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Yao J, Wang Z, Song W, Zhang Y. Targeting NLRP3 inflammasome for neurodegenerative disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4512-4527. [PMID: 37670126 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02239-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is a key pathological feature in neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). The nucleotide-binding domain leucine-rich repeat-containing proteins (NLRs) belong to the pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) family that sense stress signals, which play an important role in inflammation. As a member of NLRs, the NACHT, LRR and PYD domains-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) is predominantly expressed in microglia, the principal innate immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS). Microglia release proinflammatory cytokines to cause pyroptosis through activating NLRP3 inflammasome. The active NLRP3 inflammasome is involved in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). Recent studies also indicate the key role of neuronal NLRP3 in the pathogenesis of neurological disorders. In this article, we reviewed the mechanisms of NLRP3 expression and activation and discussed the role of active NLRP3 inflammasome in the pathogenesis of NDs, particularly focusing on AD. The studies suggest that targeting NLRP3 inflammasome could be a novel approach for the disease modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yao
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100053, Beijing, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100053, Beijing, China
| | - Weihong Song
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100053, Beijing, China.
- Institute of Aging, Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, School of Mental Health and The Affiliated Kangning Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yun Zhang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disease, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, 100053, Beijing, China.
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Fan P, Zeng L, Ding Y, Kofler J, Silverstein J, Krivinko J, Sweet RA, Wang L. Combination of antidepressants and antipsychotics as a novel treatment option for psychosis in Alzheimer's disease. CPT Pharmacometrics Syst Pharmacol 2023; 12:1119-1131. [PMID: 37128639 PMCID: PMC10431054 DOI: 10.1002/psp4.12979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychotic symptoms are reported as one of the most common complications of Alzheimer's disease (AD), in whom they are associated with more rapid deterioration and increased mortality. Empiric treatments, namely first and second-generation antipsychotics, confer modest efficacy in patients with AD and with psychosis (AD+P) and themselves increase mortality. Recent studies suggested the use and beneficial effects of antidepressants among patients with AD+P. This motivates our rationale for exploring their potential as a novel combination therapy option among these patients. We included electronic medical records of 10,260 patients with AD in our study. Survival analysis was performed to assess the effects of the combination of antipsychotics and antidepressants on the mortality of these patients. A protein-protein interaction network representing AD+P was built, and network analysis methods were used to quantify the efficacy of these drugs on AD+P. A combined score was developed to measure the potential synergetic effect against AD+P. Our survival analyses showed that the co-administration of antidepressants with antipsychotics have a significant beneficial effect in reducing mortality. Our network analysis showed that the targets of antipsychotics and antidepressants are well-separated, and antipsychotics and antidepressants have similar Signed Jaccard Index (SJI) scores to AD+P. Eight drug pairs, including some popular recommendations like aripiprazole/sertraline, showed higher than average scores which suggest their potential in treating AD+P via strong synergetic effects. Our proposed combinations of antipsychotic and antidepressant therapy showed a strong superiority over current antipsychotics treatment for AD+P. The observed beneficial effects can be further strengthened by optimizing drug-pair selection based on our systems pharmacology analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peihao Fan
- Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences/School of PharmacyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Lang Zeng
- Graduate School of Public HealthUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Ying Ding
- Graduate School of Public HealthUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Julia Kofler
- Division of Neuropathology, Department of PathologyUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical CenterPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Jonathan Silverstein
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, School of MedicineUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Joshua Krivinko
- Department of Psychiatry, School of MedicineUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Robert A. Sweet
- Department of Psychiatry, School of MedicineUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Alzheimer Disease Research CenterUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical CenterPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Lirong Wang
- Computational Chemical Genomics Screening Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences/School of PharmacyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
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Bang D, Lim S, Lee S, Kim S. Biomedical knowledge graph learning for drug repurposing by extending guilt-by-association to multiple layers. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3570. [PMID: 37322032 PMCID: PMC10272215 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39301-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Computational drug repurposing aims to identify new indications for existing drugs by utilizing high-throughput data, often in the form of biomedical knowledge graphs. However, learning on biomedical knowledge graphs can be challenging due to the dominance of genes and a small number of drug and disease entities, resulting in less effective representations. To overcome this challenge, we propose a "semantic multi-layer guilt-by-association" approach that leverages the principle of guilt-by-association - "similar genes share similar functions", at the drug-gene-disease level. Using this approach, our model DREAMwalk: Drug Repurposing through Exploring Associations using Multi-layer random walk uses our semantic information-guided random walk to generate drug and disease-populated node sequences, allowing for effective mapping of both drugs and diseases in a unified embedding space. Compared to state-of-the-art link prediction models, our approach improves drug-disease association prediction accuracy by up to 16.8%. Moreover, exploration of the embedding space reveals a well-aligned harmony between biological and semantic contexts. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach through repurposing case studies for breast carcinoma and Alzheimer's disease, highlighting the potential of multi-layer guilt-by-association perspective for drug repurposing on biomedical knowledge graphs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmin Bang
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioinformatics, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
- AIGENDRUG Co., Ltd., Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangsoo Lim
- School of Artificial Intelligence Convergence, Dongguk University, Seoul, 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangseon Lee
- Institute of Computer Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Kim
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioinformatics, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
- AIGENDRUG Co., Ltd., Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
- Interdisciplinary Program in Artificial Intelligence, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
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Chotiyanonta JS, Onda K, Nowrangi MA, Li X, Xu X, Adams R, Lyketsos CG, Zandi P, Oishi K. Translating clinical notes into quantitative measures-a real-world observation on the response to cholinesterase inhibitors or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors prescribed to outpatients with dementia using electronic medical records. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1177026. [PMID: 37234714 PMCID: PMC10206004 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1177026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Cholinesterase inhibitors (CEIs) are prescribed for dementia to maintain or improve memory. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are also prescribed to manage psychiatric symptoms seen in dementia. What proportion of outpatients actually responds to these drugs is still unclear. Our objective was to investigate the responder rates of these medications in an outpatient setting using the electronic medical record (EMR). Methods: We used the Johns Hopkins EMR system to identify patients with dementia who were prescribed a CEI or SSRI for the first time between 2010 and 2021. Treatment effects were assessed through routinely documented clinical notes and free-text entries in which healthcare providers record clinical findings and impressions of patients. Responses were scored using a three-point Likert scale named the NOte-based evaluation method for Treatment Efficacy (NOTE) in addition to the Clinician's Interview-Based Impression of Change Plus caregiver input (CIBIC-plus), a seven-point Likert scale used in clinical trials. To validate NOTE, the relationships between NOTE and CIBIC-plus and between NOTE and change in MMSE (Mini-Mental State Examination) before and after medication were examined. Inter-rater reliability was evaluated using Krippendorff's alpha. The responder rates were calculated. Results: NOTE showed excellent inter-rater reliability and correlated well with CIBIC-plus and changes in MMSEs. Out of 115 CEI cases, 27.0% reported improvement and 34.8% reported stable symptoms in cognition; out of 225 SSRI cases, 69.3% reported an improvement in neuropsychiatric symptoms. Conclusion: NOTE showed high validity in measuring the pharmacotherapy effects based on unstructured clinical entries. Although our real-world observation included various types of dementia, the results were remarkably similar to what was reported in controlled clinical trials of Alzheimer's disease and its related neuropsychiatric symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill S. Chotiyanonta
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kengo Onda
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Milap A. Nowrangi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Richman Family Precision Medicine Center of Excellence in Alzheimer’s Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Xin Xu
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Roy Adams
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Richman Family Precision Medicine Center of Excellence in Alzheimer’s Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Constantine G. Lyketsos
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Richman Family Precision Medicine Center of Excellence in Alzheimer’s Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Peter Zandi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Richman Family Precision Medicine Center of Excellence in Alzheimer’s Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Kenichi Oishi
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
- Richman Family Precision Medicine Center of Excellence in Alzheimer’s Disease, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Fan P, Zeng L, Ding Y, Kofler J, Silverstein J, Krivinko J, Sweet RA, Wang L. Combination of Antidepressants and Antipsychotics as A Novel Treatment Option for Psychosis in Alzheimer's Disease. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.01.24.23284970. [PMID: 36747620 PMCID: PMC9901071 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.24.23284970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Background Psychotic symptoms are reported as one of the most common complications of Alzheimer's disease (AD), affecting approximately half of AD patients, in whom they are associated with more rapid deterioration and increased mortality. Empiric treatments, namely first and second-generation antipsychotics, confer modest efficacy in AD patients with psychosis (AD+P) and themselves increase mortality. A recent genome-wide meta-analysis and early clinical trials suggest the use and beneficial effects of antidepressants among AD+P patients. This motivates our rationale for exploring their potential as a novel combination therapy option amongst these patients. Methods We included University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) electronic medical records (EMRs) of 10,260 AD patients from January 2004 and October 2019 in our study. Survival analysis was performed to assess the effects of the combination of antipsychotics and antidepressants on the mortality of these patients. To provide more valuable insights on the hidden mechanisms of the combinatorial therapy, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network representing AD+P was built, and network analysis methods were used to quantify the efficacy of these drugs on AD+P. An indicator score combining the measurements on the separation between drugs and the proximity between the drugs and AD+P was used to measure the effect of an antipsychotic-antidepressant drug pair against AD+P. Results Our survival analyses replicated that antipsychotic usage is strongly associated with increased mortality in AD patients while the co-administration of antidepressants with antipsychotics showed a significant beneficial effect in reducing mortality. Our network analysis showed that the targets of antipsychotics and antidepressants are well-separated, and antipsychotics and antidepressants have similar proximity scores to AD+P. Eight drug pairs, including some popular recommendations like Aripiprazole/Sertraline and other pairs not reported previously like Iloperidone/Maprotiline showed higher than average indicator scores which suggest their potential in treating AD+P via strong synergetic effects as seen in our study. Conclusion Our proposed combinations of antipsychotics and antidepressants therapy showed a strong superiority over current antipsychotics treatment for AD+P. The observed beneficial effects can be further strengthened by optimizing drug-pair selection based on our systems pharmacology analysis.
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Chen K, Li H, Yang L, Jiang Y, Wang Q, Zhang J, He J. Comparative efficacy and safety of antidepressant therapy for the agitation of dementia: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1103039. [PMID: 36936502 PMCID: PMC10020338 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1103039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Dementia is a clinical syndrome commonly seen in the elderly individuals. With the prevalence of dementia, the incidence of neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia patients is increasing annually. Agitation, as one of the neuropsychiatric symptoms, has a serious impact on the quality of life of patients with dementia. Several antidepressant drugs have been shown to be effective for treating agitated behavior symptoms in patients with dementia, but there are no direct comparisons among those drugs. Therefore, we carried out a network meta-analysis (NMA) to examine the efficacy and safety of those antidepressant drugs. Methods We searched eight databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, Wanfang Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, VIP Database and China biomedical literature service) from their inception to 6 November 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting the efficacy and safety of antidepressant drugs in treating agitated behavior symptoms in patients with dementia were included in our analysis. The quality assessment was carried out by two researchers individually and the analysis was based on the frequency method. Results Twelve articles with 1,146 participants were included in our analysis. Based on the outcome of the agitation score, treatment with citalopram (standardized mean difference, SMD = -0.44, 95% confidence interval, 95% CI = -0.72 to -0.16) showed significant benefits over the placebo group. Treatment with trazodone (odds ratio, OR = 4.58, 95% CI = 1.12-18.69) was associated with a higher risk of total adverse events compared with a placebo treatment. Conclusion Among the antidepressant drugs included in this study, treatment with citalopram was probably the only optimal intervention, when considering the improvement from baseline to the end of the intervention, and there was not a statistically significant difference in safety when compared with a placebo treatment. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/#recordDetails, identifier: PROSPERO, CRD42022320932.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaili Chen
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Haiqi Li
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Le Yang
- Department of Endocrinology, Jilin Province People's Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Yan Jiang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Qiaoli Wang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jinting He
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Jinting He
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7
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Schrag A, Carroll C, Duncan G, Molloy S, Grover L, Hunter R, Brown R, Freemantle N, Whipps J, Serfaty MA, Lewis G. Antidepressants Trial in Parkinson's Disease (ADepT-PD): protocol for a randomised placebo-controlled trial on the effectiveness of escitalopram and nortriptyline on depressive symptoms in Parkinson's disease. BMC Neurol 2022; 22:474. [PMID: 36510237 PMCID: PMC9743717 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-022-02988-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depressive symptoms are common in patients with Parkinson's disease and depression is a significant predictor of functional impairment, reduced quality of life and general well-being in Parkinson's disease. Despite the high prevalence of depression, evidence on the effectiveness and tolerability of antidepressants in this population is limited. The primary aim of this trial is to establish the clinical and cost effectiveness of escitalopram and nortriptyline for the treatment of depression in Parkinson's disease. METHODS This is a multi-centre, double-blind, randomised placebo-controlled trial in 408 people with Parkinson's disease with subsyndromal depression, major depressive disorder or persistent depressive disorder and a Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) score of 14 or above. Participants will be randomised into one of three groups, receiving either escitalopram, nortriptyline or placebo for 12 months. Trial participation is face-to-face, hybrid or remote. The primary outcome measure is the BDI-II score following 8 weeks of treatment. Secondary outcomes will be collected at baseline, 8, 26 and 52 weeks and following withdrawal, including severity of anxiety and depression scores as well as Parkinson's disease motor severity, and ratings of non-motor symptoms, cognitive function, health-related quality of life, levodopa-equivalence dose, changes in medication, overall clinical effectiveness, capability, health and social care resource use, carer health-related quality of life, adverse effects and number of dropouts. DISCUSSION This trial aims to determine the effectiveness of escitalopram and nortriptyline for reducing depressive symptoms in Parkinson's disease over 8 weeks, to provide information on the effect of these medications on anxiety and other non-motor symptoms in PD and on impact on patients and caregivers, and to examine their effect on change in motor severity. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03652870 Date of registration - 29th August 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Schrag
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK ,grid.437485.90000 0001 0439 3380Department of Neurology, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - C Carroll
- grid.11201.330000 0001 2219 0747Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - G Duncan
- grid.39489.3f0000 0001 0388 0742NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - S Molloy
- grid.417895.60000 0001 0693 2181Department of Neurosciences, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - L Grover
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - R Hunter
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - R Brown
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - N Freemantle
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Comprehensive Clinical Trials Unit, University College London, London, UK
| | - J Whipps
- PPI Representative, Plymouth, UK
| | - M. A Serfaty
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Division of Psychiatry, UCL, London, UK ,Priory Hospital North London, London, UK
| | - G Lewis
- grid.83440.3b0000000121901201Division of Psychiatry, UCL, London, UK
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Qin M, Wu J, Zhou Q, Liang Z, Su Y. Global cognitive effects of second-generation antidepressants in patients with Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 155:371-379. [PMID: 36182766 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.09.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The second-generation antidepressants (SGAs) are used widely in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) for the treatment of mood disorder, sleep disturbance and psychiatric symptoms. Several evidences from AD mice confirmed that antidepressants could delaying cognitive decline. However, the conclusions varied in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) based on patients. This meta-analysis summarizes the cognitive impact of SGAs on AD patients with different neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS). Results show there is no effect on cognition and depression between SGAs treatment and controls, and this remains in subgroups analyses of duration of medication (<12 weeks or ≥12 weeks), drug classes (SSRIs or non-SSRIs), combination with anti-dementia medication, various NPS, and degree of AD. The available evidence provides no support for the efficacy of SGAs for cognition and depression of AD patients. The implications of the findings and their mechanism relevance are also discussed in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Qin
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
| | - Jing Wu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Qidong Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Zhihou Liang
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ying Su
- Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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The synapse as a treatment avenue for Alzheimer's Disease. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:2940-2949. [PMID: 35444256 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01565-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder with devastating symptoms, including memory impairments and cognitive deficits. Hallmarks of AD pathology are amyloid-beta (Aβ) deposition forming neuritic plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). For many years, AD drug development has mainly focused on directly targeting the Aβ aggregation or the formation of tau tangles, but this disease has no cure so far. Other common characteristics of AD are synaptic abnormalities and dysfunctions such as synaptic damage, synaptic loss, and structural changes in the synapse. Those anomalies happen in the early stages of the disease before behavioural symptoms have occurred. Therefore, better understanding the mechanisms underlying the synaptic dysfunction found in AD and targeting the synapse, especially using early treatment windows, can lead to finding novel and more effective treatments that could improve the lives of AD patients. Researchers have recently started developing different disease-modifying treatments targeting the synapse to rescue and prevent synaptic dysfunction in AD. The main objectives of these new strategies are to halt synaptic loss, strengthen synaptic connections, and improve synaptic density, potentially leading to the rescue or prevention of cognitive impairments. This article aims to address the mechanisms of synaptic degeneration in AD and discuss current strategies that focus on the synapse for AD therapy. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that significantly impairs memory and causes cognitive and behavioural deficits. Scientists worldwide have tried to find a treatment that can reverse or rescue AD symptoms, but there is no cure so far. One prominent characteristic of AD is the brain atrophy caused by significant synaptic loss and overall neuronal damage, which starts at the early stages of the disease before other AD hallmarks such as neuritic plaques and NFTs. The present review addresses the underlying mechanisms behind synaptic loss and dysfunction in AD and discusses potential strategies that target the synapse.
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Abstract
Cognitive impairment affects up to 80% of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and is associated with poor quality of life. PD cognitive dysfunction includes poor working memory, impairments in executive function and difficulty in set-shifting. The pathophysiology underlying cognitive impairment in PD is still poorly understood, but there is evidence to support involvements of the cholinergic, dopaminergic, and noradrenergic systems. Only rivastigmine, an acetyl- and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitor, is efficacious for the treatment of PD dementia, which limits management of cognitive impairment in PD. Whereas the role of the serotonergic system in PD cognition is less understood, through its interactions with other neurotransmitters systems, namely, the cholinergic system, it may be implicated in cognitive processes. In this chapter, we provide an overview of the pharmacological, clinical and pathological evidence that implicates the serotonergic system in mediating cognition in PD.
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Hsu TW, Stubbs B, Liang CS, Chen TY, Yeh TC, Pan CC, Chu CS. Efficacy of serotonergic antidepressant treatment for the neuropsychiatric symptoms and agitation in dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Ageing Res Rev 2021; 69:101362. [PMID: 34000464 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2021.101362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Serotonergic dysfunction may be involved in the etiology of overall neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) and agitation in patients with dementia; therefore, we aim to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy of serotonergic antidepressants in such populations. METHODS We systematically searched PubMed, Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library to obtain randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from the date of their inception until December 11, 2020 to examine the effect of serotonergic antidepressants on the outcomes of interest in patients with dementia. Data were pooled using a random-effects model. Co-primary outcomes were mean changes in overall NPS and agitation as a specific symptom of NPS. Secondary outcomes were mean changes in depressive symptoms, cognition, and care burden. RESULTS Fourteen randomized controlled trials were eligible (n = 1,374; mean age = 76.8 years; mean proportion of female = 61.9 %). Serotonergic antidepressants significantly reduced the overall NPS (k = 12, n = 1276, Hedges' g = -0.49, 95 % confidence intervals [CIs] = -0.74 to -0.24, p < 0.001) and agitation severity (k = 9, n = 749, Hedges' g = -0.28, 95 % CIs = -0.43 to -0.14, p < 0.001), both with small effect size in patients with dementia. For secondary outcome, serotonergic antidepressants also significantly improved depressive symptoms, cognition, and care burden with small to very small effect sizes (depressive symptoms, k = 8, n = 938, Hedges' g = -0.32, 95 % CIs = -0.49 to -0.15, p < 0.001;cognition, k = 6, n = 983, Hedges' g = 0.15, 95 % CIs = 0.002 to 0.29, p = 0.046; care burden, k = 7, n = 961, Hedges' g = -0.24, 95 % CIs = -0.41 to -0.07, p = 0.005). Subgroup analysis showed that both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and non-SSRIs significant reduced agitation and depressive symptoms (For agitation, SSRIs, k = 6, n = 605, Hedges' g = -0.25, 95 % CIs = -0.41 to -0.09, p=0.002; non-SSRIs, k = 3, n = 144, Hedges' g = -0.41, 95 % CIs = -0.74 to -0.08, p = 0.016; For depression, SSRIs, k = 6, n = 736, Hedges' g = -0.29, 95 % CIs = -0.48 to -0.09, p=0.004; non-SSRIs, k = 343, n = 144, Hedges' g = -0.43, 95 % CIs = -0.78 to -0.09, p = 0.016), whereas only SSRIs reduced overall NPS (k = 9, n = 1109, Hedges' g = -0.49, 95 % CIs = -0.78 to -0.20, p = 0.001) and care burden (k = 5, n = 740, Hedges' g = -0.29, 95 % CIs = -0.50 to -0.08, p=0.007). CONCLUSION The present meta-analysis indicates that serotonergic antidepressants effectively alleviate overall NPS, agitation, depressive symptoms, and care burden, and improve cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tien-Wei Hsu
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Brendon Stubbs
- Physiotherapy Department, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK; Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
| | - Chih-Sung Liang
- Department of Psychiatry, Beitou Branch, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Yu Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan
| | - Ta-Chuan Yeh
- Department of Psychiatry, Tri-Service General Hospital, School of Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan; Institute of Brain Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 112, Taiwan; Department of Psychiatry, Penghu Branch, Tri-Service General Hospital, Penghu, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chuan Pan
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Che-Sheng Chu
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Center for Geriatric and Gerontology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Non-invasive Neuromodulation Consortium for Mental Disorders, Society of Psychophysiology, Taipei, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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12
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Abstract
Aggressive behavior is one of the most disturbing symptoms of Alzheimer disease and other progressive neurodegenerative dementias. Development of strategies for management of aggressive behaviors in people with dementia is hindered by a lack of recognition that aggression is not a uniform behavioral construct. It is possible to distinguish 2 types of aggression: reactive or impulsive aggression and proactive or premeditated aggression. Research concerning aggressive behaviors in people with dementia is hindered by scales describing behavioral symptoms of dementia which do not distinguish between reactive and proactive aggressions because they do not consider the factors leading to these behaviors. Reactive aggression is caused by lack of understanding, leading to rejection of care, while proactive aggression could be caused by a psychopathic personality, hallucinations or delusions, and other determinants. It is difficult to underestimate the importance of distinguishing reactive and proactive aggressions in people with dementia because there are different strategies that can be used for management of these behaviors. For reactive aggression, delayed treatment, distraction, improved communication, and change in treatment strategy is useful, while antipsychotic medication may be needed for treatment of proactive aggression. Dementia is increasing the risk of both types of aggressions and antidepressant treatment can be helpful. Most importantly, persons exhibiting reactive aggression should not be labeled "aggressors" because this behavior could be caused by unmet persons' needs, pain and poor communication with care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ladislav Volicer
- School of Aging Studies, 7831University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.,3rd Medical Faculty, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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13
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Watt JA, Goodarzi Z, Veroniki AA, Nincic V, Khan PA, Ghassemi M, Lai Y, Treister V, Thompson Y, Schneider R, Tricco AC, Straus SE. Comparative efficacy of interventions for reducing symptoms of depression in people with dementia: systematic review and network meta-analysis. BMJ 2021; 372:n532. [PMID: 33762262 PMCID: PMC7988455 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.n532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the comparative efficacy of drug and non-drug interventions for reducing symptoms of depression in people with dementia who experience depression as a neuropsychiatric symptom of dementia or have a diagnosis of a major depressive disorder. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and grey literature between inception and 15 October 2020. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR STUDY SELECTION Randomised trials comparing drug or non-drug interventions with usual care or any other intervention targeting symptoms of depression in people with dementia. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Pairs of reviewers screened studies, abstracted aggregate level data, and appraised risk of bias with the Cochrane risk of bias tool, which facilitated the derivation of standardised mean differences and back transformed mean differences (on the Cornell scale for depression in dementia) from bayesian random effects network meta-analyses and pairwise meta-analyses. RESULTS Of 22 138 citations screened, 256 studies (28 483 people with dementia) were included. Missing data posed the greatest risk to review findings. In the network meta-analysis of studies including people with dementia without a diagnosis of a major depressive disorder who were experiencing symptoms of depression (213 studies; 25 177 people with dementia; between study variance 0.23), seven interventions were associated with a greater reduction in symptoms of depression compared with usual care: cognitive stimulation (mean difference -2.93, 95% credible interval -4.35 to -1.52), cognitive stimulation combined with a cholinesterase inhibitor (-11.39, -18.38 to -3.93), massage and touch therapy (-9.03, -12.28 to -5.88), multidisciplinary care (-1.98, -3.80 to -0.16), occupational therapy (-2.59, -4.70 to -0.40), exercise combined with social interaction and cognitive stimulation (-12.37, -19.01 to -5.36), and reminiscence therapy (-2.30, -3.68 to -0.93). Except for massage and touch therapy, cognitive stimulation combined with a cholinesterase inhibitor, and cognitive stimulation combined with exercise and social interaction, which were more efficacious than some drug interventions, no statistically significant difference was found in the comparative efficacy of drug and non-drug interventions for reducing symptoms of depression in people with dementia without a diagnosis of a major depressive disorder. Clinical and methodological heterogeneity precluded network meta-analysis of studies comparing the efficacy of interventions specifically for reducing symptoms of depression in people with dementia and a major depressive disorder (22 studies; 1829 patients). CONCLUSIONS In this systematic review, non-drug interventions were found to be more efficacious than drug interventions for reducing symptoms of depression in people with dementia without a major depressive disorder. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42017050130.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Watt
- Knowledge Translation Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Zahra Goodarzi
- Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Foothills Medical Centre, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- O'Brien Institute of Public Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Areti Angeliki Veroniki
- Knowledge Translation Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Primary Education, School of Education, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Vera Nincic
- Knowledge Translation Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Paul A Khan
- Knowledge Translation Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Marco Ghassemi
- Knowledge Translation Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yonda Lai
- Knowledge Translation Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Victoria Treister
- Knowledge Translation Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Yuan Thompson
- Knowledge Translation Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Raphael Schneider
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andrea C Tricco
- Knowledge Translation Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sharon E Straus
- Knowledge Translation Program, Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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14
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Babić Leko M, Hof PR, Šimić G. Alterations and interactions of subcortical modulatory systems in Alzheimer's disease. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2021; 261:379-421. [PMID: 33785136 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2020.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is not fully understood. Here we summarize current knowledge on the involvement of the serotonergic, noradrenergic, dopaminergic, cholinergic, and opioid systems in AD, emphasizing the importance of interactions between the serotonergic and the other subcortical modulatory systems during the progression of AD. In physiological conditions, all neurotransmitter systems function in concert and are interdependent at both the neuroanatomical and molecular levels. Through their early involvement in AD, cognitive and behavioral abilities that rely on their interactions also become disrupted. Considering that serotonin (5HT) regulates the release of noradrenaline (NA), dopamine (DA) and acetylcholine (ACh), any alteration in 5HT levels leads to disturbance of NA, DA, and ACh homeostasis in the brain. One of the earliest pathological changes during the prodromal phase of AD is a decrease of serotonergic transmission throughout the brain, with serotonergic receptors being also affected. Additionally, serotonergic and noradrenergic as well as serotonergic and dopaminergic nuclei are reciprocally interconnected. As the serotonergic dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) is affected by pathological changes early in AD, and the noradrenergic locus coeruleus (LC) and dopaminergic ventral tegmental area (VTA) exhibit AD-related pathological changes, their connectivity also becomes altered in AD. Such disrupted interactions among neurotransmitter systems in AD can be used in the development of multi-target drugs. Some of the potential AD therapeutics (such as ASS234, RS67333, tropisetron) target multiple neurotransmitter systems to achieve the best possible improvement of cognitive and behavioral deficits observed in AD. Here, we review how serotonergic system interacts with other subcortical modulatory systems (noradrenergic, dopaminergic, cholinergic, and opioid systems) during AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjana Babić Leko
- Department for Neuroscience, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb Medical School, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Patrick R Hof
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, and Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Goran Šimić
- Department for Neuroscience, Croatian Institute for Brain Research, University of Zagreb Medical School, Zagreb, Croatia.
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15
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The Psychopharmacology Algorithm Project at the Harvard South Shore Program: An update on management of behavioral and psychological symptoms in dementia. Psychiatry Res 2021; 295:113641. [PMID: 33340800 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Geriatric patients with dementia frequently present with agitation, aggression, psychosis, and other behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). We present an update of our previously published algorithms for the use of psychopharmacologic agents in these patients taking into account more recent studies and findings in meta-analyses, reviews, and other published algorithms. We propose three algorithms: BPSD in an emergent, urgent, and non-urgent setting. In the emergent setting when intramuscular (IM) administration is necessary, the first-line recommendation is for olanzapine (since IM aripiprazole, previously favored, is no longer available) and haloperidol injection is the second choice, followed by possible consideration of an IM benzodiazepine. In the urgent setting, the first line would be oral second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) aripiprazole and risperidone. Perhaps next could be then prazosin, and lastly electroconvulsive therapy is a consideration. There are risks associated with these agents, and adverse effects can be severe. Dosing strategies, discontinuation considerations, and side effects are discussed. In the non-emergent setting, medications are proposed for use in the following order: trazodone, donepezil and memantine, antidepressants such as escitalopram and sertraline, SGAs, prazosin, and carbamazepine. Other options with less support but potential future promise are discussed.
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16
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Gerlach LB, Kales HC. Pharmacological Management of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Dementia. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN PSYCHIATRY 2020; 7:489-507. [PMID: 33344107 PMCID: PMC7742723 DOI: 10.1007/s40501-020-00233-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Neuropsychiatric symptoms are universal across all stages and types of dementia and can cause significant challenges for patients and caregivers. While there are currently no approved medications for treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia, a variety of psychotropic medications such as antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants are used off-label to treat these symptoms. This systematic review evaluated the available evidence for effectiveness and tolerability of pharmacologic treatments in addressing behavioral disturbances in dementia. RECENT FINDINGS Inclusion criteria were placebo-controlled, randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) or meta-analyses; a total of 38 studies and 3 meta-analyses representing an additional 27 RCTs met the inclusion criteria. Of the medication classes evaluated, atypical antipsychotics had the greatest available evidence for use, however, the treatment effect size was modest. Nine trials of antidepressants were included; 3 trials supported use in dementia. Eight trials of anticonvulsants were included; only one showed benefit. For benzodiazepines, 2 RCTs were included; only one trial of lorazepam showed improvement. Six trials of melatonin agonists were included; none showed efficacy outside of improved sleep measures. Evidence for effectiveness of pimavanserin and dextromethorphan-quinidine was limited to one study each, both of which showed benefit. SUMMARY Despite the widespread off-label use of psychotropic medications for treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia, there are relatively few RCTs to evaluate their use with treatment effect sizes absent or modest for most medication classes. Of the medication classes reviewed, atypical antipsychotics have the best evidence for effectiveness, however, the overall magnitude of treatment effect is modest and must be balanced with risk of serious adverse events including death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren B. Gerlach
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Helen C. Kales
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Davis, CA
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17
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Fink HA, Linskens EJ, MacDonald R, Silverman PC, McCarten JR, Talley KMC, Forte ML, Desai PJ, Nelson VA, Miller MA, Hemmy LS, Brasure M, Taylor BC, Ng W, Ouellette JM, Sheets KM, Wilt TJ, Butler M. Benefits and Harms of Prescription Drugs and Supplements for Treatment of Clinical Alzheimer-Type Dementia. Ann Intern Med 2020; 172:656-668. [PMID: 32340037 DOI: 10.7326/m19-3887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effects of drug treatment of clinical Alzheimer-type dementia (CATD) are uncertain. PURPOSE To summarize evidence on the effects of prescription drugs and supplements for CATD treatment. DATA SOURCES Electronic bibliographic databases (inception to November 2019), ClinicalTrials.gov (to November 2019), and systematic review bibliographies. STUDY SELECTION English-language trials of prescription drug and supplement treatment in older adults with CATD that report cognition, function, global measures, behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), or harms. Minimum treatment was 24 weeks (≥2 weeks for selected BPSD). DATA EXTRACTION Studies with low or medium risk of bias (ROB) were analyzed. Two reviewers rated ROB. One reviewer extracted data; another verified extraction accuracy. DATA SYNTHESIS Fifty-five studies reporting non-BPSD outcomes (most ≤26 weeks) and 12 reporting BPSD (most ≤12 weeks) were analyzed. Across CATD severity, mostly low-strength evidence suggested that, compared with placebo, cholinesterase inhibitors produced small average improvements in cognition (median standardized mean difference [SMD], 0.30 [range, 0.24 to 0.52]), no difference to small improvement in function (median SMD, 0.19 [range, -0.10 to 0.22]), no difference in the likelihood of at least moderate improvement in global clinical impression (median absolute risk difference, 4% [range, 2% to 4%]), and increased withdrawals due to adverse events. In adults with moderate to severe CATD receiving cholinesterase inhibitors, low- to insufficient-strength evidence suggested that, compared with placebo, add-on memantine inconsistently improved cognition and improved global clinical impression but not function. Evidence was mostly insufficient about prescription drugs for BPSD and about supplements for all outcomes. LIMITATION Most drugs had few trials without high ROB, especially for supplements, active drug comparisons, BPSD, and longer trials. CONCLUSION Cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine slightly reduced short-term cognitive decline, and cholinesterase inhibitors slightly reduced reported functional decline, but differences versus placebo were of uncertain clinical importance. Evidence was mostly insufficient on drug treatment of BPSD and on supplements for all outcomes. PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. (PROSPERO: CRD42018117897).
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Affiliation(s)
- Howard A Fink
- Minneapolis VA Health Care System and University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.F., J.R.M., L.S.H., B.C.T., T.J.W.)
| | - Eric J Linskens
- Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota (E.J.L., R.M., M.A.M.)
| | - Roderick MacDonald
- Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota (E.J.L., R.M., M.A.M.)
| | | | - J Riley McCarten
- Minneapolis VA Health Care System and University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.F., J.R.M., L.S.H., B.C.T., T.J.W.)
| | - Kristine M C Talley
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (K.M.T., M.L.F., P.J.D., V.A.N., M.B., W.N., J.M.O., M.B.)
| | - Mary L Forte
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (K.M.T., M.L.F., P.J.D., V.A.N., M.B., W.N., J.M.O., M.B.)
| | - Priyanka J Desai
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (K.M.T., M.L.F., P.J.D., V.A.N., M.B., W.N., J.M.O., M.B.)
| | - Victoria A Nelson
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (K.M.T., M.L.F., P.J.D., V.A.N., M.B., W.N., J.M.O., M.B.)
| | - Margaret A Miller
- Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota (E.J.L., R.M., M.A.M.)
| | - Laura S Hemmy
- Minneapolis VA Health Care System and University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.F., J.R.M., L.S.H., B.C.T., T.J.W.)
| | - Michelle Brasure
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (K.M.T., M.L.F., P.J.D., V.A.N., M.B., W.N., J.M.O., M.B.)
| | - Brent C Taylor
- Minneapolis VA Health Care System and University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.F., J.R.M., L.S.H., B.C.T., T.J.W.)
| | - Weiwen Ng
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (K.M.T., M.L.F., P.J.D., V.A.N., M.B., W.N., J.M.O., M.B.)
| | - Jeannine M Ouellette
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (K.M.T., M.L.F., P.J.D., V.A.N., M.B., W.N., J.M.O., M.B.)
| | - Kerry M Sheets
- Hennepin Healthcare and Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota (K.M.S.)
| | - Timothy J Wilt
- Minneapolis VA Health Care System and University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (H.A.F., J.R.M., L.S.H., B.C.T., T.J.W.)
| | - Mary Butler
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (K.M.T., M.L.F., P.J.D., V.A.N., M.B., W.N., J.M.O., M.B.)
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18
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Phan SV, Osae S, Morgan JC, Inyang M, Fagan SC. Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Dementia: Considerations for Pharmacotherapy in the USA. Drugs R D 2019; 19:93-115. [PMID: 31098864 PMCID: PMC6544588 DOI: 10.1007/s40268-019-0272-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Dementia affects all domains of cognition. The relentless progression of the disease after diagnosis is associated with a 98% incidence of neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) at some point in the disease, including depression, psychosis, agitation, aggression, apathy, sleep disturbances, and disinhibition. These symptoms can be severe and lead to excess morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this article was to describe current literature on the medication management of NPS of dementia and highlight approaches to and concerns about the pharmacological treatment of NPS in the USA. Guidelines and expert opinion favor nonpharmacologic management of NPS as first-line management. Unfortunately, lack of adequate caregiver training and a high failure rate eventually result in the use of psychotropic agents in patients with dementia. Various psychotropic medications have been studied, although how they should be used in the management of NPS remains unclear. A systematic approach to evaluation, treatment, and monitoring, along with careful documentation and evidenced-based agent and dose selection, is likely to reduce risk and improve patient outcomes. Considerations should be given to the NPS presentation, including type, frequency, and severity, when weighing the risks and benefits of initiating, continuing, or discontinuing psychotropic management. Use of antidepressants, sedative/hypnotics, antipsychotics, and antiepileptic agents should include a clear and documented analysis of risk and benefit in a given patient with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie V Phan
- Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Southwest Georgia Clinical Campus, Albany, GA, USA.
| | - Sharmon Osae
- Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Southwest Georgia Clinical Campus, Albany, GA, USA
| | - John C Morgan
- Memory Disorders Program, Department of Neurology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Mfon Inyang
- Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Albany, GA, USA
| | - Susan C Fagan
- Memory Disorders Program, Department of Neurology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.,Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA.,Program in Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA, USA
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19
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The goal of the current review is to provide an update on the management of agitation in persons with dementia with a focus on pharmacological management of persons with Alzheimer's disease. RECENT FINDINGS As consistently effective and safe pharmacologic interventions are still lacking, identifying and addressing medical and environmental precipitants remain a priority. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and memantine should be initiated to enhance cognition, and if present, management of insomnia or sundowning with trazodone is indicated. If agitation persists, treatment with citalopram can be initiated with attention paid to potential prolongation of the QT interval. Treatment with low doses of atypical antipsychotics such as risperidone or quetiapine can be effective after appropriate consideration of and disclosure of potential adverse effects. In light of the lack of consistently effective treatments for agitation in dementia, there have been renewed efforts to define the condition and improve the design of trials of medications to treat it. Considering the heterogeneity of patients and their comorbidities as well as the specific nature of their "agitation", there is no "one-size fits all" approach to agitation in AD. However, many options exist that can be prudently pursued for this common problem in this delicate population.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M Ringman
- Helene and Lou Galen Professor of Clinical Neurology, Department of Neurology, Center for Health Professions, Keck School of Medicine at USC, 1540 Alcazar Street, Suite 209F, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
| | - Lon Schneider
- Keck School of Medicine of USC, 1540 Alcazar St, #216, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
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20
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Zhou C, Chao F, Zhang Y, Jiang L, Zhang L, Fan J, Wu Y, Dou X, Tang Y. Fluoxetine delays the cognitive function decline and synaptic changes in a transgenic mouse model of early Alzheimer's disease. J Comp Neurol 2019; 527:1378-1387. [DOI: 10.1002/cne.24616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chun‐ni Zhou
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue EngineeringChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Feng‐lei Chao
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue EngineeringChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue EngineeringChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Lin Jiang
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue EngineeringChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue EngineeringChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Jin‐hua Fan
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue EngineeringChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Yong‐xin Wu
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue EngineeringChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Key Laboratory of Diagnostic Medicine, Ministry of EducationChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Xiao‐yun Dou
- Institute of Life SciencesChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
| | - Yong Tang
- Department of Histology and EmbryologyChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Tissue EngineeringChongqing Medical University Chongqing China
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Impact of Antidepressant Use on the Trajectory of Alzheimer's Disease: Evidence, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Implications. CNS Drugs 2019; 33:17-29. [PMID: 30456746 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-018-0590-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between antidepressants and Alzheimer's disease (AD) is very complex, and the literature is mixed regarding the effect of these medications on the trajectory of the disease. This paper reviews findings from relevant clinical studies that have assessed the impact of antidepressants on AD onset and disease progression. To date, these medications seem to attenuate the risk of developing the disease without affecting the rate of progression. However, most evidence stems from observational studies that are subject to methodological bias. Serotonergic antidepressants are thought to affect AD pathophysiology by reducing β-amyloid (Aβ) plaque formation and promoting hippocampal neurogenesis. However, the mechanisms underlying their effect need to be examined further, especially in humans. Moreover, more robust clinical studies in terms of design (randomized controlled trials) and longer duration of follow-up are needed. Variables, including depression timeline/onset and its clinical course, apolipoprotein E4 (APOE4) genotype status, sex, dose/duration of antidepressant treatment, and AD biomarkers need to be incorporated in future trials to better elucidate the effect of antidepressants on AD risk.
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Mathys M. Pharmacologic management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of major neurocognitive disorder. Ment Health Clin 2018; 8:284-293. [PMID: 30397570 PMCID: PMC6213893 DOI: 10.9740/mhc.2018.11.284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) occur in approximately 80% of patients who receive a diagnosis of major neurocognitive disorder. Nonpharmacologic strategies are the first-line treatment for BPSD. However, psychotropic medications are often necessary when nonpharmacologic methods are not effective in treating symptoms that are distressing or are causing behaviors that are dangerous to the patient or the patient's caregivers. The article provides a review of evidence-based recommendations for the use of antipsychotics, cognitive enhancers, and serotonin reuptake inhibitors for the treatment of BPSD. Different pharmacologic approaches are demonstrated through 2 patient cases in which nonpharmacologic management was not effective. The severity of BPSD must be weighed against the risks and benefits of pharmacologic intervention in order to implement an optimal medication regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Mathys
- (Corresponding author) Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice, Clinical Pharmacy Specialist-Mental Health, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Dallas, Texas,
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of antidepressants in dementia accompanied by depressive symptoms is widespread, but their clinical efficacy is uncertain. This review updates an earlier version, first published in 2002. OBJECTIVES To determine the efficacy and safety of any type of antidepressant for patients who have been diagnosed as having dementia of any type and depression as defined by recognised criteria. SEARCH METHODS We searched ALOIS, the Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group's Specialised Register, on 16 August 2017. ALOIS contains information on trials retrieved from databases and from a number of trial registers and grey literature sources. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all relevant double-blind, randomised trials comparing any antidepressant drug with placebo, for patients diagnosed as having dementia and depression. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors selected studies for inclusion and extracted data independently. We assessed risk of bias in the included studies using the Cochrane 'Risk of bias' tool. Where clinically appropriate, we pooled data for treatment periods up to three months and from three to nine months. We used GRADE methods to assess the overall quality of the evidence. MAIN RESULTS We included ten studies with a total of 1592 patients. Eight included studies reported sufficiently detailed results to enter into analyses related to antidepressant efficacy. We split one study which included two different antidepressants and therefore had nine groups of patients treated with antidepressants compared with nine groups receiving placebo treatment. Information needed to make 'Risk of bias' judgements was often missing.We found high-quality evidence of little or no difference in scores on depression symptom rating scales between the antidepressant and placebo treated groups after 6 to 13 weeks (standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.10, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.26 to 0.06; 614 participants; 8 studies). There was probably also little or no difference between groups after six to nine months (mean difference (MD) 0.59 point, 95% CI -1.12 to 2.3, 357 participants; 2 studies; moderate-quality evidence). The evidence on response rates at 12 weeks was of low quality, and imprecision in the result meant we were uncertain of any effect of antidepressants (antidepressant: 49.1%, placebo: 37.7%; odds ratio (OR) 1.71, 95% CI 0.80 to 3.67; 116 participants; 3 studies). However, the remission rate was probably higher in the antidepressant group than the placebo group (antidepressant: 40%, placebo: 21.7%; OR 2.57, 95% CI 1.44 to 4.59; 240 participants; 4 studies; moderate-quality evidence). The largest of these studies continued for another 12 weeks, but because of imprecision of the result we could not be sure of any effect of antidepressants on remission rates after 24 weeks. There was evidence of no effect of antidepressants on performance of activities of daily living at weeks 6 to 13 (SMD -0.05, 95% CI -0.36 to 0.25; 173 participants; 4 studies; high-quality evidence) and probably also little or no effect on cognition (MD 0.33 point on the Mini-Mental State Examination, 95% CI -1.31 to 1.96; 194 participants; 6 studies; moderate-quality evidence).Participants on antidepressants were probably more likely to drop out of treatment than those on placebo over 6 to 13 weeks (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.07 to 2.14; 836 participants; 9 studies). The meta-analysis of the number of participants suffering at least one adverse event showed a significant difference in favour of placebo (antidepressant: 49.2%, placebo: 38.4%; OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.21 to 1.98, 1073 participants; 3 studies), as did the analyses for participants suffering one event of dry mouth (antidepressant: 19.6%, placebo: 13.3%; OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.23 to 2.63, 1044 participants; 5 studies), and one event of dizziness (antidepressant: 19.2%, placebo: 12.5%; OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.34 to 2.98, 1044 participants; 5 studies). Heterogeneity in the way adverse events were reported in studies presented a major difficulty for meta-analysis, but there was some evidence that antidepressant treatment causes more adverse effects than placebo treatment does. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The available evidence is of variable quality and does not provide strong support for the efficacy of antidepressants for treating depression in dementia, especially beyond 12 weeks. On the only measure of efficacy for which we had high-quality evidence (depression rating scale scores), antidepressants showed little or no effect. The evidence on remission rates favoured antidepressants but was of moderate quality, so future research may find a different result. There was insufficient evidence to draw conclusions about individual antidepressant drugs or about subtypes of dementia or depression. There is some evidence that antidepressant treatment may cause adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Dudas
- University of CambridgeDepartment of PsychiatryAddenbrooke's HospitalHills RoadCambridgeUKCQ2 2QQ
- Cambridge and Peterborough NHS Foundation TrustOlder People's Mental Health ServiceCambridgeUK
| | - Reem Malouf
- University of OxfordNational Perinatal Epidemiology Unit (NPEU)Old Road CampusOxfordUKOX3 7LF
| | - Jenny McCleery
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation TrustElms CentreOxford RoadBanburyOxfordshireUKOX16 9AL
| | - Tom Dening
- The University of NottinghamDivision of Psychiatry & Applied PsychologyTriumph RoadNottinghamUKNG7 2TU
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Kongpakwattana K, Sawangjit R, Tawankanjanachot I, Bell JS, Hilmer SN, Chaiyakunapruk N. Pharmacological treatments for alleviating agitation in dementia: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2018; 84:1445-1456. [PMID: 29637593 PMCID: PMC6005613 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.13604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS To determine the most efficacious and acceptable treatments of agitation in dementia. METHODS MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CENTRAL and clinicaltrials.gov were searched up to 7 February 2017. Two independent reviewers selected randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of treatments to alleviate agitation in people with all-types dementia. Data were extracted using standardized forms and study quality was assessed using the revised Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for RCTs. Data were pooled using meta-analysis. The primary outcome, efficacy, was 8-week response rates defined as a 50% reduction in baseline agitation score. The secondary outcome was treatment acceptability defined as treatment continuation for 8 weeks. RESULTS Thirty-six RCTs comprising 5585 participants (30.9% male; mean ± standard deviation age, 81.8 ± 4.9 years) were included. Dextromethorphan/quinidine [odds ratio (OR) 3.04; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.63-5.66], risperidone (OR 1.96; 95% CI, 1.49-2.59) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors as a class (OR 1.61; 95% CI, 1.02-2.53) were found to be significantly more efficacious than placebo. Haloperidol appeared less efficacious than nearly all comparators. Most treatments had noninferior treatment continuation compared to placebo, except oxcarbazepine, which was inferior. Findings were supported by subgroup and sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS Risperidone, serotonin reuptake inhibitors as a class and dextromethorphan/quinidine demonstrated evidence of efficacy for agitation in dementia, although findings for dextromethorphan/quinidine were based on a single RCT. Our findings do not support prescribing haloperidol due to lack of efficacy, or oxcarbazepine due to lack of acceptability. The decision to prescribe should be based on comprehensive consideration of the benefits and risks, including those not evaluated in this meta-analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ratree Sawangjit
- Clinical Trials and Evidence Base Syntheses Research Unit (CTEBs RU), Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of PharmacyMahasarakham UniversityMahasarakhamThailand
| | - Itthipol Tawankanjanachot
- Department of Psychiatry, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Faculty of MedicineChulalongkorn UniversityBangkokThailand
| | - J. Simon Bell
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical SciencesMonash UniversityAustralia
| | - Sarah N. Hilmer
- Kolling Institute of Medical ResearchRoyal North Shore Hospital and University of SydneySt LeonardsNSWAustralia
| | - Nathorn Chaiyakunapruk
- School of PharmacyMonash University MalaysiaSelangorMalaysia
- Center of Pharmaceutical Outcomes Research (CPOR), Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical SciencesNaresuan UniversityPhitsanulokThailand
- Asian Centre for Evidence Synthesis in Population, Implementation and Clinical Outcomes (PICO), Health and Well‐being Cluster, Global Asia in the 21st Century (GA21) PlatformMonash University MalaysiaBandar SunwaySelangorMalaysia
- School of PharmacyUniversity of WisconsinMadisonUSA
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Creese B, Da Silva MV, Johar I, Ballard C. The modern role of antipsychotics for the treatment of agitation and psychosis in Alzheimer's disease. Expert Rev Neurother 2018; 18:461-467. [PMID: 29764230 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2018.1476140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antipsychotics have long been the mainstay of treatment for agitation and psychosis in Alzheimer's disease. Despite their current use successive studies have shown that they only confer a modest benefit which must be balanced against their well-established serious side effects (extrapyramidal symptoms, stroke, accelerated cognitive decline and mortality). Areas covered: This review outlines the current guidance on antipsychotic usage and the evidence of their continued usage against a backdrop of emerging pharmacological treatments and an increasing emphasis on the importance of non-pharmacological interventions. Expert commentary: The current justification for antipsychotic use in the context of the changing landscape of prescribing and provide a view on the most promising alternative candidates to this class of drug are appraised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byron Creese
- a University of Exeter Medical School , University of Exeter , UK
| | | | - Iskandar Johar
- b Department of Old Age Psychiatry , Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London , UK
| | - Clive Ballard
- a University of Exeter Medical School , University of Exeter , UK
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Lozupone M, La Montagna M, D'Urso F, Piccininni C, Sardone R, Dibello V, Giannelli G, Solfrizzi V, Greco A, Daniele A, Quaranta N, Seripa D, Bellomo A, Logroscino G, Panza F. Pharmacotherapy for the treatment of depression in patients with alzheimer's disease: a treatment-resistant depressive disorder. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2018; 19:823-842. [PMID: 29726758 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2018.1471136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pharmacotherapy for the treatment of depressive disorders in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) represents a clinical challenge. pharmacological options are often attempted after a period of watchful waiting (8-12 weeks). monoaminergic antidepressant drugs have shown only modest or null clinical benefits, maybe because the etiology of depressive symptoms in ad patients is fundamentally different from that of nondemented subjects. AREAS COVERED The following article looks at the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor sertraline, which is one of the most frequently studied antidepressant medications in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). It also discusses many other pharmacological approaches that have proven to be inadequate (antipsychotics, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, anticonvulsants, hormone replacement therapy) and new drug classes (mainly affecting glutamate transmission) that are being studied for treating depression in AD. It also gives discussion to the phase II RCT on the alternative drug S47445 and the potential effect on cognition of the multimodal antidepressant vortioxetine in older depressed patients. Finally, it discusses the N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonist ketamine. EXPERT OPINION The present RCT methodologies are too disparate to draw firm conclusions. Future studies are required to identify effective and multimodal pharmacological treatments that efficiently treat depression in AD. Genotyping may boost antidepressant treatment success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madia Lozupone
- a Neurodegenerative Disease Unit, Department of Basic Medicine, Neuroscience, and Sense Organs , University of Bari Aldo Moro , Bari , Italy
| | - Maddalena La Montagna
- b Psychiatric Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine , University of Foggia , Foggia , Italy
| | - Francesca D'Urso
- b Psychiatric Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine , University of Foggia , Foggia , Italy
| | - Carla Piccininni
- b Psychiatric Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine , University of Foggia , Foggia , Italy
| | - Rodolfo Sardone
- c Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics , National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. de Bellis" Research Hospital , Castellana Grotte, Bari , Italy
| | - Vittorio Dibello
- d Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine (DIM), Section of Dentistry , University of Bari Aldo Moro , Bari , Italy
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- c Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics , National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. de Bellis" Research Hospital , Castellana Grotte, Bari , Italy
| | - Vincenzo Solfrizzi
- e Geriatric Medicine-Memory Unit and Rare Disease Centre , University of Bari Aldo Moro , Bari , Italy
| | - Antonio Greco
- f Geriatric Unit & Laboratory of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Department of Medical Sciences , IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza" , San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia , Italy
| | - Antonio Daniele
- g Institute of Neurology , Catholic University of Sacred Heart , Rome , Italy
| | - Nicola Quaranta
- h Otolaryngology Unit , University of Bari "Aldo Moro" , Bari , Italy
| | - Davide Seripa
- f Geriatric Unit & Laboratory of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Department of Medical Sciences , IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza" , San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia , Italy
| | - Antonello Bellomo
- b Psychiatric Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine , University of Foggia , Foggia , Italy
| | - Giancarlo Logroscino
- a Neurodegenerative Disease Unit, Department of Basic Medicine, Neuroscience, and Sense Organs , University of Bari Aldo Moro , Bari , Italy.,i Department of Clinical Research in Neurology , University of Bari Aldo Moro, "Pia Fondazione Cardinale G. Panico" , Tricase, Lecce , Italy
| | - Francesco Panza
- a Neurodegenerative Disease Unit, Department of Basic Medicine, Neuroscience, and Sense Organs , University of Bari Aldo Moro , Bari , Italy.,f Geriatric Unit & Laboratory of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Department of Medical Sciences , IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza" , San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia , Italy.,i Department of Clinical Research in Neurology , University of Bari Aldo Moro, "Pia Fondazione Cardinale G. Panico" , Tricase, Lecce , Italy
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Mathys M, Fang S, John J, Carter J. Antipsychotic discontinuation after the initiation of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors therapy for the treatment of behavioral and psychological symptoms associated with dementia. Ment Health Clin 2018; 8:122-126. [PMID: 29955557 PMCID: PMC6007639 DOI: 10.9740/mhc.2018.05.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Antipsychotics are used off label to treat behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). Due to the emerging data of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for treatment of BPSD, clinicians may choose to use this medication class instead of antipsychotics when pharmacologic therapy is necessary. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of antipsychotic discontinuation 6 months after SSRI initiation for the treatment of BPSD. Methods: Patients with Alzheimer dementia who were prescribed an antipsychotic and later prescribed an SSRI for BPSD during January 1, 2009, through December 30, 2014, were studied. Exclusion criteria included (1) a dementia diagnosis besides Alzheimer; (2) scheduled benzodiazepines, mood stabilizers, or non-SSRI antidepressant use during the study period; (3) diagnoses of bipolar or psychotic disorders; and (4) diagnosis of delirium during the study period. Patients' age, sex, race, and functional assessment of staging for Alzheimer disease scores were collected. The names, doses, and stop dates of SSRIs and antipsychotics were also recorded. Results: Thirty-six patients were included in the analyses. Overall, antipsychotic use was reduced in 11 patients (30.6%). Ten patients (27.8%) discontinued the antipsychotic, and 1 additional patient had a reduction in dose. When comparing specific SSRIs, 8 (72%) responders were prescribed citalopram, and 15 (60%) nonresponders were prescribed sertraline. Discussion: Approximately 30% of patients with Alzheimer dementia who were prescribed antipsychotics for BPSD were able to discontinue the medication or had a dose reduction after starting SSRI therapy. Most SSRI responders were prescribed citalopram.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Mathys
- Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice, Clinical Pharmacy Specialist - Mental Health, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Veterans Affairs North Texas Health Care System, Dallas, Texas,
| | - Steven Fang
- PharmD Student, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, School of Pharmacy, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jini John
- PharmD Student, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, School of Pharmacy, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jasmine Carter
- PharmD Student, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, School of Pharmacy, Dallas, Texas
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Ford AH, Almeida OP. Management of Depression in Patients with Dementia: Is Pharmacological Treatment Justified? Drugs Aging 2017; 34:89-95. [PMID: 28074409 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-016-0434-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Depression in the context of dementia is common and contributes to poorer outcomes in individuals and those who care for them. Non-pharmacological treatments are the preferred initial approach to managing these symptoms but data in support of these are scarce. There are a number of pharmacological treatment options available to clinicians but efficacy is uncertain and concern about potential side effects in an aging and vulnerable population needs to be taken into consideration. This review aims to provide a concise overview of pharmacological treatments for depression in dementia. Antidepressants are the mainstay of pharmacological treatment for clinically significant depression in the general population but evidence to support their use in dementia is mixed. Trials of antidepressants should generally be reserved for individuals with depression where the symptoms are distressing and surpass the threshold for major depression. Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and memantine are effective in the symptomatic treatment of Alzheimer's disease but current evidence does not support their use to treat depressive symptoms in dementia. Similarly, antipsychotics and mood stabilizers have no proven efficacy for depression and the risk of adverse effects seems to outweigh any potential benefit. Pain can be a frequent problem in dementia and may have significant effects on behavior and mood. Preliminary evidence supports a role of adequate analgesia in improving mood in people with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew H Ford
- School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences (M573), Western Australian Centre for Health and Ageing (M573), Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia.
| | - Osvaldo P Almeida
- School of Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences (M573), Western Australian Centre for Health and Ageing (M573), Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia
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Baker E, Iqbal E, Johnston C, Broadbent M, Shetty H, Stewart R, Howard R, Newhouse S, Khondoker M, Dobson RJB. Trajectories of dementia-related cognitive decline in a large mental health records derived patient cohort. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178562. [PMID: 28591196 PMCID: PMC5462385 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Modeling trajectories of decline can help describe the variability in progression of cognitive impairment in dementia. Better characterisation of these trajectories has significant implications for understanding disease progression, trial design and care planning. METHODS Patients with at least three Mini-mental State Examination (MMSE) scores recorded in the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust Electronic Health Records, UK were selected (N = 3441) to form a retrospective cohort. Trajectories of cognitive decline were identified through latent class growth analysis of longitudinal MMSE scores. Demographics, Health of Nation Outcome Scales and medications were compared across trajectories identified. RESULTS Four of the six trajectories showed increased rate of decline with lower baseline MMSE. Two trajectories had similar initial MMSE scores but different rates of decline. In the faster declining trajectory of the two, a higher incidence of both behavioral problems and sertraline prescription were present. CONCLUSIONS We find suggestive evidence for association of behavioral problems and sertraline prescription with rate of decline. Further work is needed to determine whether trajectories replicate in other datasets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Baker
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ehtesham Iqbal
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline Johnston
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research for mental health and Dementia Unit at South London and Maudlsey NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Broadbent
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research for mental health and Dementia Unit at South London and Maudlsey NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hitesh Shetty
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Stewart
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Howard
- Division of Psychiatry, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Newhouse
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research for mental health and Dementia Unit at South London and Maudlsey NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Farr Institute of Health Informatics Research, UCL institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mizanur Khondoker
- Department of Population Health and Primary Care, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Richard J. B. Dobson
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research for mental health and Dementia Unit at South London and Maudlsey NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- Farr Institute of Health Informatics Research, UCL institute of Health Informatics, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Farina N, Morrell L, Banerjee S. What is the therapeutic value of antidepressants in dementia? A narrative review. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2017; 32:32-49. [PMID: 27593707 DOI: 10.1002/gps.4566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 07/17/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Antidepressants are commonly used in dementia. Depression is a frequent and important co-morbidity in dementia, and antidepressants are often used to treat depression and more widely. However, there are questions about their utility in depression in dementia and other behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. The aim of this narrative review is to summarize the evidence on whether there is therapeutic value in prescribing antidepressants to people with dementia. METHODS A PubMed search was performed to identify randomized controlled trials that prescribed antidepressants to people with dementia, either in the treatment of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (depression, anxiety, agitation/aggression, psychosis and apathy) or for secondary outcomes (quality of life, carer burden, activities of daily living, cognition, clinical severity and adverse events). RESULTS Thirty-six randomized controlled trials were identified (participant n = 3386). A consistent finding in well-designed blinded placebo controlled trials in dementia is the lack of positive effect of antidepressants on outcomes of interest, including depression. One large well-designed study has reported a significant reduction in agitation in people with dementia, but at the expense of clinically significant adverse events. Otherwise, change observed in open trials is also seen in the placebo group, suggesting that any effect is not attributable to the prescription of antidepressants. CONCLUSIONS It is striking how few data there are on indications other than depression. We should question the use of antidepressants in dementia. Definitive trials of clinical effectiveness of specific indications such as anxiety and agitation in dementia and discontinuation of antidepressants in dementia are needed. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Farina
- Centre for Dementia Studies, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | - Lucy Morrell
- Centre for Dementia Studies, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | - Sube Banerjee
- Centre for Dementia Studies, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
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Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, characterized by the loss of memory, multiple cognitive impairments and changes in the personality and behavior. Several decades of intense research have revealed that multiple cellular changes are involved in disease process, including synaptic damage, mitochondrial abnormalities and inflammatory responses, in addition to formation and accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) and phosphorylated tau. Although tremendous progress has been made in understanding the impact of neurotransmitters in the progression and pathogenesis of AD, we still do not have a drug molecule associated with neurotransmitter(s) that can delay disease process in elderly individuals and/or restore cognitive functions in AD patients. The purpose of our article is to assess the latest developments in neurotransmitters research using cell and mouse models of AD. We also updated the current status of clinical trials using neurotransmitters' agonists/antagonists in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh Kandimalla
- Garrison Institute on Aging Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
- Pharmacology & Neuroscience Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - P. Hemachandra Reddy
- Garrison Institute on Aging Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
- Pharmacology & Neuroscience Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
- Cell Biology & Biochemistry Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
- Neurology Department, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
- Garrison Institute on Aging, South West Campus, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
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Brodrick JE, Mathys ML. Antidepressant Exposure and Risk of Dementia in Older Adults with Major Depressive Disorder. J Am Geriatr Soc 2016; 64:2517-2521. [DOI: 10.1111/jgs.14378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joy E. Brodrick
- Parkland Health and Hospital System; Dallas Texas
- School of Pharmacy; Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center; Dallas Texas
| | - Monica L. Mathys
- School of Pharmacy; Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center; Dallas Texas
- Veterans Affairs North Texas Health Care System; Dallas Texas
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Birtley NM. Psychotropic Alternatives to Antipsychotic Medications in Treating Dementia Behaviors: An Evidence-Based Practice Protocol. J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv 2016; 54:46-53. [PMID: 27699426 DOI: 10.3928/02793695-20160920-08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Antipsychotic medications pose a significant risk to older adult patients with dementia and are frequently prescribed as first-line treatment for behaviors associated with dementia in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). SNFs are often cited by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid for inappropriate antipsychotic medication use. The purpose of the current article is to communicate an evidence-based practice (EBP) clinical protocol that can guide clinicians away from prescribing antipsychotic medications in the treatment of dementia behaviors. A literature review of 17 rigorous research studies was conducted to determine psychotropic risk and efficacy in treating dementia behaviors. An EBP clinical protocol establishing a hierarchy of psychotropic medications based on risk and efficacy was developed to guide clinicians away from the use of antipsychotic medications and toward the use of potentially safer and more efficacious psychotropic medications in dementia treatment while offering flexibility for clinical judgment. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 54(10), 46-53.].
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Choe YM, Kim KW, Jhoo JH, Ryu SH, Seo EH, Sohn BK, Byun MS, Bak JH, Lee JM, Yun HJ, Han MI, Woo JI, Lee DY. Multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial of escitalopram on the progression-delaying effects in Alzheimer's disease. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2016; 31:731-9. [PMID: 26553313 DOI: 10.1002/gps.4384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2015] [Revised: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A series of preclinical studies have suggested that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants not only stimulate neurogenesis but also have neuroprotective effects. The present study primarily aimed to investigate whether escitalopram would decelerate the brain atrophy of patients with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease (AD). We also assessed the effects of escitalopram on the cognitive function and neuropsychiatric symptoms of these participants. METHODS Seventy-four probable AD patients without major depression were recruited from four dementia clinics of university hospitals and randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio. Each group received 20 mg/day of escitalopram or placebo for 52 weeks. The primary outcome measures were the change rates of hippocampal and whole brain volume on magnetic resonance imaging for 52 weeks. The Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale, Mini-Mental State Examination, Neuropsychiatric Inventory, and Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD) were also applied. RESULTS We did not find any significant differences in the changes of hippocampal or whole brain volume between the groups. Escitalopram showed significant beneficial effects on the CSDD score at 28 weeks compared with placebo (t = -2.17, df = 50.42, p = 0.035), but this finding did not persist throughout the study. CONCLUSION The findings of the present study do not support the role of escitalopram as a progression-delaying treatment for AD. However, the negative results of the present trial should be interpreted cautiously because of the relatively small sample size. Further large-scale escitalopram trials targeting the earlier stages of AD, even prodromal AD, are still needed. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Min Choe
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan University Hospital, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Ki Woong Kim
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Jin Hyeong Jhoo
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kangwon National University Hospital, Chunchon, Korea
| | - Seung Ho Ryu
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Konkuk University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Hyun Seo
- Division of Natural Medical Sciences, College of Health Science Chosun University, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Bo Kyung Sohn
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Soo Byun
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae-Hwa Bak
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong-Min Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyuk Jin Yun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Myeong-Il Han
- Department of Psychiatry, Maeumsarang Hospital, Wanju, Korea
| | - Jong Inn Woo
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Young Lee
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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Jones HE, Joshi A, Shenkin S, Mead GE. The effect of treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in comparison to placebo in the progression of dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Age Ageing 2016; 45:448-56. [PMID: 27055878 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afw053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may affect the neurodegenerative process of dementia, enhancing cognition. This systematic review aims to determine whether SSRIs influence cognitive performance, mood and function in people with any type of dementia. METHOD randomised placebo-controlled studies of SSRIs in people with dementia, which recorded cognitive outcomes, were identified in ALOIS (ALzheimer's and cOgnitive Improvement Studies register) in April 2013 and updated in January 2015. Data were extracted on cognition, agitation, mood, activities of daily living (ADLs) and adverse events. End of treatment statistics were calculated. RESULTS twelve studies met inclusion criteria (1,174 participants), of which seven studies (710 participants) provided data for meta-analysis on cognition. There was no difference in MMSE score at end of treatment; mean difference (MD) was 0.28 (95% CI -0.83 to 1.39) (six studies, 470 participants). For change in MMSE scores, there was a small improvement; MD was 0.53 (95%CI -0.07 to 1.14) (three studies, 352 participants). The remaining studies showed no improvement in cognition. There was no statistically significant benefit of SSRIs on mood (four studies, 317 participants); standard mean difference (SMD) -0.10 (95% CI -0.39 to 0.2), agitation (three studies, 189 participants); SMD -0.01(95% CI -0.86 to 0.83), or ADLs at end of treatment (four studies, 336 participants); SMD -0.15(95% CI -0.45 to 0.15). There was no difference in mortality between the two groups. Study quality was mixed with concerns over incomplete data. CONCLUSION a small number of relatively low-powered studies showed no benefit or harm from SSRIs in terms of cognition, mood, agitation or ADLs. Large, methodologically robust studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Susan Shenkin
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK Centre for Cognitive Ageing and Cognitive Epidemiology, Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Gillian E Mead
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK Centre for Cognitive Ageing and Cognitive Epidemiology, Department of Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Magierski R, Sobow T. Serotonergic drugs for the treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia. Expert Rev Neurother 2016; 16:375-87. [PMID: 26886148 DOI: 10.1586/14737175.2016.1155453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (known also as neuropsychiatric symptoms) are essential features of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The near universal presence of neuropsychiatric symptoms in dementia (up to 90% of cases) has brought significant attention of clinicians and experts to the field. Non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions are recommended for various types of neuropsychiatric symptoms. However, most pharmacological interventions for the treatment of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia are used off-label in many countries. Cognitive decline and neuropsychiatric symptoms can be linked to alterations in multiple neurotransmitter systems, so modification of abnormalities in specific systems may improve clinical status of patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms. Use of serotonergic compounds (novel particles acting on specific receptors and widely acting drugs) in the treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radoslaw Magierski
- a Department of Old Age Psychiatry and Psychotic Disorders , Medical University of Lodz , Lodz , Poland
| | - Tomasz Sobow
- b Department of Medical Psychology , Medical University of Lodz , Lodz , Poland
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Abstract
Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) of dementia including agitation, depression, and psychosis are common and debilitating facets of the disease process. Despite the significant impact of these symptoms on both individuals with dementia and their caregivers, safe and effective treatment options are lacking. From a pharmacological approach, antipsychotics have historically been the treatment of choice, but these medications are only modestly effective with significant adverse effects. Behavioral and psychosocial interventions have been shown to be effective but are difficult to implement in routine clinical practice. SSRI medications have been investigated as an alternative psychopharmacological approach based on evidence that the serotoninergic system is involved in the etiology of NPS in dementia. The evidence base for using SSRI medications in the treatment of NPS is growing, but the applicability of research findings to the utility of SSRIs in general in routine clinical practice is not entirely clear at this point. Further studies of a variety of SSRI medications in targeting NPS are needed to make a more definitive assessment of the efficacy of these medications in the relief of NPS.
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Interventions for Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Neurocognitive Impairment Due to Alzheimer's Disease: A Review of the Literature. Harv Rev Psychiatry 2015; 23:377-93. [PMID: 26332220 DOI: 10.1097/hrp.0000000000000097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neurocognitive impairment due to Alzheimer's disease (previously termed Alzheimer's dementia) (AD) is the most common form of cognitive impairment worldwide. Given the anticipated increase in the population aged 65 and over, the prevalence of persons with AD is expected to increase exponentially during the next 30 years. Noncognitive neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) commonly occur in AD and are associated with adverse outcomes for patients and their caregivers. This review summarizes randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) published between 2004 and 2014 with a primary outcome measure of change in symptom severity for NPS in AD. Of the 388 articles initially identified through a literature search, 33 trials met inclusion criteria. Fifteen of these studies had agitation/aggression as a targeted symptom. Twenty-eight evaluated pharmacologic treatments, including psychotropics, cognitive enhancers, stimulants, and nutraceuticals. Nonpharmacologic interventions included bright light, music, exercise, and cognitive-stimulation therapies. Among the pharmacologic interventions, modest efficacy was reported with aripiprazole, citalopram, trazodone, methylphenidate, and scheduled analgesics. Significant reduction in symptom severity was reported with nearly all the nonpharmacologic interventions. Variations in methodology such as inclusion criteria, study setting, and outcome measures limit the generalizability of these results. Barriers to the implementation of nonpharmacologic interventions in clinical settings include resource and training limitations. Electroconvulsive therapy and dronabinol are promising as emerging treatment strategies. Randomized clinical trials are needed in order to validate the utility of electroconvulsive therapy and dronabinol, including where and with whom these interventions will prove most valuable.
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Woodward MC. Pharmacological Treatment of Challenging Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Dementia. JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/j.2055-2335.2005.tb00348.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Galindo-Garre F, Volicer L, van der Steen JT. Factors Related to Rejection of Care and Behaviors Directed towards Others: A Longitudinal Study in Nursing Home Residents with Dementia. Dement Geriatr Cogn Dis Extra 2015; 5:123-34. [PMID: 25999979 PMCID: PMC4439779 DOI: 10.1159/000369158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims The aim of this study was to analyze factors related to rejection of care and behaviors directed towards others in nursing home residents with dementia. Methods The relationship of lack of understanding, depression, psychosis and pain with rejection of care and behaviors directed towards others was explored using four assessments from the Minimum Data Set (MDS) within a period of 15 months on 1,101 residents with dementia in Dutch nursing homes. Presence of depressive symptoms was ascertained using a validated MDS scale, and presence of lack of understanding, rejection of care, psychosis and pain through the individual MDS items. A structural equation modeling approach and latent growth models were used to investigate the longitudinal relationship between changes in rejection of care and physical or verbal behaviors directed towards others, and changes in lack of understanding, pain, depression and psychotic symptoms. Results Changes in lack of understanding predicted changes in rejection of care, and there was also a relationship between changes in depression and rejection of care. Changes of behaviors directed towards others were related to changes in lack of understanding and depression. Pain and behaviors directed towards others were unrelated, and psychosis was rather stable throughout. A mediation model suggested that the relationship of lack of understanding with behaviors directed towards others was mediated by rejection of care. Conclusion These results indicate that lack of understanding and depression are important factors in development of rejection of care and behaviors directed towards others. The relationship between lack of understanding and behaviors directed towards others is mediated by rejection of care. Improvement in communication between residents and caregivers, and perhaps also effective treatment of depression may prevent or ameliorate these behaviors directed towards others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Galindo-Garre
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ladislav Volicer
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Fla., USA ; Charles University 3rd Medical Faculty, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jenny T van der Steen
- EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Abstract
Our objective was to determine whether a Symbol Search paradigm developed for functional magnetic resonance imaging (FMRI) is a reliable and valid measure of cognitive processing speed (CPS) in healthy older adults. As all older adults are expected to experience cognitive declines due to aging, and CPS is one of the domains most affected by age, establishing a reliable and valid measure of CPS that can be administered inside an MR scanner may prove invaluable in future clinical and research settings. We evaluated the reliability and construct validity of a newly developed FMRI Symbol Search task by comparing participants' performance in and outside of the scanner and to the widely used and standardized Symbol Search subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS). A brief battery of neuropsychological measures was also administered to assess the convergent and discriminant validity of the FMRI Symbol Search task. The FMRI Symbol Search task demonstrated high test-retest reliability when compared to performance on the same task administered out of the scanner (r=.791; p<.001). The criterion validity of the new task was supported, as it exhibited a strong positive correlation with the WAIS Symbol Search (r=.717; p<.001). Predicted convergent and discriminant validity patterns of the FMRI Symbol Search task were also observed. The FMRI Symbol Search task is a reliable and valid measure of CPS in healthy older adults and exhibits expected sensitivity to the effects of age on CPS performance.
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Escitalopram Ameliorates Forskolin-Induced Tau Hyperphosphorylation in HEK239/tau441 Cells. J Mol Neurosci 2015; 56:500-8. [PMID: 25687330 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-015-0519-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the effect of escitalopram (a widely used and highly efficacious antidepressant from the SSRI class) on tau hyperphosphorylation, HEK293/tau441 cells were pretreated with 4 μM of forskolin for 2 h. Then we treated the cells with different doses of escitalopram (0, 5, 10, 20, 40, 80 μM) for 22 h. We measured the phosphorylation level of tau by Western blotting. It was shown that escitalopram could protect tau from hyperphosphorylation induced by pharmacological activation of protein kinase A (PKA) at a dose of 20, 40, and 80 μM in vitro. Interestingly, the same dose of escitalopram could also increase the level of serine-9-phosphorylated GSK-3β (inactive form) and the phosphorylation level of Akt at Ser473 (active form) with no significant change in the level of total GSK-3β and Akt. Unexpectedly, 5-hydroxytryptamine 1A receptor (5-HT1A) agonist 8-OH-DPAT did not decrease forskolin-induced tau hyperphosphorylation. Our results suggest that escitalopram can ameliorate forskolin-induced tau hyperphosphorylation, which is not through the typical 5-HT1A pathway, and Akt/GSK-3β signaling pathway is involved. These findings may support an effective role of antidepressants in the prevention of dementia associated with depression in patients.
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The monoaminergic footprint of depression and psychosis in dementia with Lewy bodies compared to Alzheimer's disease. ALZHEIMERS RESEARCH & THERAPY 2015; 7:7. [PMID: 25717350 PMCID: PMC4339739 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-014-0090-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Depression and psychosis are two of the most severe neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Both NPS have negative effects on cognitive performance and life expectancy. The current study aimed to investigate and compare monoaminergic etiologies between both neurodegenerative conditions, given the lack of an efficient pharmacological treatment until present. Methods Eleven behaviorally relevant brain regions of the left frozen hemisphere of 10 neuropathologically confirmed AD patients with/without depression (AD + D/-D; 5 were psychotic within AD + D), 10 confirmed DLB patients, all of whom were depressed (DLB + D; 5 psychotic patients), and, finally, 10 confirmed control subjects were regionally dissected. All patients were retrospectively assessed before death using the Behavioral Pathology in Alzheimer’s Disease Rating Scale (Behave-AD) and Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia amongst others. The concentrations of dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT), (nor)adrenaline and respective metabolites, i.e. 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and homovanillic acid (HVA), 5-hydroxy-3-indoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), and, 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG), were determined using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. Results DLB subjects had the overall lowest monoamine and metabolite concentrations regarding 33 out of 41 significant monoaminergic group alterations. Moreover, MHPG levels were significantly decreased in almost 8 out of 11 brain regions of DLB- compared to AD patients. We also observed the lowest 5-HT and 5-HIAA levels, and 5-HIAA/5-HT turnover ratios in DLB + D compared to AD + D subjects. Additionally, a 4- and 7-fold increase of DOPAC/DA and HVA/DA turnover ratios, and, a 10-fold decrease of thalamic DA levels in DLB + D compared to AD + D patients and control subjects was noticed. Regarding psychosis, hippocampal DA levels in the overall DLB group significantly correlated with Behave-AD AB scores. In the total AD group, DA levels and HVA/DA ratios in the amygdala significantly correlated with Behave-AD AB scores instead. Conclusions Monoaminergic neurotransmitter alterations contribute differently to the pathophysiology of depression and psychosis in DLB as opposed to AD, with a severely decreased serotonergic neurotransmission as the main monoaminergic etiology of depression in DLB. Similarly, psychosis in DLB might, in part, be etiologically explained by dopaminergic alterations in the hippocampus, whereas in AD, the amygdala might be involved.
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Wang J, Yu JT, Wang HF, Meng XF, Wang C, Tan CC, Tan L. Pharmacological treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2015; 86:101-9. [PMID: 24876182 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2014-308112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A wide variety of pharmacological agents are used in the management of neuropsychiatric symptoms, which are common in Alzheimer's disease (AD), but results from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on the efficacy and safety of these agents are conflicting. OBJECTIVES To quantify the efficacy and safety of pharmacological treatment on neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD patients. METHODS Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs comparing pharmacological agents with placebo on Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) and safety outcomes in AD patients with neuropsychiatric symptoms. RESULTS Cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) and atypical antipsychotics improved NPI total scores (ChEIs: standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.12; 95% CI -0.23 to -0.02; atypical antipsychotics: SMD -0.21; 95% CI -0.29 to -0.12), but antidepressants (95% CI -0.35 to 0.37) and memantine (95% CI -0.27 to 0.03) did not. However, ChEIs and atypical antipsychotics increased risk of dropouts due to adverse events (ChEIs: risk ratio (RR) 1.64; 95% CI 1.12 to 2.42; atypical antipsychotics: RR 2.24; 95% CI 1.53 to 3.26) and on incidence of adverse events (ChEIs: RR 1.08; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.17; atypical antipsychotics: RR 1.17; 95% CI 1.05 to 1.31). For typical antipsychotics, no study was included. CONCLUSIONS ChEIs and atypical antipsychotics could improve neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD patients, but with bad safety outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Wang
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jin-Tai Yu
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Hui-Fu Wang
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiang-Fei Meng
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chong Wang
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Chen-Chen Tan
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lan Tan
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, School of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Qingdao, China
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Citalopram Attenuates Tau Hyperphosphorylation and Spatial Memory Deficit Induced by Social Isolation Rearing in Middle-Aged Rats. J Mol Neurosci 2014; 56:145-53. [DOI: 10.1007/s12031-014-0475-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2014] [Accepted: 11/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Buterbaugh WM, Jamrose T, Lazzara J, Honaker L, Thomas CJ. Review of antidepressants in the treatment of behavioral and psychiatric symptoms in dementia (BPSD). Ment Health Clin 2014. [DOI: 10.9740/mhc.n204508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Behavioral disturbances are commonplace among patients with dementia. Management of these symptoms has proved difficult.1,2 Currently, there are no FDA approved pharmacologic treatments for the treatment of BPSD.3 Traditionally, atypical antipsychotics have been used to treat behavioral disturbances despite modest efficacy and undesirable adverse effects.34,5 Because of the increase in mortality, there is a continued push to reduce antipsychotic utilization in this population.9,10 Thus, many clinicians are using alternative agents such as antidepressants and mood stabilizers to help treat BPSD, while avoiding using antipsychotics. The goal of this review is to review, analyze, and discuss the current literature available on the use of antidepressants to treat BPSD.
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Abstract
The NIH Toolbox (NIHTB) Pattern Comparison Processing Speed Test was developed to assess processing speed within the NIHTB for the Assessment of Neurological Behavior and Function Cognition Battery (NIHTB-CB). This study highlights validation data collected in adults ages 18-85 on this measure and reports descriptive data, test-retest reliability, construct validity, and preliminary work creating a composite index of processing speed. Results indicated good test-retest reliability. There was also evidence for both convergent and discriminant validity; the Pattern Comparison Processing Speed Test demonstrated moderate significant correlations with other processing speed tests (i.e., WAIS-IV Coding, Symbol Search and Processing Speed Index), small significant correlations with measures of working memory (i.e., WAIS-IV Letter-Number Sequencing and PASAT), and non-significant correlations with a test of vocabulary comprehension (i.e., PPVT-IV). Finally, analyses comparing and combining scores on the NIHTB Pattern Comparison Processing Speed Test with other measures of simple reaction time from the NIHTB-CB indicated that a Processing Speed Composite score performed better than any test examined in isolation. The NIHTB Pattern Comparison Processing Speed Test exhibits several strengths: it is appropriate for use across the lifespan (ages, 3-85 years), it is short and easy to administer, and it has high construct validity.
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Vermeiren Y, Van Dam D, Aerts T, Engelborghs S, De Deyn PP. Monoaminergic neurotransmitter alterations in postmortem brain regions of depressed and aggressive patients with Alzheimer's disease. Neurobiol Aging 2014; 35:2691-2700. [PMID: 24997673 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2014.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2013] [Revised: 05/27/2014] [Accepted: 05/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Depression and aggression in Alzheimer's disease (AD) are 2 of the most severe and prominent neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS). Altered monoaminergic neurotransmitter system functioning has been implicated in both NPS, although their neurochemical etiology remains to be elucidated. Left frozen hemispheres of 40 neuropathologically confirmed AD patients were regionally dissected. Dichotomization based on depression and aggression scores resulted in depressed/nondepressed (AD + D/AD - D) and aggressive/nonaggressive (AD + Agr/AD - Agr) groups. Concentrations of dopamine, serotonin (5-HT), (nor)epinephrine ((N)E), and respective metabolites were determined using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Significantly lower 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG) and higher homovanillic acid levels were observed in Brodmann area (BA) 9 and 10 of AD + D compared with AD - D. In AD + Agr, 5-hydroxy-3-indoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) levels in BA9, 5-HIAA to 5-HT ratios in BA11, and MHPG, NE, and 5-HIAA levels in the hippocampus were significantly decreased compared with AD - Agr. These findings indicate that brain region-specific altered monoamines and metabolites may contribute to the occurrence of depression and aggression in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Vermeiren
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behaviour, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Debby Van Dam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behaviour, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Tony Aerts
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behaviour, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Sebastiaan Engelborghs
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behaviour, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Department of Neurology and Memory Clinic, Hospital Network Antwerp (ZNA) Middelheim and Hoge Beuken, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Peter P De Deyn
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Behaviour, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium; Department of Neurology and Memory Clinic, Hospital Network Antwerp (ZNA) Middelheim and Hoge Beuken, Antwerp, Belgium; Department of Neurology and Alzheimer Research Center, University of Groningen and University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Groningen, the Netherlands; Biobank, Institute Born-Bunge, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.
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Serotonergic Therapies for Cognitive Symptoms in Alzheimer’s Disease: Rationale and Current Status. Drugs 2014; 74:729-36. [DOI: 10.1007/s40265-014-0217-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Xu R, Feyeux M, Julien S, Nemes C, Albrechtsen M, Dinnyés A, Krause KH. Screening of bioactive peptides using an embryonic stem cell-based neurodifferentiation assay. AAPS JOURNAL 2014; 16:400-12. [PMID: 24557747 DOI: 10.1208/s12248-014-9578-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Differentiation of pluripotent stem cells, PSCs, towards neural lineages has attracted significant attention, given the potential use of such cells for in vitro studies and for regenerative medicine. The present experiments were designed to identify bioactive peptides which direct PSC differentiation towards neural cells. Fifteen peptides were designed based on NCAM, FGFR, and growth factors sequences. The effect of peptides was screened using a mouse embryonic stem cell line expressing luciferase dual reporter construct driven by promoters for neural tubulin and for elongation factor 1. Cell number was estimated by measuring total cellular DNA. We identified five peptides which enhanced activities of both promoters without relevant changes in cell number. We selected the two most potent peptides for further analysis: the NCAM-derived mimetic FGLL and the synthetic NCAM ligand, Plannexin. Both compounds induced phenotypic neuronal differentiation, as evidenced by increased neurite outgrowth. In summary, we used a simple, but sensitive screening approach to identify the neurogenic peptides. These peptides will not only provide new clues concerning pathways of neurogenesis, but they may also be interesting biotechnology tools for in vitro generation of neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruodan Xu
- ENKAM Pharmaceuticals A/S, Copenhagen, Denmark
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