A 6-month prospective observational study on the effects of quetiapine on sexual functioning

Managing antipsychotic-related sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia

INTRODUCTION

Schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder and one of the most severe and impactful mental illnesses. Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent in patients with schizophrenia but remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Sexual dysfunction is frequently attributed to antipsychotics which may reduce medication adherence, but negative symptoms can also reduce sexual drive.

AREAS COVERED

This review provides an overview of the current knowledge about sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia. The authors first review the literature concerning the mechanisms of sexual dysfunction and explore the impact of antipsychotics on sexual function. Finally, they present the available non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment strategies for sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia.

EXPERT OPINION

Sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia is still underrated by clinicians despite having a negative impact on the quality of life and therapeutic adherence. Antipsychotic treatment is still perceived as a major cause of sexual impairment. Psychiatrists must be aware of this condition and actively question the patients. A comprehensive approach, addressing pharmacological and non-pharmacological aspects, is fundamental for managing sexual dysfunction in schizophrenia. Pharmacological strategies include (1) Serum-level adjustment of the antipsychotic dose, if possible (2) switching to a well-tolerable antipsychotic (aripiprazole, brexpiprazole) and (3) adding a coadjuvant drug (phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors).

Management Strategies for Antipsychotic-Related Sexual Dysfunction: A Clinical Approach

Antipsychotic medication can be often associated with sexual dysfunction (SD). Given its intimate nature, treatment emergent sexual dysfunction (TESD) remains underestimated in clinical practice. However, psychotic patients consider sexual issues as important as first rank psychotic symptoms, and their disenchantment with TESD can lead to important patient distress and treatment drop-out. In this paper, we detail some management strategies for TESD from a clinical perspective, ranging from prevention (carefully choosing an antipsychotic with a low rate of TESD) to possible pharmacological interventions aimed at improving patients' tolerability when TESD is present. The suggested recommendations include the following: prescribing either aripiprazole or another dopaminergic agonist as a first option antipsychotic or switching to it whenever possible. Whenever this is not possible, adjunctive treatment with aripiprazole seems to also be beneficial for reducing TESD. Some antipsychotics, like olanzapine, quetiapine, or ziprasidone, have less impact on sexual function than others, so they are an optimal second choice. Finally, a variety of useful strategies (such as the addition of sildenafil) are also described where the previous ones cannot be applied, although they may not yield as optimal results.

Pharmacological Augmentation in Unipolar Depression: A Guide to the Guidelines

BACKGROUND

Pharmacological augmentation is a recommended strategy for patients with treatment-resistant depression. A range of guidelines provide advice on treatment selection, prescription, monitoring and discontinuation, but variation in the content and quality of guidelines may limit the provision of objective, evidence-based care. This is of importance given the side effect burden and poorer long-term outcomes associated with polypharmacy and treatment-resistant depression. This review provides a definitive overview of pharmacological augmentation recommendations by assessing the quality of guidelines for depression and comparing the recommendations made.

METHODS

A systematic literature search identified current treatment guidelines for depression published in English. Guidelines were quality assessed using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II tool. Data relating to the prescription of pharmacological augmenters were extracted from those developed with sufficient rigor, and the included recommendations compared.

RESULTS

Total of 1696 records were identified, 19 guidelines were assessed for quality, and 10 were included. Guidelines differed in their quality, the stage at which augmentation was recommended, the agents included, and the evidence base cited. Lithium and atypical antipsychotics were recommended by all 10, though the specific advice was not consistent. Of the 15 augmenters identified, no others were universally recommended.

CONCLUSIONS

This review provides a comprehensive overview of current pharmacological augmentation recommendations for major depression and will support clinicians in selecting appropriate treatment guidance. Although some variation can be accounted for by date of guideline publication, and limited evidence from clinical trials, there is a clear need for greater consistency across guidelines to ensure patients receive consistent evidence-based care.

Management of Antipsychotic-Related Sexual Dysfunction: Systematic Review

INTRODUCTION

Sexual dysfunction is one of the most frequently occurring side-effects of antipsychotic medication, impacting both quality of life and adherence to treatment. Despite this, limited evidence-based guidance on treatment options is available.

AIM

To synthesize and analyze the evidence on management of antipsychotic-related sexual dysfunction, specifically taking note of the more recently developed antipsychotics that have been incorporated in studies over the past decade.

METHODS

EMBASE, Medline, and PsychINFO databases were searched using search terms related to sexual or erectile dysfunction, treatments, and antipsychotics. 2 reviewers independently assessed papers for the inclusion criteria for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of treatments for antipsychotic-related sexual dysfunction, including adjunctive medications and a switch of antipsychotic. Studies were excluded if participants did not have recorded sexual dysfunction at baseline.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

The primary outcome measure was any change in sexual function.

RESULTS

6 RCTs were identified, all of which investigated different interventions; hence, it was not possible to synthesize the data quantitatively. Results were overall limited by small sample size, brief treatment duration, and the potential for bias. 2 studies, one assessing adjunctive sildenafil and the other adjunctive aripiprazole, reported a reduction in antipsychotic-related sexual dysfunction.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Due to the lack of high-quality data, no clinical recommendations can be made.

STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS

A comprehensive search strategy was used with an extensive number of relevant search terms including "erectile dysfunction" and newer antipsychotics such as aripiprazole. In light of evidence that prolactin is not a reliable marker for sexual dysfunction, this review focused its inclusion criteria on participants presenting with sexual dysfunction rather than with hyperprolactinemia, which should give its recommendations more validity. However, only 6 RCTs were identified, and results were overall limited by small sample size, brief treatment duration, and the potential for bias.

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlight the paucity of high-quality research in this area, and conjecture that it may be difficult to recruit participants with antipsychotic-related sexual dysfunction. Future research may be necessary to unlock and address these difficulties. Furthermore, fully powered future studies should focus on the management of sexual dysfunction rather than the surrogate marker of hyperprolactinemia. Allen K, Baban A, Munjiza J, et al. Management of Antipsychotic-Related Sexual Dysfunction: Systematic Review. J Sex Med 2019;16:1978-1987.

Retrograde ejaculation associated with quetiapine and treatment with low-dose imipramine

Sexual side-effects are common among those using antipsychotic medication and may result in poor compliance and reduced quality of life. Retrograde ejaculation (RE) has been described occurring with a number of antipsychotic medications (thioridazine, risperidone, iloperidone and clozapine) but there are no guidelines regarding management of antipsychotic-associated RE. Imipramine has been suggested as a treatment for antipsychotic-associated RE in one small study of patients prescribed thioridazine and a case series of patients prescribed iloperidone. Quetiapine is a commonly used antipsychotic and is thought to be associated with less sexual side-effects relative to other antipsychotic medications. This case report describes a 25-year-old man with first episode psychosis who developed RE during treatment with quetiapine which improved with low-dose imipramine. This is the first description of RE occurring with quetiapine and successful treatment of quetiapine-associated RE with imipramine.

The impact of severe mental disorders and psychotropic medications on sexual health and its implications for clinical management

Sexual dysfunction often accompanies severe psychiatric illness and can be due to both the mental disorder itself and the use of psychotropic treatments. Many sexual symptoms resolve as the mental state improves, but treatment-related sexual adverse events tend to persist over time, and are unfortunately under-recognized by clinicians and scarcely investigated in clinical trials. Treatment-emergent sexual dysfunction adversely affects quality of life and may contribute to reduce treatment adherence. There are important differences between the various compounds in the incidence of adverse sexual effects, associated with differences in mechanisms of action. Antidepressants with a predominantly serotonergic activity, antipsychotics likely to induce hyperprolactinaemia, and mood stabilizers with hormonal effects are often linked to moderate or severe sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido, delayed orgasm, anorgasmia, and sexual arousal difficulties. Severe mental disorders can interfere with sexual function and satisfaction, while patients wish to preserve a previously satisfactory sexual activity. In many patients, a lack of intimate relationships and chronic deterioration in mental and physical health can be accompanied by either a poor sexual life or a more frequent risky sexual behaviour than in the general population. Here we describe the influence of psychosis and antipsychotic medications, of depression and antidepressant drugs, and of bipolar disorder and mood stabilizers on sexual health, and the optimal management of patients with severe psychiatric illness and sexual dysfunction.

Multidisciplinary consensus on the therapeutic recommendations for iatrogenic hyperprolactinemia secondary to antipsychotics

Hyperprolactinemia is an underappreciated/unknown adverse effects of antipsychotics. The consequences of hyperprolactinemia compromise therapeutic adherence and can be serious. We present the consensus recommendations made by a group of experts regarding the management of antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinemia. The current consensus was developed in 3 phases: 1, review of the scientific literature; 2, subsequent round table discussion to attempt to reach a consensus among the experts; and 3, review by all of the authors of the final conclusions until reaching a complete consensus. We include recommendations on the appropriate time to act after hyperprolactinemia detection and discuss the evidence on available options: decreasing the dose of the antipsychotic drug, switching antipsychotics, adding aripiprazole, adding dopaminergic agonists, and other type of treatment. The consensus also included recommendations for some specific populations such as patients with a first psychotic episode and the pediatric-youth population, bipolar disorder, personality disorders and the elderly population.

Spanish consensus on the risks and detection of antipsychotic drug-related hyperprolactinaemia

INTRODUCTION

Iatrogenic hyperprolactinaemia (IHPRL) has been more frequently related to some antipsychotic drugs that provoke an intense blockade of dopamine D2 receptors. There is a wide variation in clinical practice, and perhaps some more awareness between clinicians is needed. Due to the high frequency of chronic treatment in severe mental patients, careful attention is recommended on the physical risk. IHPRL symptoms could be underestimated without routine examination.

METHODOLOGY

An intense scientific literature search was performed in order to draw up a multidisciplinary consensus, including different specialists of psychiatry, endocrinology, oncology and internal medicine, and looking for a consensus about clinical risk and detection of IHPRL following evidence-based medicine criteria levels (EBM I- IV).

RESULTS

Short-term symptoms include amenorrhea, galactorrhoea, and sexual dysfunction with decrease of libido and erectile difficulties related to hypogonadism. Medium and long-term symptoms related to oestrogens are observed, including a decrease bone mass density, hypogonadism, early menopause, some types of cancer risk increase (breast and endometrial), cardiovascular risk increase, immune system disorders, lipids, and cognitive dysfunction. Prolactin level, gonadal hormones and vitamin D should be checked in all patients receiving antipsychotics at baseline although early symptoms (amenorrhea-galactorrhoea) may not be observed due to the risk of underestimating other delayed symptoms that may appear in the medium term. Routine examination of sexual dysfunction is recommended due to possible poor patient tolerance and low compliance. Special care is required in children and adolescents, as well as patients with PRL levels >50ng/ml (moderate hyperprolactinaemia). A possible prolactinoma should be investigated in patients with PRL levels >150ng/ml, with special attention to patients with breast/endometrial cancer history. Densitometry should be prescribed for males >50 years old, amenorrhea>6 months, or early menopause to avoid fracture risk.

Almost all antipsychotics result in weight gain: a meta-analysis

Introduction

Antipsychotics (AP) induce weight gain. However, reviews and meta-analyses generally are restricted to second generation antipsychotics (SGA) and do not stratify for duration of AP use. It is hypothesised that patients gain more weight if duration of AP use is longer.

Method

A meta-analysis was conducted of clinical trials of AP that reported weight change. Outcome measures were body weight change, change in BMI and clinically relevant weight change (7% weight gain or loss). Duration of AP-use was stratified as follows: ≤6 weeks, 6–16 weeks, 16–38 weeks and >38 weeks. Forest plots stratified by AP as well as by duration of use were generated and results were summarised in figures.

Results

307 articles met inclusion criteria. The majority were AP switch studies. Almost all AP showed a degree of weight gain after prolonged use, except for amisulpride, aripiprazole and ziprasidone, for which prolonged exposure resulted in negligible weight change. The level of weight gain per AP varied from discrete to severe. Contrary to expectations, switch of AP did not result in weight loss for amisulpride, aripiprazole or ziprasidone. In AP-naive patients, weight gain was much more pronounced for all AP.

Conclusion

Given prolonged exposure, virtually all AP are associated with weight gain. The rational of switching AP to achieve weight reduction may be overrated. In AP-naive patients, weight gain is more pronounced.

Second-generation and newly approved antipsychotics, serum prolactin levels and sexual dysfunctions: a critical literature review

INTRODUCTION

Using antipsychotic (AP) medication can increase prolactin (PRL) levels and place the patient at risk of sexual dysfunction (SD).

AREAS COVERED

The aim of this review is to describe the PRL propensity of the different second-generation and newly approved APs. It then considers the prevalence rates of SDs associated with these compounds in patients with schizophrenia and treatment strategies for the management of SDs and/or hyperprolactinemia (HPRL). Furthermore, we address the lingering question regarding the association between SDs and PRL.

EXPERT OPINION

SD (particularly long-term) data remain scarce for several APs. A wide variety of assessment techniques used in SD research make reliable comparisons between APs impossible. The majority of these reports do not equally allow us to distinguish between treatment (AP and co-medication)-emergent SDs and illness-related SDs. This makes it difficult to assess the degree to which these side effects are associated with 'PRL-raising' APs, and what part of this fraction is directly reducible to serum PRL levels. Also, few evidence-based treatment strategies for HPRL and associated side effects are available. Therefore, longer-term randomized controlled trials, using reliable and valid structured interviews or questionnaires, are necessary to establish the precise relationship between APs, PRL levels and SDs rates and develop valuable treatment options.

Subjective quality of life and sexual dysfunction in outpatients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder

The objective of this research was to examine the association between sexual dysfunction and subjective quality of life in outpatients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder. The authors evaluated a sample of 238 adult outpatients with diagnoses of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who took quetiapine, olanzapine, or risperidone at study entry with a 1-time rating of the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale and the general life satisfaction scale item of the quality of life index. The authors used multiple linear robust regression and Spearman partial correlation coefficient to examine the relation between subjective quality of life (measured by the general life satisfaction scale item) and sexual functioning (measured by the Arizona sexual experience scale). The authors found a significant negative linear relation between the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale total score and the general life satisfaction scale item for the overall sample (r(s) = -0.16, p = .01), but not separately for men or women. Sexual dysfunction in men and women with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder is associated with decreased subjective quality of life, although the magnitude of the effect size was relatively small. Improving clinicians' awareness of the importance of sexual dysfunction in patients may improve tolerability and subsequent treatment outcomes.

Adjunctive treatment with lodenafil carbonate for erectile dysfunction in outpatients with schizophrenia and spectrum: a randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled trial

INTRODUCTION.: Evidence is accumulating to support the presence of erectile dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia. This dysregulation may be amenable to therapeutic intervention to improve adherence and quality of life of patients who suffer from schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders. AIM.: We aimed to evaluate the use of adjunctive medication lodenafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in outpatients with schizophrenia and spectrum. METHODS.: The design was a randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled trial with lodenafil and it was carried at the Schizophrenia Outpatients Program. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES.: The measures used to assess sexual dysfunction were Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and the Quality of Life Scale (QLS) were also used. The measures included the levels of prolactin, estradiol, luteinizing hormone, sex hormone-binding globulin, free testosterone, and total testosterone at baseline and end point. Lodenafil and placebo pills were used by the patients for 16 weeks. RESULTS.: Fifty male outpatients fulfilled the criteria and 94% of the participants completed the study. Lodenafil and placebo produced improvement in ASEX, IIEF scale, PANSS, and QLS, and there was no statistical difference between lodenafil and placebo groups in all sexual domains in the results of PANSS and QLS and in the results of hormone levels. CONCLUSION.: These results indicate that both lodenafil and placebo were effective in the treatment of erectile dysfunction for schizophrenia. Placebo effect is very important in patients with schizophrenia and this study showed the importance of discussing sexuality and trying to treat these patients. Further studies designed to test treatments of erectile dysfunction in patients who suffer from schizophrenia are necessary.

Sexual dysfunction and hyperprolactinemia in Japanese schizophrenic patients taking antipsychotics

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction, evaluated by the Nagoya Sexual Function Questionnaire (NSFQ), and hyperprolactinemia in patients with schizophrenia and examine a relationship between sexual dysfunction and serum prolactin levels. This cross-sectional, comparative study was performed using a sample comprising 195 Japanese schizophrenic in- and outpatients treated with antipsychotics (117 males and 78 females). Data were collected from October 2009 to January 2010 using single, cross-sectional ratings of sexual function assessed by the NSFQ and concurrent measurement of serum prolactin levels. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia was high (males 66.7%; females 79.5%). Hyperprolactinemia (>25ng/ml) was highly prevalent among schizophrenia patients, affecting 53.8% of females and 51.3% of males. Among female patients, 16.7% had prolactin levels>100ng/ml. There was no relationship between sexual dysfunction and serum prolactin levels. The present study demonstrated a higher prevalence of sexual dysfunction and hyperprolactinemia in Japanese schizophrenia patients. Clinicians should keep these problems in mind and discuss potential solutions with patients to improve patients' quality of life and adherence to therapy.

Sexual dysfunction in male subjects receiving trifluoperazine, risperidone, or olanzapine: rates vary with assessment questionnaire

OBJECTIVE

To assess the rate and typology of sexual dysfunction in male subjects receiving trifluoperazine, risperidone, or olanzapine using the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX), the Psychotropic Related Sexual Dysfunction Questionnaire (PRSexDQ), and the sexual function section of the modified Udvalg for Kliniske Undersøgelser Side Effect Rating Scale (UKU).

METHOD

The sample included 100 men with psychotic disorders (F2 category of the ICD-10) and receiving trifluoperazine (n = 20), risperidone (n = 30), or olanzapine (n = 50) for at least 3 months' duration. Subjects with a history of sexual dysfunction prior to antipsychotic intake or chronic medical illness were excluded. A cross-sectional design was employed, and data were collected over a 1½-year period from March 2009 to August 2010.

RESULTS

The rate of sexual dysfunction varied from scale to scale among the 100 subjects. The rate of sexual dysfunction was 25% on the ASEX, 37% on the PRSexDQ, and 40% on the UKU. Sexual dysfunction in the trifluoperazine, risperidone, and olanzapine groups was 20%, 43%, and 16%, respectively, on the ASEX; 35%, 50%, and 30%, respectively, on the PRSexDQ; and 40%, 50%, and 34%, respectively, on the UKU. The most common sexual dysfunction as assessed on all scales was decreased libido, except for the risperidone group on the ASEX.

CONCLUSIONS

Sexual dysfunction is quite prevalent in subjects receiving antipsychotic medications. In our study, rate of sexual dysfunction was highest for risperidone, followed by trifluoperazine and olanzapine. However, the rate of sexual dysfunction varied from scale to scale. Hence, there is a need for a comprehensive instrument to assess sexual dysfunction in patients receiving antipsychotics.

Strategies for the treatment of antipsychotic-induced sexual dysfunction and/or hyperprolactinemia among patients of the schizophrenia spectrum: a review

There is limited evidence for the management of sexual dysfunction and/or hyperprolactinemia resulting from use of antipsychotics in patients with schizophrenia and spectrum. The aim of this study was to review and describe the strategies for the treatment of antipsychotic-induced sexual dysfunctions and/or hyperprolactinemia. The research was carried out through Medline/PubMed, Cochrane, Lilacs, Embase, and PsycINFO, and it included open labels or randomized clinical trials. The authors found 31 studies: 25 open-label noncontrolled studies and 6 randomized controlled clinical trials. The randomized, double-blind controlled studies that were conducted with adjunctive treatment that showed improvement of sexual dysfunction and/or decrease of prolactin levels were sildenafil and aripiprazole. The medication selegiline and cyproheptadine did not improve sexual function. The switch to quetiapine was demonstrated in 2 randomized controlled studies: 1 showed improvement in the primary outcome and the other did not. This reviewed data have suggested that further well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to provide evidence for the effects of different strategies to manage sexual dysfunction and/or hyperprolactinaemia resulting from antipsychotics. These trials are necessary in order to have a better compliance and reduce the distress among patients with schizophrenia.

Sexual self-perception in schizophrenic and depressive patients

BACKGROUND

Sexual self-perception is just one of the items of the complex system of self, which has rarely been researched in the population of mental health patients.

OBJECTIVE

Our goal was to establish whether the differences in sexual self-perception exist between schizophrenic and depressive patients compared with the healthy control group.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

This research was performed on 100 schizophrenic patients, 100 depressive patients and 100 phenotypically healthy volunteers. In order to diagnose schizophrenia and depression, DSM-IV classification was used. Bezinovic's questionnaire for sexual self-perception was used in order to assess seven aspects of sexual self-perception.

RESULTS

Results revealed that schizophrenic and depressive patients, compared with healthy individuals, scored significantly higher on the aspects of negative emotionality and sexual incompetence, and significantly lower on the aspect of sexual satisfaction. No statistically significant differences were established between schizophrenic and depressive patients.

CONCLUSION

We can conclude that patients suffering from schizophrenia or depression differ from healthy individuals in all of the aspects of sexual self-perception.

Sexual dysfunction in first-episode schizophrenia patients: results from European First Episode Schizophrenia Trial

Sexual dysfunctions (SDs) occur frequently in schizophrenia patients and have a huge impact on quality of life and compliance. They are often associated with antipsychotic medication. Nicotine consumption, negative or depressive symptoms, and physical illness are also discussed as contributing factors. Data on SD in first-episode schizophrenia patients are scarce.As part of the European First Episode Schizophrenia Trial, first-episode schizophrenia patients were randomly assigned to 5 medication groups. We assessed SD by analyzing selected items from the Udvalg for Kliniske Undersugelser at baseline and at 5 following visits.Differences between antipsychotics were small for all SDs, and fairly little change in the prevalence of SDs was seen over the course of the study. A significantly larger increase of amenorrhea and galactorrhea was seen with amisulpride than with the other medications. In men, higher age, more pronounced Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale general psychopathology symptoms, and higher plasma prolactin levels predicted higher rates of erectile and ejaculatory dysfunctions. Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale negative symptoms and higher age were predictors for decreased libido.In women, higher prolactin plasma levels were identified as a predictor of amenorrhea. Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale negative symptoms predicted decreased libido.All evidence taken together underscores the influence of the disease schizophrenia itself on sexual functioning. In addition, there is a strong correlation between the prolactin-increasing properties of amisulpride and menstrual irregularities.

Reliability and validity of a new sexual function questionnaire (Nagoya Sexual Function Questionnaire) for schizophrenic patients taking antipsychotics

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to validate a new user-friendly sexual function questionnaire (Nagoya Sexual Function Questionnaire [NSFQ]) for schizophrenic patients taking antipsychotics.

METHODS

Schizophrenic outpatients (men = 30, women = 30) were asked to fill out the NSFQ at initial entry into the research program (Time₁) and again 1 to 2 weeks later (Time₂). To assess the convergent validity of the NSFQ, at Time₁, subjects were asked to fill out the Japanese version of the Udvalg for Kliniske Undersogekser Side Effect Rating Scale (UKU). To assess the discriminant validity of the NSFQ, at Time₁, subjects were also asked to fill out the Japanese version of Epworth Sleepiness Scale.

RESULTS

Results from Cronbach's alpha analysis indicated that the NSFQ demonstrated excellent internal consistency and scale reliability. The NSFQ also demonstrated strong test-retest reliability. The NSFQ total score was highly correlated with the UKU total score. The NSFQ was shown to have good convergent validity with the UKU. The NSFQ total score was not correlated with the Japanese version of Epworth Sleepiness Scale total score.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed the internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and convergent and discriminant validities of the NSFQ.

A comparative study of the sexual function of institutionalized patients with schizophrenia

INTRODUCTION

Sexual dysfunction occurs frequently in patients with schizophrenia.

AIM

To assess the sexual function of institutionalized patients with schizophrenia and compare it to both that of noninstitutionalized schizophrenic patients as well as patients without any mental illness.

METHODS

A cross-sectional comparative analysis between three groups: Group A: 75 patients with schizophrenia and/or schizoaffective disorder according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition (ICD-10) criteria, admitted into public psychiatric residential facilities; Group B: 41 patients with the same diagnosis who live in the community; Group C: 152 patients with no mental illness attended to by a Primary Care Medical Center.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale for Schizophrenia and Changes in Sexual Function Questionnaire were used to complete the study.

RESULTS

When institutionalized patients were compared to the control group, the impairment of sexual function was identified in all areas except Arousal in women and the percentage of dysfunction in Desire-Interest for both sexes. The results for noninstitutionalized schizophrenic males indicated a deficit in Pleasure and Orgasm and in Pleasure and Desire-Frequency for females, when compared with the control group. The overall subscale indicated that 71.2% of males and 57.1% of females in the institutionalized group experienced sexual dysfunction compared with 10% of males and 50% of females in the noninstitutionalized group, and only 12.7% of women in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Most areas of sexual function are impaired among patients with schizophrenia, especially among institutionalized patients. However, their percentage of sexual dysfunction associated with sexual thoughts or fantasies was similar to that of patients without mental illness.

Sexual Function of Women with Chronic Illness and Cancer

Addressing the sexual sequelae of chronic disease and its treatment is now accepted as a fundamental part of healthcare. Most of the sexual effects of chronic disease are negative, and ongoing illness continues to modulate a woman's sexual self-image, energy and interest in sexual activity, as well as her ability to respond to sexual stimuli with pleasurable sensations, excitement, orgasm and freedom from pain with genital stimulation or intercourse. Nevertheless, for many women with chronic illness, sexuality remains extremely important despite the commonly associated fatigue and acquired sexual dysfunctions; sexual resilience can be substantial. Following recovery from cancer surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, prognosis can be excellent and a return to full health can often be expected, and yet, there may have been devastating changes to sexual function owing to the cancer treatment. Women with metastatic disease may still treasure sexual intimacy. Assessment and management of sexual dysfunction is therefore necessary in all women with chronic illness or past or present cancer.

Effect of risperidone and olanzapine on reproductive hormones, psychopathology and sexual functioning in male patients with schizophrenia

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of drugs on the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis we compared the endocrine actions of two neuroleptics with different receptor affinity profiles-risperidone and olanzapine in male schizophrenic patients.

METHODS

We investigated the levels of prolactin, estradiol, testosterone, LH, FSH and testicular peptide hormone-inhibin B, and we assessed psychopathology (PANSS), sexual function (ASEX) and treatment adherence (DAI-10) in 89 male schizophrenic inpatients treated with olanzapine or risperidone administered orally. The initial and final evaluations were carried out at weeks 3 and 8 after the onset of treatment, respectively.

RESULTS

At initial evaluation the mean serum prolactin and inhibin B levels were markedly higher, whereas testosterone level was lower in patients treated with risperidone, than in those treated with olanzapine. In 5 out of 50 subjects from risperidone group (10%) and in 1 from olanzapine group (2.6%) testosterone levels were below the lower limit (<241ng/ml), which reflected Leydig's cell impairment. In one patient receiving risperidone and in three receiving olanzapine, inhibin B level was below 80pg/ml, indicating Sertoli's cell dysfunction. At the final evaluation the mean serum prolactin level was markedly higher in patients taking risperidone, whereas their FSH levels were lower than in patients receiving olanzapine. In all investigated groups, except for the risperidone-hyperprolactinemic group inhibin B levels were negatively correlated with serum FSH. The mean LH, FSH, testosterone and estradiol levels were within the normal reference range at initial and final evaluation. The non-adherence to medications and ASEX scores were significantly higher in risperidone groups. Sexual dysfunction and medication non-adherence was not related to prolactin or gonadal hormone levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Risperidone elicited higher PRL elevation than olanzapine. Treatment with this medication can be associated with disturbances in reproductive hormones (testosterone) and gonadotropins (FSH). The cause of olanzapine-elicited reduction of inhibin B level and the lack of negative correlation between FSH and inhibin B in patients with risperidone-induced hyperprolactinemia require further investigation. Patients receiving risperidone showed higher level of sexual dysfunction and treatment non-adherence than those treated with olanzapine.

Prolactin awareness: an essential consideration for physical health in schizophrenia

Elevations in serum prolactin levels (hyperprolactinaemia) are a common side effect of conventional and some atypical antipsychotic treatments. In patients with schizophrenia, the adverse effects of antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinaemia on physical health (e.g. fertility problems, sexual dysfunction and reduced bone mineral density) are gaining attention. Accumulating evidence shows consistent 'prolactin-raising' effects of conventional antipsychotics and risperidone compared with other current atypical antipsychotics, which are more likely to have 'prolactin-sparing' properties. Prolactin-sparing antipsychotics (for example, aripiprazole and quetiapine) tend to show lower frequencies of hyperprolactinaemia-associated side effects. In recent studies, aripiprazole-treated patients have demonstrated lower prolactin levels compared with patients receiving other prolactin-sparing antipsychotics. There is a lack of robust recommendations for monitoring prolactin elevation among patients receiving antipsychotics. Decreasing the antipsychotic dose or switching to a prolactin-sparing medication are possible management options for antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinaemia. There is a need to increase awareness and understanding of the impact of antipsychotic-induced hyperprolactinaemia on physical health in schizophrenia.

Sexual dysfunction in schizophrenia: focus on recent evidence

BACKGROUND

Antipsychotic medications are known to be commonly associated with sexual dysfunction. Sexual dysfunction is estimated to affect 30-80% of patients with schizophrenia and is a major cause of poor quality of life. However, few comparative studies on the sexual dysfunction effects associated with antipsychotic medication have been published and the effects of the newer atypical antipsychotics have been largely unexamined.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to examine the latest evidence regarding the sexual function effects of different antipsychotic medications, particularly the newer prolactin-sparing drugs, quetiapine and aripiprazole, in patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective psychosis.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted within PubMed/MEDLINE using the terms risperidone, haloperidol, clozapine, olanzapine, ziprasidone, quetiapine, aripiprazole; sexual dysfunction; schizophrenia. The results were limited to studies published since 2002.

RESULTS

Recently published studies show that the relative impact of antipsychotics on sexual dysfunction can be summarised as risperidone > typical antipsychotics (haloperidol) > olanzapine > quetiapine > aripiprazole.

CONCLUSIONS

The availability of prolactin-sparing antipsychotics should enable psychiatrists to consider and manage proactively the sexual function consequences of pharmacological intervention, thereby improving sexual side effects, which may lead to improved treatment adherence and psychiatric outcome in patients with schizophrenia.

Sexual dysfunction in schizophrenia

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Sexual dysfunctions have been described as being common in schizophrenia patients. The pathophysiology behind their development remains unclear. They can be secondary to the disease itself or an adverse event of antipsychotic medication. Therapeutic interventions are also not well studied.

RECENT FINDINGS

Earlier work has suggested that second-generation antipsychotics bear fewer risks for developing sexual dysfunction because of a lower propensity to elevate prolactin levels, although the latter does not apply to amisulpride and risperidone. Only a few controlled trials with larger patient samples have been performed in the past.

SUMMARY

The review covers studies published from March 2005 to June 2006 focusing on sexual dysfunctions in schizophrenia patients, as well as their possible causes. Treatment options and the impact of sexual dysfunction on quality of life are also covered. The reviewed papers show no clear consistency regarding potential advantages of one drug over another. Many trials suffer from small sample sizes. The field badly needs more and larger studies on this topic.

Pharmacological effects on sexual function

Many drugs may have effects on sexual function. Sexual function is complex and psychological and relationship issues are likely to have greater impacts on sexual function in women than drugs. Although it is important to understand the effects of drugs on sexual function, physicians should use caution in "medicalization" of sexual function in women [106].

The "Seroquel" Outcomes Study (SOS): Efficacy and tolerability of quetiapine in a long-term, naturalistic study of patients with schizophrenia

Objective. The "Seroquel" Outcomes Study (SOS) aimed to assess the efficacy and tolerability of quetiapine in patients with schizophrenia in the clinical practice setting. Methods. A 6-month, non-comparative, open-label study in adults with schizophrenia in a standard care setting in Spain. Outpatients received flexibly dosed quetiapine. Efficacy was evaluated using the Brief Psychiatry Rating Scale (BPRS) and the Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scale. BPRS response was defined as≥30% decrease from baseline. Tolerability was assessed using the Simpson-Angus Scale (SAS) and a modified Udvalg for Kliniske Undersogelser (UKU) side-effects scale. Results. A total of 2029 patients enrolled. Significant changes from baseline to Month 6 were recorded for BPRS total and subscale scores (P<0.001). Compared with doses of≥600 mg/day, doses of<400 mg/day were a strong predictor of a lower response rate (OR 0.62; 95% CI: 0.48, 0.82) and higher withdrawal rate (OR 3.3; 95% CI: 2.5, 4.4). Mean change in weight was minimal (+0.4 kg). Somnolence (26.7%), asthenia (12.5%), and constipation (9.8%) were the most common adverse events. Conclusion. Quetiapine was found to improve symptoms of schizophrenia, as indicated by a significant decrease in BPRS scores, and was well tolerated by patients in clinical practice.

Quetiapine: efficacy, tolerability and safety in schizophrenia

Quetiapine, a dibenzothiazepine derivative, is an atypical antipsychotic, multireceptor antagonist that has a preclinical profile similar to clozapine. Randomized studies have demonstrated the efficacy of quetiapine relative to placebo in the treatment of acute relapse and the long-term management of schizophrenia. Quetiapine is generally well tolerated relative to other antipsychotic medications, although side effects include sedation, orthostatic hypotension, anticholinergic and metabolic side effects. The purpose of this article is to critically review the current literature on quetiapine with an emphasis on emergent themes and key findings in the use of this agent for the treatment of schizophrenia. There are also continued efforts to understand, predict and manage the side-effect risk with quetiapine.