also contribute to the development of myocarditis through diverse mechanisms. Furthermore, medications like immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies are increasingly recognized as causes of myocarditis. Elucidating the nuances of viral, autoimmune, hypersensitivity, and toxic subtypes of myocarditis is key to guiding appropriate therapy. The heterogeneous clinical presentation coupled with non-specific symptoms creates diagnostic challenges. A multifaceted approach is required, incorporating clinical evaluation, electrocardiography, biomarkers, imaging studies, and endomyocardial biopsy. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging has become pivotal for non-invasive assessment of myocardial inflammation and fibrosis. However, biopsy remains the gold standard for histological classification and definitively establishing the underlying etiology. Management relies on supportive care, while disease-specific therapies are limited. Although some patients recover well with conservative measures, severe or fulminant myocarditis necessitates aggressive interventions such as mechanical circulatory support devices and transplantation. While immunosuppression is beneficial in certain histological subtypes, clear evidence supporting antiviral or immunomodulatory therapies for the majority of acute viral myocarditis cases remains insufficient. Substantial knowledge gaps persist regarding validated diagnostic biomarkers, optimal imaging surveillance strategies, evidence-based medical therapies, and risk stratification schema. A deeper understanding of the immunopathological mechanisms, rigorous clinical trials of targeted therapies, and longitudinal outcome studies are imperative to advance management and improve the prognosis across the myocarditis spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Zafeiri
- King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Temi Lampejo
- King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK -
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Bellissima BL, Burns KE, Helsby NA, Kingston EL, Garavan F, Tingle MD. Clozapine metabolism and cardiotoxicity: A prospective longitudinal study. Int J Cardiol 2024; 403:131788. [PMID: 38244893 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2024.131788] [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: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clozapine-induced myocarditis and cardiomyopathy are difficult to detect clinically and may be fatal if not detected early. The current/routine biomarkers for clozapine-induced myocarditis are non-specific indicators of inflammation (C-reactive protein) or cardiomyocyte damage (troponins I and T) that lack sensitivity, and for which changes often arise too late to be clinically useful. METHODS The Clozapine Safety Study was a prospective, longitudinal, observational study to determine what, if any, the plasma concentrations of clozapine, N-desmethylclozapine, and clozapine-N-oxide in patients contribute to cardiotoxicity. Samples were collected and analysed using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry over a 41-month period from patients in the Auckland District Health Board. RESULTS Sixty-seven patients were included. Six patients were diagnosed with myocarditis; none were diagnosed with cardiomyopathy in the study period. In patients not undergoing dose titration, clozapine biotransformation may shift to the N-oxide pathway rather than the N-desmethyl pathway with increasing dose. During dose titration, the timeframe in which myocarditis occurs, the rate of increase in the plasma concentration of clozapine-N-oxide, as well as the ratio of N-oxidation relative to N-desmethylation, were significantly higher in patients diagnosed with myocarditis. CONCLUSIONS The assessment of clozapine-N-oxide formation, and N-oxidation relative to N-desmethylation ratios during treatment, may help identify a biomarker to aid the early detection of patients at risk of developing clozapine-induced cardiotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandi L Bellissima
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Kathryn E Burns
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Nuala A Helsby
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Ellen L Kingston
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
| | - Fintan Garavan
- Department of Forensic Pathology, Auckland District Health Board, LabPLUS, Auckland City Hospital, Gate 4, Grafton Road, PO Box 110031, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Malcom D Tingle
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
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Qubad M, Bittner RA. Second to none: rationale, timing, and clinical management of clozapine use in schizophrenia. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2023; 13:20451253231158152. [PMID: 36994117 PMCID: PMC10041648 DOI: 10.1177/20451253231158152] [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: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite its enduring relevance as the single most effective and important evidence-based treatment for schizophrenia, underutilization of clozapine remains considerable. To a substantial degree, this is attributable to a reluctance of psychiatrists to offer clozapine due to its relatively large side-effect burden and the complexity of its use. This underscores the necessity for continued education regarding both the vital nature and the intricacies of clozapine treatment. This narrative review summarizes all clinically relevant areas of evidence, which support clozapine's wide-ranging superior efficacy - for treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) and beyond - and make its safe use eminently feasible. Converging evidence indicates that TRS constitutes a distinct albeit heterogeneous subgroup of schizophrenias primarily responsive to clozapine. Most importantly, the predominantly early onset of treatment resistance and the considerable decline in response rates associated with its delayed initiation make clozapine an essential treatment option throughout the course of illness, beginning with the first psychotic episode. To maximize patients' benefits, systematic early recognition efforts based on stringent use of TRS criteria, a timely offer of clozapine, thorough side-effect screening and management as well as consistent use of therapeutic drug monitoring and established augmentation strategies for suboptimal responders are crucial. To minimize permanent all-cause discontinuation, re-challenges after neutropenia or myocarditis should be considered. Owing to clozapine's unique efficacy, comorbid conditions including substance use and most somatic disorders should not dissuade but rather encourage clinicians to consider clozapine. Moreover, treatment decisions need to be informed by the late onset of clozapine's full effects, which for reduced suicidality and mortality rates may not even be readily apparent. Overall, the singular extent of its efficacy combined with the high level of patient satisfaction continues to distinguish clozapine from all other available antipsychotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mishal Qubad
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Robert A. Bittner
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Heinrich-Hoffmann-Str. 10, D-60528 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Ernst Strüngmann Institute (ESI) for Neuroscience in Cooperation with Max Planck Society, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Successful Clozapine Rechallenge After Suspected Clozapine-Associated Myocarditis: A Case Report. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2021; 41:218-220. [PMID: 33528148 DOI: 10.1097/jcp.0000000000001339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Golpour A, Patriki D, Hanson PJ, McManus B, Heidecker B. Epidemiological Impact of Myocarditis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:603. [PMID: 33562759 PMCID: PMC7915005 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10040603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the heart muscle with a wide range of potential etiological factors and consequently varying clinical patterns across the world. In this review, we address the epidemiology of myocarditis. Myocarditis was considered a rare disease until intensified research efforts in recent decades revealed its true epidemiological importance. While it remains a challenge to determine the true prevalence of myocarditis, studies are underway to obtain better approximations of the proportions of this disease. Nowadays, the prevalence of myocarditis has been reported from 10.2 to 105.6 per 100,000 worldwide, and its annual occurrence is estimated at about 1.8 million cases. This wide range of reported cases reflects the uncertainty surrounding the true prevalence and a potential underdiagnosis of this disease. Since myocarditis continues to be a significant public health issue, particularly in young adults in whom myocarditis is among the most common causes of sudden cardiac death, improved diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are necessary. This manuscript aims to summarize the current knowledge on the epidemiology of myocarditis, new diagnostic approaches and the current epidemiological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ainoosh Golpour
- Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charite Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 12203 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Dimitri Patriki
- Department of Medicine, Cantonal Hospital of Baden, 15005 Baden, Switzerland;
| | - Paul J. Hanson
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5K0A1, Canada; (P.J.H.); (B.M.)
| | - Bruce McManus
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5K0A1, Canada; (P.J.H.); (B.M.)
| | - Bettina Heidecker
- Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charite Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 12203 Berlin, Germany;
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Hosseini SA, Skrzypcak B, Yasaei R, Abdijadid S, Joolhar F, Win TT, Moosavi L. Successful Clozapine Re-Challenge After Suspected Clozapine-Induced Myocarditis. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2020; 21:e926507. [PMID: 33137026 PMCID: PMC7647933 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.926507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clozapine plays a unique role in the management of treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS). Clozapine re-challenge following an episode of myocarditis is controversial, with a very limited literature, although it may be crucial in the recovery of certain patients. To date and to the best of our knowledge, only 10 of 22 studied cases reported successful clozapine retrial after myocarditis. CASE REPORT We present the case of a 22-year-old Hispanic man with treatment-resistant schizophrenia and polysubstance use disorder (methamphetamine, cannabis, and alcohol) initiated on aggressive clozapine titration after lack of response to several other therapies. Approximately 16 days after clozapine trial, the patient developed cardiac function impairment, presenting with chest pain, notable elevation in several biomarkers (troponin: 0.72 ng/ml, ESR >100 mm/h, CRP: 20.8 mg/dl, and BNP: 999 ng/ml), and a depressed ejection fraction at 25%. Further assessments also showed positive hepatitis A serology. Following discontinuation of clozapine and providing supportive care, the patient's physical symptoms resolved. He had a relapse of psychotic symptoms, which were refractory to treatment with other antipsychotic agents. Subsequently, the patient underwent a second clozapine trial under close monitoring, with resolution of his psychosis. Repeated echocardiography demonstrated improved EF to 50%, transaminitis was resolved, repeat blood test results were normalized, and the patient was discharged while he was stabilized and asymptomatic. CONCLUSIONS This case adds to the previous case reports and suggests that clinicians may consider clozapine re-challenge following an episode of myocarditis based on clinical judgment, on a case-by-case basis, and under close monitoring. We highlight the need for development of clinical guidelines for clozapine re-challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rama Yasaei
- Department of Psychiatry, Kern Medical, Bakersfield, CA, U.S.A
| | - Sara Abdijadid
- Department of Psychiatry, Kern Medical, Bakersfield, CA, U.S.A
| | - Fowrooz Joolhar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Kern Medical, Bakersfield, CA, U.S.A
| | - Theingi Tiffany Win
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Kern Medical, Bakersfield, CA, U.S.A
| | - Leila Moosavi
- Department of Medicine, Kern Medical, Bakersfield, CA, U.S.A
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Over the last decade, myocarditis has been increasingly recognized as common cause of sudden cardiac death in young adults and heart failure overall. The purpose of this review is to discuss hypothesis of development of non-infectious myocarditis, to provide a description of the immunopathogenesis and the most common mechanisms of autoimmunity in myocarditis, and to provide an update on therapeutic options. RECENT FINDINGS A new entity of myocarditis is immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) induced myocarditis. ICIs are used in advanced cancer to "disinhibit" the immune system and make it more aggressive in fighting cancer. This novel drug class has doubled life expectancy in metastatic melanoma and significantly increased progression free survival in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer, but comes with a risk of autoimmune diseases such as myocarditis resulting from an overly aggressive immune system. Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the heart with major public health impact. Thorough understanding of its immunopathogenesis is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
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