Canadian guidelines for the evidence-based treatment of tic disorders: pharmacotherapy

Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of aripiprazole oral solution in children and adolescents with Tourette's disorder

BACKGROUND

Aripiprazole is the most frequently recommended antipsychotic for the treatment of tics in children and adolescents with Tourette's disorder (TD). However, to date, a randomized controlled trial for aripiprazole oral solution has not been conducted despite being widely preferred by children. Therefore, we examined whether aripiprazole oral solution is effective for treating tics.

METHODS

All patients received a flexible dose of aripiprazole oral solution (1 mg/mL, range: 2-20 mg) with a starting dose of 2 mg. The target dose for patients weighing < 50 kg was 2, 5, and 10 mg/day, and that for patients weighing ≥ 50 kg was 5, 10, 15, and 20 mg/day. The primary efficacy endpoint was the mean change in the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale-total tic score (YGTSS-TTS) from baseline to week 8.

RESULTS

Of the 121 patients enrolled, 59 patients (96.7%) in the aripiprazole group and 53 patients (88.3%) in the placebo group completed the study. The aripiprazole group showed significantly greater improvement in the YGTSS-TTS from baseline to week 8 than the placebo group (least squares mean difference [95% confidence interval (CI)] -5.5 [95% CI - 8.4 to - 2.6]). At week 8, the response rate (i.e., percentage of patients with a Tourette's Syndrome Clinical Global Impression-Improvement score of 1 or 2) of the aripiprazole group (86.4%) was significantly higher than that of the placebo group (56.6%; odds ratio: 3.6, p < 0.001). The incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) reported in at least one patient was 86.9% in the aripiprazole group and 65.5% in the placebo group. All TEAEs were mild or moderate in severity. No serious adverse events or deaths occurred during the study.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that aripiprazole oral solution is an effective, well-tolerated, and safe treatment for children and adolescents with TD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03487783. Registered 4 April 2018.

Clonidine Patch for Tourette Syndrome With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

OBJECTIVE

To explore the efficacy and safety of clonidine adhesive patch in Tourette syndrome (TS) patients with comorbid attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

METHODS

This study was conducted on a sample of children and adolescents with TS who had comorbid ADHD between May 2012 and March 2015. The patients were diagnosed according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Edition, and were randomly assigned to four different dose groups: 1.0 mg/week, 1.5 mg/week, 2.0 mg/week and placebo group, and the symptom was evaluated by Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Rating Scale, Version IV (SNAP-IV) and Yale Global Tic Severity Scale scales every 2 weeks. The primary outcome was tic disorders (TD) effective rate at week 8.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-seven TS patients with comorbid ADHD in 2.0 mg/week (n=35), 1.5 mg/week (n=27), 1.0 mg/week (n=36) and placebo groups (n=29) were included in this subgroup analysis. The TD effective rate of the 2.0 mg, 1.5 mg, and 1.0 mg groups at week 8 were significantly better than that in placebo group (85.7%, 81.5%, and 86.1% vs. 20.7%, all p<0.0001). All groups demonstrated significant improvements in SNAP-IV total scale scores compared to baseline (p=0.0004), with treatment groups showing only a trend for better performance compared to placebo group at week 8, without statistical differences (22.1±15.41, 21.3±11.96, and 21.2±12.48 vs. 26.0±13.37, p=0.3385). A total of 9 adverse reactions occurred, all recovered spontaneously without additional medication.

CONCLUSION

Clonidine adhesive patch could safely and effectively reduce the tic symptoms of TS patients with comorbid ADHD, and might be potentially helpful in the ADHD symptoms control.

Pharmacological treatment of Tourette's syndrome: from the past to the future

Tourette's syndrome (TS) is a neuropsychiatric disease featuring tics and vocal tics, with a prevalence of approximately 1%, including 75% of the total number of male patients. TS seriously disturbs the patients' career, education, and life and brings a serious and unbearable psychological burden to the patients themselves and their families. At present, there are no specific clinical medications recommended for treating TS. Therefore, it is necessary to select the appropriate medication for symptomatic treatment based on the doctor's personal experience and the patient's symptoms, with the main goal of relieving symptoms, thus improving the patient's social skills and psychological problems. Here we conducted a comprehensive search on PubMed to review and organize the history and current status of the development of drug therapy for TS through a timeline format. We also systematically evaluated the effects of each drug for TS treatment to summarize the current problems and new research directions and to provide some ideas for clinical treatment.

An Update on the Diagnosis and Management of Tic Disorders

Tic disorders (TDs) are a group of common neuropsychiatric disorders of childhood and adolescence. TDs may impact the physical, emotional, and social well-being of the affected person. In this review, we present an update on the clinical manifestations, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of TDs. We searched the PubMed database for articles on tics and Tourette syndrome. More than 400 articles were reviewed, of which 141 are included in this review. TDs are more prevalent in children than in adults and in males than in females. It may result from a complex interaction between various genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. Dysregulation in the cortico-striato-pallido-thalamo-cortical network is the most plausible pathophysiology resulting in tics. TD is a clinical diagnosis based on clinical features and findings on neurological examination, especially the identification of tic phenomenology. In addition to tics, TD patients may have sensory features, including premonitory urge; enhanced and persistent sensitivity to non-noxious external or internal stimuli; and behavioral manifestations, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Clinical findings of hyperkinetic movements that usually mimic tics have been compared and contrasted with those of TD. Patients with TD may not require specific treatment if tics are not distressing. Psychoeducation and supportive therapy can help reduce tics when combined with medication. Dispelling myths and promoting acceptance are important to improve patient outcomes. Using European, Canadian, and American guidelines, the treatment of TD, including behavioral therapy, medical therapy, and emerging/experimental therapy, has been discussed.

Integrated network pharmacology and experimental verification to explore the molecular mechanism of Jingxin Zhidong formula for treating Tic disorder

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As a traditional Chinese medicine formula, Jingxin Zhidong Formula (JXZDF) based on ancient amber powder has been prescribed to alleviate tic disorders (TD) according to our clinical practice for many years. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unknown.

AIM OF STUDY

To explore the potential mechanism of JXZDF in the treatment of TD by using network pharmacology and experimental validation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The chemical components of JXZDF were detected and the potential pathway enrichment analyses were conducted based on network pharmacology. Finally, we performed cell viability assays and Western blotting on LPS-induced BV-2 cells, and subsequently performed behavioral tests and Western blotting in SD rats model for TD to explore the mechanism of JXZDF on TD.

RESULTS

By LC-ESI-MS/MS system and searching the databases, we identified 5 key compounds and 29 hub targets of JXZDF on TD. KEGG enrichment analysis showed that PI3K/AKT signaling pathway may be the key pathway for JXZDF on TD. The vitro experimental results proved that JXZDF can inhibit the phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT proteins on LPS-induced BV-2 cells. The animal experimental results indicated that JXZDF can effectively alleviate the stereotypic behavior and hyperactivity of the TD rats, and downregulated PI3K/AKT pathway to inhibit microglia activation in the hippocampus tissue.

CONCLUSION

This study indicated that JXZDF can change microglial activation and expression of proinflammatory mediators through the inactivation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, which may be one of the mechanisms of JXZDF in treating TD.

Current and emerging pharmacotherapeutic strategies for Tourette syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a chronic tic disorder characterized by both motor and vocal tics. The vast majority of patients present with co-morbid behavioral problems, especially tic-related obsessive-compulsive behaviors and attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorder. Evidence-based guidelines on the pharmacotherapy of TS have become available in recent years.

AREAS COVERED

The main purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the current and emerging pharmacotherapeutic strategies for TS. A comprehensive search for the literature on the pharmacotherapy of tics was conducted using multiple databases (MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar), without date limits.

EXPERT OPINION

In consideration of the heterogeneity of the TS phenotypes, pharmacotherapy should be tailored to the individual patient. The choice of the pharmacological agent should take into account both the efficacy-to-tolerability ratio and the presence of co-morbid conditions. Evidence-based pharmacotherapy should aim at improving health-related quality life within a dynamic framework that typically requires active monitoring of the clinical presentation and reevaluation of the treatment intervention over time.

Medication Choices in Children With Tic Disorders in Mainland China, Macao, Hong Kong, and Taiwan: Perspectives of Guardians and Physicians

Objective: Survey pediatricians and guardians of children with tic disorder on medication needs and choices.

Methods: We designed a cross-sectional survey for pediatricians in mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, as well as for the guardians of patients with tic disorder from West China Second University Hospital. We collected and analyzed information on clinicians’ medical behavior and medication choices and on guardians’ knowledge of tic disorder, medical treatment behaviors, and medication choices and needs.

Results: We collected responses from 242 physicians and 610 guardians. For patients with tic disorder and without comorbidities, the first-line drugs selected by physicians were tiapride (60.74%), clonidine (32.64%), haloperidol (25.62%), aripiprazole (16.53%), and sulpiride (12.4%). Physicians reported making medication choices by considerations such as clinical guidelines, clinical efficacy, a low incidence of adverse drug reactions, sufficient clinical research evidence, convenient dosage forms, and patient adherence. Guardians reported making medication choices by considerations such as a low incidence of adverse drug reactions, physician recommendations, clinical efficacy, dose, dosage forms, and the convenience and steadiness of obtaining the medication. However, guardians exhibited insufficient knowledge of tic disorder and treatment options.

Conclusions: Physicians and patient guardians differ in their considerations when selecting medications, highlighting a gap in optimizing treatment.

European clinical guidelines for Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders-version 2.0. Part III: pharmacological treatment

In 2011, the European Society for the Study of Tourette Syndrome (ESSTS) published the first European guidelines for Tourette Syndrome (TS). We now present an update of the part on pharmacological treatment, based on a review of new literature with special attention to other evidence-based guidelines, meta-analyses, and randomized double-blinded studies. Moreover, our revision took into consideration results of a recent survey on treatment preferences conducted among ESSTS experts. The first preference should be given to psychoeducation and to behavioral approaches, as it strengthens the patients' self-regulatory control and thus his/her autonomy. Because behavioral approaches are not effective, available, or feasible in all patients, in a substantial number of patients pharmacological treatment is indicated, alone or in combination with behavioral therapy. The largest amount of evidence supports the use of dopamine blocking agents, preferably aripiprazole because of a more favorable profile of adverse events than first- and second-generation antipsychotics. Other agents that can be considered include tiapride, risperidone, and especially in case of co-existing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), clonidine and guanfacine. This view is supported by the results of our survey on medication preference among members of ESSTS, in which aripiprazole was indicated as the drug of first choice both in children and adults. In treatment resistant cases, treatment with agents with either a limited evidence base or risk of extrapyramidal adverse effects might be considered, including pimozide, haloperidol, topiramate, cannabis-based agents, and botulinum toxin injections. Overall, treatment of TS should be individualized, and decisions based on the patient's needs and preferences, presence of co-existing conditions, latest scientific findings as well as on the physician's preferences, experience, and local regulatory requirements.

European clinical guidelines for Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders-version 2.0. Part IV: deep brain stimulation

In 2011 the European Society for the Study of Tourette Syndrome (ESSTS) published its first European clinical guidelines for the treatment of Tourette Syndrome (TS) with part IV on deep brain stimulation (DBS). Here, we present a revised version of these guidelines with updated recommendations based on the current literature covering the last decade as well as a survey among ESSTS experts. Currently, data from the International Tourette DBS Registry and Database, two meta-analyses, and eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are available. Interpretation of outcomes is limited by small sample sizes and short follow-up periods. Compared to open uncontrolled case studies, RCTs report less favorable outcomes with conflicting results. This could be related to several different aspects including methodological issues, but also substantial placebo effects. These guidelines, therefore, not only present currently available data from open and controlled studies, but also include expert knowledge. Although the overall database has increased in size since 2011, definite conclusions regarding the efficacy and tolerability of DBS in TS are still open to debate. Therefore, we continue to consider DBS for TS as an experimental treatment that should be used only in carefully selected, severely affected and otherwise treatment-resistant patients.

A Phase-2 Pilot Study of a Therapeutic Combination of Δ9-Tetrahydracannabinol and Palmitoylethanolamide for Adults With Tourette's Syndrome

OBJECTIVE

There are few effective pharmacological treatments for Tourette's syndrome. Many patients with Tourette's syndrome experience impairing tic symptoms despite use of available evidence-based treatments. The investigators conducted a small, uncontrolled trial to examine the safety, tolerability, and dosing of THX-110, a combination of Δ⁹-tetrahydracannabinol (Δ⁹-THC) and palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), in Tourette's syndrome.

METHODS

A 12-week uncontrolled trial of THX-110 (maximum daily Δ⁹-THC dose, 10 mg, and a constant 800-mg dose of PEA) in 16 adults with Tourette's syndrome was conducted. The primary outcome was improvement on the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) total tic score. Secondary outcomes included measures of comorbid conditions and the number of participants who elected to continue treatment in the 24-week extension phase.

RESULTS

Tic symptoms significantly improved over time with THX-110 treatment. Improvement in tic symptoms was statistically significant within 1 week of starting treatment compared with baseline. THX-110 treatment led to an average improvement in tic symptoms of more than 20%, or a 7-point decrease in the YGTSS score. Twelve of the 16 participants elected to continue to the extension phase, and only two participants dropped out early. Side effects were common but were generally managed by decreasing Δ⁹-THC dosing, slowing the dosing titration, and shifting dosing to nighttime.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the initial data from this trial in adults with refractory Tourette's syndrome are promising, future randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trials are necessary to demonstrate efficacy of THX-110 treatment. The challenges raised by the difficulty in blinding trials due to the psychoactive properties of many cannabis-derived compounds need to be further appreciated in these trial designs.

Clinical Practice Patterns in Tic Disorders Among Movement Disorder Society Members

Background

Tic disorders belong to the broad spectrum of pediatric and adult movement disorders. The wide variability in clinical presentations, applied assessment tools, and treatments are poorly understood.

Objectives

To map practices and knowledge base of movement disorder clinicians concerning clinical features, pathophysiology, and treatment approaches in tic disorders.

Methods

A 33-item survey was developed by the Tic Disorders and Tourette syndrome Study Group members of the Movement Disorder Society. The survey was distributed to the complete society membership and included responses from 346 members, 314 of whom reported treating tic disorders.

Results

Approximately one third of survey respondents (35%) frequently evaluated patients with tics. The data revealed widespread use of existing guidelines (about 70%) and screening for comorbid disorders (>90%). The most common investigations used to rule out secondary causes of tics were imaging (92%), laboratory tests (66%) and neurophysiology (38%). Functional tics were the second most common tic etiology following primary tics. Only 27% of respondents reported confidence in knowledge about tic pathogenesis. Top rated interventions to treat tics were psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral intervention for tics (CBIT) and treatment for neuropsychiatric comorbidities. Antipsychotics were ranked as the most effective pharmacologic tic intervention.

Conclusions

The majority of movement disorders specialists do not frequently encounter tics. There was sparse knowledge about tic pathophysiology. Psychoeducation, CBIT, the treatment of neuropsychiatric comorbidities and use of antipsychotics emerged as the most common interventions to treat tics. These results provide insight into what will be needed to improve the diagnosis and treatment of tic disorders.

Pharmacological treatment for Tourette syndrome in children and adults: What is the quality of the evidence? A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by involuntary muscle movements manifesting as motor and vocal tics. In the majority, tics are manageable without medication. Where tics cause discomfort or impair function, behavioural or pharmaceutical treatments may be considered.

AIMS

To provide a meticulous examination of the quality of evidence for the current pharmacological treatments for TS.

METHODS

PubMed and Google Scholar were searched to identify randomised, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) of aripiprazole, risperidone, clonidine, guanfacine, haloperidol, pimozide, tiapride and sulpiride for the treatment of tics in children and adults with TS. Quality of reporting and risk of bias were assessed against the CONSORT checklist and Cochrane risk of bias criteria, respectively.

RESULTS

Seventeen RCTs were identified. Response rates reached 88.6% for aripiprazole, 68.9% for clonidine, 62.5% for risperidone and 19% for guanfacine. Statistically significant improvements were reported for all medications compared to placebo in at least one study and for at least one measure of tic severity. Most studies predated the CONSORT and Cochrane criteria and did not score highly when assessed on these measures.

CONCLUSIONS

There are relatively few placebo-controlled trials of commonly prescribed medications. Studies are often of poor quality and short duration. There is evidence for the efficacy of each medication, but no drug is clearly superior. Clonidine and guanfacine are better tolerated than antipsychotics, but less effective. There is too little evidence to determine whether adults respond differently from children.

The clinical intervention choice for pediatric tic disorder patients from a tertiary children's hospital in China: a large-scale retrospective study based on electronic medical records

Pharmacological intervention played an important role in the management of tic disorder. Large-scale prescription data for pediatric tic disorder patients in the real-world setting were scarce. The demographic and prescription data of tic disorder were extracted from the electronic medical records database of Beijing Children's Hospital from 2018 to 2020. The intervention choice for outpatient pediatric tic disorder patients was analyzed. A total of 20 417 patients were included, 28.1% (n = 5028) of them did not receive any pharmacological treatment. Over 70% were prescribed with anti-tic medication. For children less than 6 years of age, clonidine adhesive patches (CAPs) and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) were the common choice. With the age growing, the use of antipsychotics was on the rise; 22% (n = 3389) were prescribed for at least two anti-tic medication, and the most common medication combination group was tiapride and TCM (33.7%), followed by CAP and TCM (22.1%). The clinical intervention choice for tic disorder is highly individualized. The pharmacological choice was influenced by severity, duration of symptom, age, the acceptance of parents and other factors.

A Comprehensive Review of Tic Disorders in Children

Tics are characterized by sudden, rapid, recurrent, nonrhythmic movement or vocalization, and are the most common movement disorders in children. Their onset is usually in childhood and tics often will diminish within one year. However, some of the tics can persist and cause various problems such as social embarrassment, physical discomfort, or emotional impairments, which could interfere with daily activities and school performance. Furthermore, tic disorders are frequently associated with comorbid neuropsychiatric symptoms, which can become more problematic than tic symptoms. Unfortunately, misunderstanding and misconceptions of tic disorders still exist among the general population. Understanding tic disorders and their comorbidities is important to deliver appropriate care to patients with tics. Several studies have been conducted to elucidate the clinical course, epidemiology, and pathophysiology of tics, but they are still not well understood. This article aims to provide an overview about tics and tic disorders, and recent findings on tic disorders including history, definition, diagnosis, epidemiology, etiology, diagnostic approach, comorbidities, treatment and management, and differential diagnosis.

Specialty knowledge and competency standards for pharmacotherapy for pediatric obsessive-compulsive disorder

Evidence based treatments for pediatric Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) are delivered with varying levels of expertise. This paper is part of the phase two series by the International OCD Accreditation Task Force (ATF) to advance a standardized high level of care globally. This paper presents specific knowledge and competencies recommended for specialized practice for pediatric psychopharmacologists working with OCD, developed by an international group of clinicians with extensive expertise in assessment and treatment of OCD. Tabulated knowledge and competency standards are operationalized as clinician abilities with specification of evidence for each standard. The distinction between current practice guidelines and ATF standards is discussed. Drug treatment has a solid evidence base. However, it should not be applied isolated, but informed by broad competence in general child and adolescent psychiatry and pediatrics. Other treatment relevant areas such as specialty CBT, family functioning, developmental issues, and neurobiology require consideration. Drug treatment includes several phases with varying degrees of evidence: Starting up medication, titration to maximum tolerated dose, maintenance, termination, and relapse prevention. In complex cases, pharmacotherapy with weak evidence may be needed to target symptoms and/or co-morbidity. The ATF knowledge and competency standards presented will be reviewed and updated commensurate with research.

A Review of Cognitive and Behavioral Interventions for Tic Disorder

OBJECTIVES

Tic disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by multiple involuntary movements of muscles or vocalization. Although tic symptoms subside as the patient ages, some patients suffer from significant functional impairments related to severe tic symptoms. This manuscript aimed to review the latest scientific evidences for the effect of cognitive-behavioral interventions on tic disorder.

METHODS

The relevant studies were identified by searching medical research databases. We focused our search on studies published between 2000 and 2020 in order to reflect the latest scientific evidence. A total of 821 articles were identified in the initial database search and 27 articles were finally included for the review after the exclusion of duplicated and irrelevant articles.

RESULTS

Behavioral therapies including habit reversal training, Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics, and exposure and response prevention were the most widely studied interventions for tic disorder and are recommended as first-line treatments for tic disorders with high confidence. Cognitive psychophysiologic approaches were also reported to be effective.

CONCLUSION

Further studies are needed to support the future treatment of tics with low-cost and more widely available treatments, in order to ensure better treatment outcomes.

An International Survey of Health Care Services Available to Patients With Tourette Syndrome

Objective: Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neuropsychiatric disorder that is highly associated with several comorbidities. Given the complex and multifaceted nature of TS, the condition is managed by a wide variety of practitioners in different disciplines. The goal of this study was to investigate health service delivery and care practices by clinicians who see TS patients across different geographic settings internationally. Methods: A comprehensive questionnaire was developed to assess clinical care resources for patients with TS and was sent to clinicians in Canada (CA), the United States (US), Europe (EU), and the United Kingdom (UK). Responses were compared quantitatively between geographic regions. Results: The majority of respondents, regardless of region, reported that fewer than 40% of their case-load are patients with tics. The accessibility of TS services varied among regions, as indicated by differences in wait times, telemedicine offerings, comorbidity management and the availability of behavioral therapies. First-line pharmacotherapy preferences varied among physicians in different geographical regions with CA respondents preferring alpha-2-adrenergic agonists and respondents from the UK and EU preferring dopamine receptor antagonists. Discussion: The results suggest that there is a scarcity of specialized TS clinics, potentially making access to services challenging, especially for patients newly diagnosed with TS. Differences in regional pharmacotherapeutic preferences are reflected in various published treatment guidelines in EU and North America. The lack of dedicated specialists and telemedicine availability, coupled with differences in comorbidity management, highlight the need for interprofessional care and holistic management to improve health care delivery to patients with TS.

Aripiprazole for the treatment of Tourette syndrome

Introduction: Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by multiple tics which often persisting in forms of different severity throughout adult life. The prevalence of neuropsychiatric co-morbidity in patients with TS is high. Treatment of TS can involve pharmacological, behavioral, or, in rare cases, surgical therapies. Over the last two decades there has been growing interest in the use of aripiprazole, a novel partial dopamine receptor agonist, as a promising anti-tic agent.Areas covered: The authors reviewed the available literature evaluating the role of aripiprazole in the treatment of TS and other tic disorders in both children and adults. This includes data from five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and eleven open-label studies.Expert opinion: There is moderate quality evidence supporting the use of aripiprazole in reducing tic severity in children and adolescents, however there is a lack of robust evidence evaluating its use in adults, despite expert consensus. Overall, it appears that aripiprazole is a safe and effective treatment for tics. Further large scale RCTs assessing the long-term efficacy and safety of aripiprazole in the treatment of tics are warranted, especially in adult populations with TS.

Consensus statements on the clinical usage and characteristics of aripiprazole for Hong Kong

Aripiprazole, a dopamine partial agonist, is a second-generation anti-psychotic that is widely used for the treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. A group of psychiatric experts in Hong Kong developed a set of consensus statements, aiming to facilitate the understanding of clinical properties and usages of aripiprazole among local physicians. Of note, because aripiprazole long-acting injectable has been available locally not long before the establishment of the consensus panel, which limited the discussion on its use in the local context, the consensus statements were focused primarily on oral aripiprazole. To draft the consensus statements, the panellists discussed the published evidence and their clinical experience regarding aripiprazole in a series of meetings based on several areas. At the final meeting, each drafted statement was voted on anonymously by all panellists based on its practicability of recommendation in Hong Kong. A set of consensus statements on the characteristics and clinical use of aripiprazole was established and accepted by the panel. These statements serve to provide a practical reference for physicians in Hong Kong, and possibly other parts of the Asia-Pacific region, on the use of aripiprazole in people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders and other psychotic problems.

Monitoring of metabolic adverse events of second-generation antipsychotics in a naive paediatric population followed in mental health outpatient and inpatient clinical settings: MEMAS prospective study protocol

INTRODUCTION

Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) are widely used in the paediatric population. It is currently established that SGAs may induce metabolic adverse events (AEs) such as weight gain, perturbation of blood lipids or glucose with risk of potential cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The Canadian Alliance for Monitoring Effectiveness and Safety of Antipsychotics in children (CAMESA) has published recommendations for monitoring the metabolic AEs of SGAs. Factors that may be associated with the onset of SGA's metabolic AEs and long-term consequences are less studied in the literature. The objectives of our research are to evaluate some factors that can influence the development of the SGA's metabolic AEs and to study clinical adherence to CAMESA guidelines.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The Monitoring des Effets Métaboliques des Antipsychotiques de Seconde Génération study is a multicenter, prospective, longitudinal observational study with repeated measures of metabolic monitoring over 24 months. Two recruiting centres have been selected for patients under 18 years of age, previously naive of antipsychotics, starting an SGA or who have started an SGA for less than 4 weeks regardless of the diagnosis that motivated the prescription. Assessments are performed for anthropometric measures, blood pressure, blood tests at baseline and 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 12 and 24 months of follow-up.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol was approved by the CHU Sainte-Justine's Research Ethics Board (MP-21-2016-1201) in 2016 and obtained institutional suitability for the 'Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux du Nord-de-l'Île-de-Montréal' Research Center in May 2018. For all participants, written consent will be obtained from parents/caregivers as well as the participant's assent in order to enable their participation in this research project. The results of this research will be published.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrials.gov (number NCT04395326).

Defining tic severity and tic impairment in Tourette Disorder

OBJECTIVE

Treatment guidelines for Tourette's Disorder (TD) are based on patients' degree of tic severity and impairment. However, clear benchmarks for determining tic severity and impairment have not been established. This study examined benchmarks of tic severity and tic impairment using the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) and the Clinical Global Impression of Severity (CGI-S).

METHOD

Individuals with TD or another Tic Disorder (N = 519) recruited across nine sites were administered a diagnostic interview, the YGTSS, and the CGI-S. Correlations and trend analyses contrasted YGTSS scores across CGI-S ratings. A logistic regression model examined predictive benchmarks for tic severity, tic impairment, and global severity. Model classifications were compared against CGI-S ratings, and agreement was examined using kappa.

RESULTS

Spearman correlations between the CGI-S and YGTSS scores ranged from 0.54 to 0.63 (p < 0.001). Greater CGI-S ratings were associated with a linear stepwise increase in YGTSS Total Tic scores, Impairment scores, and Global Severity scores. Despite moderate-to-strong associations (ρ = 0.45-0.56, p < 0.001) between the CGI-S and predictive logistical regression models, only fair agreement was achieved when applying classification benchmarks (κ = 0.21-0.32, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

CGI-S ratings are useful to characterize benchmarks for tic severity, tic impairment, and global severity on the YGTSS. Logistic regression model benchmarks had only fair agreement with the CGI-S and underscore the heterogeneity of TD symptoms. Collectively, findings offer guidance on the delineation of tic severity categorizations to apply evidence-based treatment recommendations.

Treatment use among children with Tourette syndrome living in the United States, 2014

Treatment of Tourette syndrome (TS) can be complicated by changes over time in tic expression, severity, and co-occurring disorders. Using the 2014 National Survey of the Diagnosis and Treatment of ADHD and Tourette Syndrome, this study provides descriptive estimates of the use of behavioral interventions and medication among children living with TS. Parent-reported data on 115 children aged 5-17 years ever diagnosed with TS were analyzed to provide descriptive, unweighted results. Overall, 77.4% of children had current or past use of any TS treatment; 59.1% ever used behavioral interventions and 56.1% had ever taken TS medication. Children with "moderate" or "severe" versus "mild" TS, ≥1 co-occurring disorders, and tics that interfered with functioning were significantly more likely to have used one or more TS treatments. Side effects were reported for 84.4% of children who took TS medication. Most parents of children with current TS (87.2%) were satisfied with the management of their child's TS. However, parents of children with "moderate" or "severe" current TS were significantly more dissatisfied compared to parents of children with "mild" TS. Findings from this study could be used to inform efforts to support children living with TS and their families.

Use of Tic-Suppressing Medication and Other Psychotropic Drugs in Children and Adolescents with Newly Diagnosed Tic Disorders in Denmark

Objective: Only few psychotropic drugs are approved to treat tic disorders. The aim was to describe use of tic-suppressing medication and other psychotropic drugs in children with tics. Methods: Using nationwide registries, we identified children receiving a tic diagnosis in Denmark during 2006-2017 and extracted data on tic-suppressing medication and other psychotropic drugs. Results: Antipsychotics were used by 12%. Use of tic-suppressing medication increased with age and varied according to sex. Over time less children with tics were medicated (from 44% to 38% in the total use of psychotropic drugs) mainly due to decreased use of antipsychotics (from 18% to 6.4%). In recent years, use of aripiprazole exceeded that of risperidone (38% vs. 35%), although risperidone was most often first choice (34%) followed by aripiprazole (22%). Most children stayed on their initial treatment. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder medication (27%) was the most common additional psychotropic drug class used. Regional variations were found in the treatment of tics. Hospital specialists were mainly responsible for treatment. Conclusions: Most children with tics do not use tic-suppressing or other psychotropic drugs. The use of aripiprazole superseded risperidone, however risperidone remains the most common first-choice treatment. Treatment was mainly handled by specialists, which is reassuring given the lack of national guidelines, however, regional variations merit further attention as do the variation in treatment between young girls and boys.

Effectiveness and Safety of a Clonidine Adhesive Patch for Children With Tic Disorders: Study in a Real-World Practice

Background: Real-world evidence includes data from retrospective/prospective observational studies and observational registries, and provides insights beyond those addressed by randomized controlled trials. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of a clonidine adhesive patch (CAP) for children with tic disorder (TD) in a real-world setting (RWS).

Methods: This was an open-label, non-interventional, post-marketing, observational study in a RWS. Children diagnosed with TDs were enrolled from a pediatric neurology clinic in China, and the change in tic symptom severity following 6 weeks pharmacologic treatments was investigated using Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS) during visits at weeks 0, 4, 8, and 12.

Results: Of 150 patients, 76% (114/150) were male (age range, 3.03–14.24 years; mean, 8.11 ± 2.48 years). Patients were divided into three groups: tiapride (n = 94), CAP (n = 14), and CAP + tiapride (n = 42). The mean YGTSS improved 11.02, 15.14, 11.13 points from baseline to posttreatment for tiapride, CAP, and CAP + tiapride, respectively, but variance analysis showed there was no significant difference in YGTSS related to different pharmacologic intervention during subsequent visits at weeks 4, 8, and 12. Repeated measure analysis showed there was no significant difference between different medication types for reducing the YGTSS score (F = 0.553, P = 0.576). No serious adverse events (AEs) occurred, and there was no significant difference in the prevalence of AEs between the three groups.

Conclusion: The CAP is effective and safe for TD management in a RWS, because of the limitation of sample size and the period of follow up, observational studies with longer-term outcomes, and larger sample size are needed.

Interventions for tic disorders: An updated overview of systematic reviews and meta analyses

To conduct an updated overview of systematic reviews (SRs) summarizing the efficacy and safety of various strategies used to treat tic disorders (TDs) in children. We searched the Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, and relevant reference lists for articles published between the search deadline from our last overview and April 2019 and included 16 SRs. The results presented that antipsychotics, a2-adrenergic receptor agonists, and HRT/CBIT still appeared to be the most robust evidence-based options for the treatment of TDs. Compared with our last overview, more robust evidence showed that aripiprazole and acupuncture was effective treatment in treating children TDs, and DBS for medication-refractory and severely affected patients. In addition, physical activity or exercise may be promising treatments, and the clonidine adhesive patch is an effective, safe, and convenient treatment option for TDs. Moreover, methylphenidate, guanfacine, and desipramine appeared to reduce ADHD symptoms in children with tics. However, no research studies have examined HRT/CBIT alone compared with HRT/CBIT in combination with medication. More high-quality clinical trials comparing different interventions for TDs including economic evaluations should be encouraged.

Current pharmacotherapy for tic disorders

Introduction: Though many unanswered questions about the pathophysiology of Tourette Syndrome remain, several pharmacotherapies for tics have been studied, with varying results in terms of efficacy and the strength of evidence.Areas covered: This literature review encompasses pharmacotherapies for tics. The pharmacotherapies discussed in this review include: alpha agonists, antipsychotics, topiramate, botulinum toxin, and dopamine depleters.Expert opinion: Once the presence of tics is confirmed and psychoeducation and support are provided to patients and caregivers, one must examine the degree of tic-related impairment and the presence of psychiatric comorbidities. These factors influence treatment decisions as the presence of comorbidity and related impairment may shift the treatment target. When selecting a medication for tics, the presence of ADHD (the most frequent comorbidity) strengthens the case for choosing an alpha agonist. The case for antipsychotic medications is strongest when tic-related impairment is severe and/or the tics are refractory to more conservative measures. All medications require drug safety monitoring procedures and reevaluation over time.

Tics and Tourette's syndrome

Tics and Tourette's syndrome are common hyperkinetic movement disorders seen mostly in the pediatric age group. Tics are defined as sudden, rapid, recurrent, nonrhythmic motor movements or vocalization, generally preceded by urge. Tourette's syndrome is defined as the presence of both motor and phonic tics for more than 1 year in patients with onset less than 18 years old. Most of these hyperkinetic movement disorders improve in adulthood. This review emphasizes the clinical pearls in the diagnosis and distinguishing it from other movement disorders. The treatment ranges from behavioral therapies, medical management, and also surgical treatment such as deep brain stimulation that is limited to refractory patients.

Medical and Surgical Treatments of Tourette Syndrome

Tourette syndrome is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder with a wide phenotypic spectrum, including tics and psychiatric comorbidities, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder and attention-deficit disorder. Often considered a neurodevelopmental disorder, it is most prevalent during childhood and treatment strategies can vary according to degree of severity and patient-specific symptom manifestations. This review focuses on established and emerging management options for tics, including behavioral interventions and nonpharmacologic therapies, medication management, and promising surgical approaches.

[Tourette syndrome: Research challenges to improve clinical practice]

Tourette syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder which is characterized by the presence of motor and phonic tics. These tics are generally more prevalent in childhood. Tics typically reach their maximum severity before puberty, around age 10 to 12. In most patients, tic severity usually decreases during late adolescence and adulthood. However, this is not true for all individuals. To date, the developmental trajectory leading to the persistence of tics into adulthood is still poorly understood. There are very few markers that can predict the evolution of tic symptoms from childhood to adulthood. Yet, while we cannot cure Tourette syndrome, it is possible to reduce tic severity with various treatments. The most common treatments are pharmacotherapy and behavioral and cognitive-behavioral therapy. However, there appears to be a limit to the proportion of tics that can be treated, since most treatments offer an average reduction in tics of no more than 50%. Thus, at first, this article reviews recent advances in treatment and symptom progression. Next, we propose some lines of research to improve the management and treatment of people with Tourette syndrome.

Current Status, Diagnosis, and Treatment Recommendation for Tic Disorders in China

Tic disorders (TD) are a group neuropsychiatric disorders with childhood onset characterized by tics, i.e. repetitive, sudden, and involuntary movements or vocalizations; and Tourette syndrome (TS) is the most severe form of TD. Their clinical manifestations are diverse; and are often associated with various psychopathological and/or behavioral comorbidities, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders. Individual severity and response to treatment are highly variable, and there are some refractory cases, which are less responsive to conventional TD treatment. TD/TS are also common in the Chinese pediatric population. To help improve the understanding of TD for pediatricians and other health professionals, and to improve its diagnosis and treatment in China, the Chinese Child Neurology Society (CCNS) has developed an Expert Consensus on Diagnosis and Treatment of TD in China, which is based on our clinical experience and the availability therapeutic avenues. It is focused on clinical diagnosis and evaluation of TD and its comorbidities, psychological and educational intervention, nonpharmacological therapy, pharmacological treatment, including traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture, as well as prognosis in children with TD in China. A summary of the current status of TD and up-to-date diagnosis and treatment recommendations for TD in China is presented here.

Benefits and harms of medical cannabis: a scoping review of systematic reviews

BACKGROUND

There has been increased interest in the role of cannabis for treating medical conditions. The availability of different cannabis-based products can make the side effects of exposure unpredictable. We sought to conduct a scoping review of systematic reviews assessing benefits and harms of cannabis-based medicines for any condition.

METHODS

A protocol was followed throughout the conduct of this scoping review. A protocol-guided scoping review conduct. Searches of bibliographic databases (e.g., MEDLINE®, Embase, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Library) and gray literature were performed. Two people selected and charted data from systematic reviews. Categorizations emerged during data synthesis. The reporting of results from systematic reviews was performed at a high level appropriate for a scoping review.

RESULTS

After screening 1975 citations, 72 systematic reviews were included. The reviews covered many conditions, the most common being pain management. Several reviews focused on management of pain as a symptom of conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), injury, and cancer. After pain, the most common symptoms treated were spasticity in MS, movement disturbances, nausea/vomiting, and mental health symptoms. An assessment of review findings lends to the understanding that, although in a small number of reviews results showed a benefit for reducing pain, the analysis approach and reporting in other reviews was sub-optimal, making it difficult to know how consistent findings are when considering pain in general. Adverse effects were reported in most reviews comparing cannabis with placebo (49/59, 83%) and in 20/24 (83%) of the reviews comparing cannabis to active drugs. Minor adverse effects (e.g., drowsiness, dizziness) were common and reported in over half of the reviews. Serious harms were not as common, but were reported in 21/59 (36%) reviews that reported on adverse effects. Overall, safety data was generally reported study-by-study, with few reviews synthesizing data. Only one review was rated as high quality, while the remaining were rated of moderate (n = 36) or low/critically low (n = 35) quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from the included reviews were mixed, with most reporting an inability to draw conclusions due to inconsistent findings and a lack of rigorous evidence. Mild harms were frequently reported, and it is possible the harms of cannabis-based medicines may outweigh benefits.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

The protocol for this scoping review was posted in the Open Access (https://ruor.uottawa.ca/handle/10393/37247).

Treatment options for tic disorders

Introduction: Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by the presence of multiple motor and, at least one, phonic tics, for more than one year, beginning before 18 years of age; its treatment is often a challenge for the clinicianAreas covered: GTS treatment requires a multidisciplinary management to treat each patient's symptom. Although individuals with GTS often have comorbid psychiatric disorders, the focus of this review will only be on the management of tics.Expert opinion: The authors summarized the steps that clinicians should follow treating GTS patient; the impact of the tics on a patients' life should be the first step; different patients could present different levels of tolerance to the symptoms. Second, comorbidities should be considered before starting a treatment for tic. Finally, clinicians must focus the attention of the patient and family, on the length of the treatment and the duration of time after which the effects of the drug will occur. Before the treatment, the potential side effects must be mentioned to the parents, and the choice of treatment must be made in the light of the patient's tolerance to these.

Population-Based Epidemiology of Pediatric Patients with Treated Tic Disorders from Real-World Evidence in Korea

Objectives: Although tic disorder (TD) is a common mental disorder in children and adolescents, epidemiological data based on real-world evidence (RWE) are insufficient. Using RWE, this study sought to examine the prevalence of treated TD, use of medical utilization, and use of prescription drugs among patients with TD with respect to TD type and comorbid psychiatric illness. Methods: We performed a retrospective cross-sectional study. Using the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service Pediatric Patient Sample data from 2009 to 2016, we analyzed 20,599 patients with TD (Korean Standard Classification of Diseases-6/7 code: F95.x) aged 2-19 years. Results: The annual average TD prevalence was 2.6/1000 population (95% confidence interval, 2.3-2.8/1000). Between 2009 and 2016, a slight increase in TD prevalence was observed from 1.9 to 2.9/1000 population. The TD prevalence rate in male patients was four times higher than that in female patients. Differences were observed in health care utilization and drug prescription types between patients with Tourette syndrome and chronic or transient TD. In addition, more than half of patients with TD had comorbid psychiatric disorders, and one-third of patients with TD had attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Patients with TD without comorbidities were frequently prescribed aripiprazole, while patients with TD and comorbid ADHD were frequently prescribed atomoxetine, methylphenidate, risperidone, and aripiprazole. Conclusion: This study described the epidemiological characteristics of TD based on recent RWE from Korea, and its findings can help establish future TD evidence-based clinical guidelines and related policies.

Effects of 24 CYP2D6 variants found in Chinese population on the metabolism of clonidine in vitro

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Clonidine has been clinically used to treat Tourette's syndrome for decades. There was research finding that clonidine possessed the best risk-benefit ratio, especially for patients associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. CYP2D6 is a significant member of Cytochrome P450 enzymes. The genetic polymorphisms of CYP2D6 greatly affect the clinical effects of drugs even lead to side effects and medical malpractice. Our goal is to research the effect of CYP2D6 genetic polymorphism on the metabolism of clonidine and evaluate the functions of 22 CYP2D6 allelic variants in vitro, which were discovered in Chinese Han population recently.

METHODS

This study was carried out through a mature incubation system. The wild-type CYP2D6*1 and 24 variants (CYP2D6*2, CYP2D6*10 and 22 novel CYP2D6 variants) were expressed in insect cells, and the catalytic activity of all the variants were assessed by substrate clonidine. Metabolite 4-OH clonidine was accurately detected via ultra-performance liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to evaluate the effect of CYP2D6 genetic polymorphism on the clonidine.

RESULT

Among the 22 novel CYP2D6 variants, the intrinsic clearance (Vmax/Km) of 21 variants were significantly decreased (from 1.53% to 83.25%) compared to the wild-type. In particular, the following seven variants (CYP2D6* 2, CYP2D6* 10, CYP2D6* 93, CYP2D6* 95, E215K, V327 M and R497C) attract more attention, of which the intrinsic clearance decreased more than 70% compared to the wild-type. Because the variants with significantly reduced intrinsic clearance are more likely to cause adverse reactions than the variants with increased or little changed intrinsic clearance. In addition, the related pharmacokinetic parameters of CYP2D6*92 and CYP2D6*96 could not be acquired for the defect of CYP2D6 nucleotide.

CONCLUSION

We comprehensively evaluated the effect of 22 novel CYP2D6 variants on the metabolism of clonidine for the first time and hoped corresponding data provide a reference for metabolism of clonidine for further studies in vivo, and extend our understanding of the clinical drug toxicity or ineffectiveness by CYP2D6 genetic polymorphism.

Evidence-based treatment of Tourette's disorder and chronic tic disorders

Introduction: Chronic Tic Disorders and Tourette's Disorder (collectively referred to as TD) are characterized by sudden, rapid, and repetitive motor movements or vocalizations called tics. Children, adolescents, and adults with TD often experience co-occurring psychiatric symptoms and impairments in multiple domains. As a result of tics and other symptoms, patients with TD can develop negative self-views, require considerable accommodations, and experience a poor quality of life. Therefore, the efficient and effective management of TD bears considerable importance. Areas covered: This expert review evaluated the empirical support for behavioral and pharmacological interventions based on the results of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Behavioral interventions evaluated include habit reversal training (HRT), comprehensive behavioral intervention for tics (CBIT), and exposure response prevention (ERP). Reviewed pharmacological interventions included alpha-2 agonists, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants. Expert opinion: This review identified several efficacious behavioral and pharmacological interventions for TD. However, several gaps in the management of TD include: (1) the access/availability of behavioral interventions, (2) novel and more efficacious treatment approaches, and (3) the development of more comprehensive interventions to manage TD. In order to advance the treatment of TD, additional research is necessary to efficiently, effectively, and comprehensively develop and evaluate new treatments for patients with TD.

Prescriptions for Alpha Agonists and Antipsychotics in Children and Youth with Tic Disorders: A Pharmacoepidemiologic Study

Background

Trends in the use of antipsychotics and alpha agonists for the treatment of tic disorders in Canadian children, and how closely these trends align with evidence-based guidelines on the pharmacotherapy of tic disorders, have not been explored.

Methods

IQVIA's Canadian Disease and Therapeutic Index, a survey-based data set, was used to identify prescription patterns by physicians. Respondents recorded all patient visits during a 48-hour period in each quarter of the year, including patient age, gender, drug recommendation and therapeutic indication. Recommendations for alpha agonists and antipsychotics from 2012 to 2016 were analysed for children and adolescents with tic disorders.

Results

Risperidone and clonidine were the most commonly recommended medications for tic disorders over the study period, with 36,868 and 35,500 recommendations in 2016, respectively. Recommendations for clonidine increased over the study period, whereas those for risperidone decreased. Guanfacine (approved in Canada in 2013) was used less frequently than clonidine. Clonidine was more frequently recommended than antipsychotics in children younger than 6, in whom antipsychotic recommendations were uncommon. Aripiprazole was the second most commonly recommended antipsychotic for tic disorders, with 22,892 recommendations in 2016. Of the first-generation antipsychotics, pimozide was most commonly recommended (11,334 recommendations in 2016); haloperidol was infrequently recommended.

Discussion

The trends observed are in line with guideline recommendations reflected in the decreasing use of risperidone, and the growing use of clonidine and guanfacine. The growing use of aripiprazole is likely due to emerging evidence from clinical trials supporting its efficacy for tics. Recommendations for pimozide and haloperidol were limited, likely due to the greater adverse effects associated with these medications.

Effect of diet, exercise and sleep on tic severity: a scoping review protocol

INTRODUCTION

Tourette syndrome is a common childhood-onset neuropsychiatric disorder, with tics that wax and wane in frequency and severity over time. The purpose of the proposed scoping review is to map the types of evidence available pertaining to the effect of diet, sleep and exercise on tic severity and identify key concepts and gaps in research.

METHODS

Our scoping review will use the six-step framework recommended by Arksey and O'Malley, with enhancements from Levac et al and Joanna Briggs Institute. We will attempt to identify all the relevant literature regardless of study design. We will search six electronic databases, the reference lists of all selected studies and the grey literature for studies examining an association between dietary factors, sleep or physical exercise and tics, or studies of interventions targeting diet, sleep or exercise to reduce tics. Our analysis plan includes description of the reported associations among dietary factors, sleep and physical exercise and tics, the effects of interventions, the research methodologies and how outcomes are measured.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

An approval from a recognised committee is not required to conduct the proposed review, as the study entails secondary analysis of the literature available publicly. For dissemination of the study, the results will be submitted for publication to peer-reviewed scientific journals and presented at relevant public forums and conferences.

Expert consensus on pharmacotherapy for tic disorders in Japan

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to clarify the current status of pharmacotherapy for tic disorders and comorbidities in Japan. We used a systematic survey to collate the consensus of Japanese experts and compare it with the recent international evidence.

METHODS

We devised a questionnaire on pharmacotherapy for tics and comorbidities and sent it to Japanese experts on tic disorders. Based on the response to the first survey, we revised the questionnaire and conducted a second survey to determine the consensus among the experts on a 4-point Likert scale by the Delphi method.

RESULTS

The first survey revealed variability in preferred medications and dosages among the experts in Japan. However, we were able to build a general consensus on pharmacotherapy for tic disorders and comorbidities based on the second survey. Aripiprazole and risperidone were the first- and second-line medication for tic disorders, respectively. Agonists of α-₂ adrenergic receptors were seldom prescribed. Fluvoxamine was the first-line medication for comorbid obsessive-compulsive disorder, and atomoxetine for comorbid attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will help Japanese physicians choose medications for tic disorders more judiciously and will improve the quality of tic pharmacotherapy in Japan.

Long-Term Follow-up of Patients with Tourette's Syndrome

Background

Tourette's Syndrome (TS) is a childhood-onset movement disorder marked by the chronic presence of motor and vocal tics. Research shows that tics associated with TS tend to fade in severity for some (but not all) affected youth, though psychiatric comorbidities that commonly accompany TS may be more persistent. The long-term outcomes of individuals with TS have not been well characterized.

Objective

To characterize long-term clinical outcomes of individuals with TS.

Method

We conducted a long-term (25-32 years) follow-up study of 45 patients with TS who presented to the Tourette's and Tic Disorders Clinic within the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California San Francisco Medical Center, which was staffed by the first author (Thomas L. Lowe, MD [T.L.L.]), between 1983 and 1990. Baseline data were obtained via chart review, and follow-up data were obtained by self-report surveys.

Results

Participants generally reported good psychosocial functioning, attainment of significant social milestones (academic attainment, gainful employment, marriage), and high subjective quality of life. The vast majority of participants (82%) reported improvement in their tics over time, though a significant minority continued to experience at least mild tic-related impairment (26%-40%, depending on metric). Lifetime rates of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder, were greater than in the general US population. Robust predictors of follow-up outcomes were not found.

Conclusions

These findings reflect a positive overall long-term prognosis for individuals with TS. Providing information about this prognosis at the time of diagnosis may decrease distress in affected individuals and their families. Future studies using planned longitudinal designs that address potential confounds of survey nonresponse are needed to detail long-term outcomes of individuals with TS more precisely.

Pharmacoepidemiology of Tourette and Chronic Tic Disorders in Sweden 2005-2013

BACKGROUND

Monitoring "real world" dispensation patterns over time is important to build the evidence base for safe and efficient use of psychotropic drugs. In this study, we aimed to comprehensively examine the patterns of psychotropic drug dispensations in patients with Tourette and chronic tic disorders (TD/CTD) in Sweden between 2005 and 2013.

METHODS

A cohort of 6979 TD/CTD patients was identified through the Swedish National Patient Register. Their drug dispensation patterns, collected in the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register, were examined between July 1, 2005 and December 31, 2013. Frequencies of drug dispensations were further stratified by gender and comorbidities. Additionally, differences in the patterns of dispensation in children and adolescents versus adults in the last year of the follow-up were examined, as well as the time trends of the dispensations over the 8-year study period.

RESULTS

A total of 5299 (75.9%) TD/CTD patients were dispensed at least one drug during the study period. The most frequently dispensed medications were attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) drugs (53.8%), antidepressants (50.7%), hypnotics/sedatives (41.7%), and antipsychotics (41.5%). Most of the medicated patients (72.1%) were dispensed more than one drug during the study period. Patterns of dispensation varied according to patient's gender, associated comorbidities, and age group. Dispensation of quetiapine and aripiprazole, antiadrenergics, ADHD drugs, antiepileptics, and hypnotics/sedatives and anxiolytics (particularly the nonbenzodiazepine types) significantly increased over time, whereas dispensation of antidepressants, typical antipsychotics, and benzodiazepine-based anxiolytics significantly decreased over the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term monitoring of these drug dispensation patterns and the study of both their beneficial and adverse effects is warranted.

TARC: Turkish aripiprazole consensus report- Aripiprazole use and switching from other antipsychotics to aripiprazole- consensus recommendations by a Turkish multidisciplinary panel

In this review, we have attempted to share our 10 years' clinical experience with aripiprazole use and switching from other antipsychotics to aripiprazole. There are various reasons for switching, including a partial or complete lack of efficacy, adverse side effects, and partial or noncompliance with medication. Aripiprazole has some unique receptor-binding qualities that provides some advantages over other antipsychotics in certain clinical situations. We have covered potential clinical scenarios for aripiprazole use as a single agent and switching from other agents in inpatient and outpatient settings. Patients switched from other antipsychotics to aripiprazole have been shown to benefit from significant improvements in clinical response and tolerability. This review examines the strategies for switching patients from antipsychotic drugs to aripiprazole.

Dopaminergic Disturbances in Tourette Syndrome: An Integrative Account

Tourette syndrome (TS) is thought to involve dopaminergic disturbances, but the nature of those disturbances remains controversial. Existing hypotheses suggest that TS involves 1) supersensitive dopamine receptors, 2) overactive dopamine transporters that cause low tonic but high phasic dopamine, 3) presynaptic dysfunction in dopamine neurons, or 4) dopaminergic hyperinnervation. We review evidence that contradicts the first two hypotheses; we also note that the last two hypotheses have traditionally been considered too narrowly, explaining only small subsets of findings. We review all studies that have used positron emission tomography and single-photon emission computerized tomography to investigate the dopaminergic system in TS. The seemingly diverse findings from those studies have typically been interpreted as pointing to distinct mechanisms, as evidenced by the various hypotheses concerning the nature of dopaminergic disturbances in TS. We show, however, that the hyperinnervation hypothesis provides a simple, parsimonious explanation for all such seemingly diverse findings. Dopaminergic hyperinnervation likely causes increased tonic and phasic dopamine. We have previously shown, using a computational model of the role of dopamine in basal ganglia, that increased tonic dopamine and increased phasic dopamine likely increase the propensities to express and learn tics, respectively. There is therefore a plausible mechanistic link between dopaminergic hyperinnervation and TS via increased tonic and phasic dopamine. To further bolster this argument, we review evidence showing that all medications that are effective for TS reduce signaling by tonic dopamine, phasic dopamine, or both.

Pharmacotherapies to tics: a systematic review

The efficacy of all pharmacotherapies for patients suffering from tics were unclear. Literatures were searched from Medline, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and four Chinese databases. The primary efficacy outcome scale was defined as the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale (YGTSS). Overall estimates of pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for each outcome measure. A total of 53 trials were included. Meta-analysis suggested that alpha-2 adrenergic agonist agents and atypical antipsychotic agents were effective in improving tics, which included the maximum number of trials. Typical antipsychotic agents were associated with severer side-effects than alpha-2 adrenergic agonist agents. Besides, Traditional Chinese Medicine showed positive effects in YGTSS (NingDong Granule: WMD=-7.100, 95% CI, -10.430- -3.770; 5-Ling Granule: WMD=-11.300, 95% CI, -14.208- -8.392), while glutamate modulators (D-serine, N-Acetylcysteine and riluzole) might not be working. In summary, alpha-2 adrenergic agonist agents were associated with the optimal weigh between efficacy and safety. However, the significant factor of limited trials and sample sizes discounted these findings. Further better studies are necessary to ascertain them.