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Bernardo J, Valentão P. Herb-drug interactions: A short review on central and peripheral nervous system drugs. Phytother Res 2024; 38:1903-1931. [PMID: 38358734 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Herbal medicines are widely perceived as natural and safe remedies. However, their concomitant use with prescribed drugs is a common practice, often undertaken without full awareness of the potential risks and frequently without medical supervision. This practice introduces a tangible risk of herb-drug interactions, which can manifest as a spectrum of consequences, ranging from acute, self-limited reactions to unpredictable and potentially lethal scenarios. This review offers a comprehensive overview of herb-drug interactions, with a specific focus on medications targeting the Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems. Our work draws upon a broad range of evidence, encompassing preclinical data, animal studies, and clinical case reports. We delve into the intricate pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics underpinning each interaction, elucidating the mechanisms through which these interactions occur. One pressing issue that emerges from this analysis is the need for updated guidelines and sustained pharmacovigilance efforts. The topic of herb-drug interactions often escapes the attention of both consumers and healthcare professionals. To ensure patient safety and informed decision-making, it is imperative that we address this knowledge gap and establish a framework for continued monitoring and education. In conclusion, the use of herbal remedies alongside conventional medications is a practice replete with potential hazards. This review not only underscores the real and significant risks associated with herb-drug interactions but also underscores the necessity for greater awareness, research, and vigilant oversight in this often-overlooked domain of healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Bernardo
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Valentão
- REQUIMTE/LAQV, Laboratório de Farmacognosia, Departamento de Química, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Jomova K, Raptova R, Alomar SY, Alwasel SH, Nepovimova E, Kuca K, Valko M. Reactive oxygen species, toxicity, oxidative stress, and antioxidants: chronic diseases and aging. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:2499-2574. [PMID: 37597078 PMCID: PMC10475008 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-023-03562-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 71.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
A physiological level of oxygen/nitrogen free radicals and non-radical reactive species (collectively known as ROS/RNS) is termed oxidative eustress or "good stress" and is characterized by low to mild levels of oxidants involved in the regulation of various biochemical transformations such as carboxylation, hydroxylation, peroxidation, or modulation of signal transduction pathways such as Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade, phosphoinositide-3-kinase, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and other processes. Increased levels of ROS/RNS, generated from both endogenous (mitochondria, NADPH oxidases) and/or exogenous sources (radiation, certain drugs, foods, cigarette smoking, pollution) result in a harmful condition termed oxidative stress ("bad stress"). Although it is widely accepted, that many chronic diseases are multifactorial in origin, they share oxidative stress as a common denominator. Here we review the importance of oxidative stress and the mechanisms through which oxidative stress contributes to the pathological states of an organism. Attention is focused on the chemistry of ROS and RNS (e.g. superoxide radical, hydrogen peroxide, hydroxyl radicals, peroxyl radicals, nitric oxide, peroxynitrite), and their role in oxidative damage of DNA, proteins, and membrane lipids. Quantitative and qualitative assessment of oxidative stress biomarkers is also discussed. Oxidative stress contributes to the pathology of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, neurological disorders (Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, Down syndrome), psychiatric diseases (depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder), renal disease, lung disease (chronic pulmonary obstruction, lung cancer), and aging. The concerted action of antioxidants to ameliorate the harmful effect of oxidative stress is achieved by antioxidant enzymes (Superoxide dismutases-SODs, catalase, glutathione peroxidase-GPx), and small molecular weight antioxidants (vitamins C and E, flavonoids, carotenoids, melatonin, ergothioneine, and others). Perhaps one of the most effective low molecular weight antioxidants is vitamin E, the first line of defense against the peroxidation of lipids. A promising approach appears to be the use of certain antioxidants (e.g. flavonoids), showing weak prooxidant properties that may boost cellular antioxidant systems and thus act as preventive anticancer agents. Redox metal-based enzyme mimetic compounds as potential pharmaceutical interventions and sirtuins as promising therapeutic targets for age-related diseases and anti-aging strategies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Jomova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Nitra, 949 74, Slovakia
| | - Renata Raptova
- Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Bratislava, 812 37, Slovakia
| | - Suliman Y Alomar
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh H Alwasel
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eugenie Nepovimova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Hradec Kralove, 50005, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Kuca
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Hradec Kralove, 50005, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Marian Valko
- Faculty of Chemical and Food Technology, Slovak University of Technology, Bratislava, 812 37, Slovakia.
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De Simone G, Mazza B, Vellucci L, Barone A, Ciccarelli M, de Bartolomeis A. Schizophrenia Synaptic Pathology and Antipsychotic Treatment in the Framework of Oxidative and Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Translational Highlights for the Clinics and Treatment. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040975. [PMID: 37107350 PMCID: PMC10135787 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a worldwide mental illness characterized by alterations at dopaminergic and glutamatergic synapses resulting in global dysconnectivity within and between brain networks. Impairments in inflammatory processes, mitochondrial functions, energy expenditure, and oxidative stress have been extensively associated with schizophrenia pathophysiology. Antipsychotics, the mainstay of schizophrenia pharmacological treatment and all sharing the common feature of dopamine D2 receptor occupancy, may affect antioxidant pathways as well as mitochondrial protein levels and gene expression. Here, we systematically reviewed the available evidence on antioxidants' mechanisms in antipsychotic action and the impact of first- and second-generation compounds on mitochondrial functions and oxidative stress. We further focused on clinical trials addressing the efficacy and tolerability of antioxidants as an augmentation strategy of antipsychotic treatment. EMBASE, Scopus, and Medline/PubMed databases were interrogated. The selection process was conducted in respect of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) criteria. Several mitochondrial proteins involved in cell viability, energy metabolism, and regulation of oxidative systems were reported to be significantly modified by antipsychotic treatment with differences between first- and second-generation drugs. Finally, antioxidants may affect cognitive and psychotic symptoms in patients with schizophrenia, and although the evidence is only preliminary, the results indicate that further studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe De Simone
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences, and Dentistry, University Medical School of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Benedetta Mazza
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences, and Dentistry, University Medical School of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Licia Vellucci
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences, and Dentistry, University Medical School of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Annarita Barone
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences, and Dentistry, University Medical School of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Mariateresa Ciccarelli
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences, and Dentistry, University Medical School of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea de Bartolomeis
- Section of Psychiatry, Laboratory of Translational and Molecular Psychiatry and Unit of Treatment-Resistant Psychosis, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences, and Dentistry, University Medical School of Naples "Federico II", Via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
- UNESCO Chair on Health Education and Sustainable Development, University of Naples "Federico II", 80131 Naples, Italy
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Hurşitoğlu O, Orhan FÖ, Kurutaş EB, Doğaner A, Durmuş HT, Kopar H. Diagnostic Performance of Increased Malondialdehyde Level and Oxidative Stress in Patients with Schizophrenia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 58:184-188. [PMID: 34526839 PMCID: PMC8419726 DOI: 10.29399/npa.27372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Schizophrenia is typically diagnosed through interviews with patients and their relatives. Thus, molecular biomarkers for this mental illness have recently become a hot topic for research. Oxidative stress and antioxidant parameters, such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA), have been investigated in schizophrenia; however, no studies have been conducted on the diagnostic performance of oxidative parameters. The goal of the present study is to examine the serum levels of SOD, CAT and MDA and to test the diagnostic performance of MDA in patients with schizophrenia. Methods: Thirty patients with schizophrenia and 30 healthy gender– and age-matched controls were included in our study. Symptom severity in the patient group was rated using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Results: The serum levels of MDA, SOD and CAT were found to be significantly increased in patients with schizophrenia compared to the control group. A receiver operating characteristic curve showed a cut-off point of 2.72 nmol/ml for the MDA diagnostic measure. No significant correlation was found (p>0.05) between MDA, SOD and CAT activity and PANSS scores or the chlorpromazine equivalent and clinical characteristics. Conclusion: In summary, we found higher serum levels of SOD, CAT and MDA in patients with schizophrenia compared to healthy controls. MDA is considered a very good diagnostic lipid peroxidation marker, and further studies should be done to test its validity in patients with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onur Hurşitoğlu
- Department of Psychiatry, Kahramanmaraş Necip Fazıl City Hospital, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Fatma Özlem Orhan
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Ergül Belge Kurutaş
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Adem Doğaner
- Department of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin Toygun Durmuş
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
| | - Hatice Kopar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
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Shi XJ, Fan FC, Liu H, Ai YW, Liu QS, Jiao YG, Cheng Y. Traditional Chinese Medicine Decoction Combined With Antipsychotic for Chronic Schizophrenia Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:616088. [PMID: 33708122 PMCID: PMC7942273 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.616088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite several studies suggesting the effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in schizophrenia, there is still a lack of systematic summary and analysis on the role of TCM as adjuvant therapy in chronic schizophrenia. For this purpose, we conducted a meta-analysis to study the efficacy of TCM as an adjuvant combined with antipsychotics in the treatment of chronic schizophrenia. Until April 2020, based on the review of six electronic databases, eight articles were selected. The articles compared TCM decoction assisted antipsychotic therapies with an antipsychotic alone in the treatment of chronic schizophrenia by analyzing a total of 810 cases. The results showed that TCM combined with antipsychotics have beneficial effects on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), including the changes in total score, negative score, and the clinical effects evaluated by the PANSS scale. Subgroup analysis showed that the effects of auxiliary TCM with different efficacy on the positive and psychopathological scores were significantly different. It was found that adjuvant treatment with TCM can reduce some side effects and improve the patient's living conditions in the evaluation of the Schizophrenia Quality Of Life Scale (SQLS). Many studies have proved that TCM is safe and well-tolerated. Although the difficulties of using limited TCM remains to be generalized, it still has great potential in the adjuvant treatment of chronic schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jie Shi
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Fang-Cheng Fan
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Liu
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Yang-Wen Ai
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Qing-Shan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Guo Jiao
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Yong Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, Center on Translational Neuroscience, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China.,College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
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Abstract
Patients with psychotic disorders regularly use natural medicines, although it is unclear whether these are effective and safe. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of evidence for improved outcomes by natural medicines. A systematic literature search was performed through Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Cochrane until May 2015. In 110 randomized controlled trials, evidence was found for glycine, sarcosine, N-acetylcysteine, some Chinese and ayurvedic herbs, ginkgo biloba, estradiol, and vitamin B6 to improve psychotic symptoms when added to antipsychotics. Ginkgo biloba and vitamin B6 seemed to reduce tardive dyskinesia and akathisia. Results on other compounds were negative or inconclusive. All natural agents, except reserpine, were well tolerated. Most study samples were small, study periods were generally short, and most results need replication. However, there is some evidence for beneficial effects of certain natural medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- H.J. Rogier Hoenders
- *Lentis, Center for Integrative Psychiatry; †University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, University Center for Psychiatry, Rob Giel Research Center; ‡Lentis Mental Health Institution; §University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Neuroimaging Center; ∥University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; and ¶Boston School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Agna A. Bartels-Velthuis
- *Lentis, Center for Integrative Psychiatry; †University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, University Center for Psychiatry, Rob Giel Research Center; ‡Lentis Mental Health Institution; §University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Neuroimaging Center; ∥University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; and ¶Boston School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nina K. Vollbehr
- *Lentis, Center for Integrative Psychiatry; †University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, University Center for Psychiatry, Rob Giel Research Center; ‡Lentis Mental Health Institution; §University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Neuroimaging Center; ∥University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; and ¶Boston School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Richard Bruggeman
- *Lentis, Center for Integrative Psychiatry; †University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, University Center for Psychiatry, Rob Giel Research Center; ‡Lentis Mental Health Institution; §University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Neuroimaging Center; ∥University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; and ¶Boston School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Henderikus Knegtering
- *Lentis, Center for Integrative Psychiatry; †University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, University Center for Psychiatry, Rob Giel Research Center; ‡Lentis Mental Health Institution; §University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Neuroimaging Center; ∥University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; and ¶Boston School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Joop T.V.M. de Jong
- *Lentis, Center for Integrative Psychiatry; †University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, University Center for Psychiatry, Rob Giel Research Center; ‡Lentis Mental Health Institution; §University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Neuroimaging Center; ∥University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; and ¶Boston School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
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Patel S, Sharma D, Kalia K, Tiwari V. Crosstalk between endoplasmic reticulum stress and oxidative stress in schizophrenia: The dawn of new therapeutic approaches. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 83:589-603. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Revised: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Abstract
Schizophrenia is a chronic and debilitating mental disorder. The persisting negative and cognitive symptoms that are unresponsive to pharmacotherapy reveal the impairment of neuroprotective aspects of schizophrenia. In this review, of the several neuroprotective factors, we mainly focused on neuroinflammation, neurogenesis, and oxidative stress. We conducted a narrative and selective review. Neuroinflammation is mainly mediated by pro-inflammatory cytokines and microglia. Unlike peripheral inflammatory responses, neuroinflammation has a role in various neuronal activities such as neurotransmission neurogenesis. The cross-talk between neuroinflammation and neurogenesis usually has beneficial effects in the CNS under physiological conditions. However, uncontrolled and chronic neuroinflammation exert detrimental effects such as neuronal loss, inhibited neurogenesis, and excessive oxidative stress. Neurogenesis is also a major component of neuroprotection. Adult neurogenesis mainly occurs in the hippocampal region, which has an important role in memory formation and processing. Impaired neurogenesis and an ineffective response to antipsychotics may be thought to indicate a deteriorating course of schizophrenia. Oxidative stress and excessive dopaminergic neurotransmission may create a vicious cycle and consequently disturb NMDA receptor-mediated glutamatergic neurotransmission. Based on the current evidences, several neuroprotective therapeutic approaches have been reported to be efficacious for improving psychopathology, but further longitudinal and large-sample based studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Ku Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoung-Sae Na
- Department of Psychiatry, Gachon University Gil Medical Center, Incheon, Republic of Korea
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Shi J, Tan YL, Wang ZR, An HM, Li J, Wang YC, Lv MH, Yan SX, Wu JQ, Soares JC, De Yang F, Zhang XY. Ginkgo biloba and vitamin E ameliorate haloperidol-induced vacuous chewingmovement and brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in a rat tardive dyskinesia model. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2016; 148:53-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2016.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2016] [Revised: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND There is accumulating evidence that progressive changes in brain structure and function take place as schizophrenia unfolds. Among many possible candidates, oxidative stress may be one of the mediators of neuroprogression, grey matter loss and subsequent cognitive and functional impairment. Antioxidants are exogenous or endogenous molecules that mitigate any form of oxidative stress or its consequences. They may act from directly scavenging free radicals to increasing anti-oxidative defences. There is evidence that current treatments impact oxidative pathways and may to some extent reverse pro-oxidative states in schizophrenia. The existing literature, however, indicates that these treatments do not fully restore the deficits in antioxidant levels or restore levels of oxidants in schizophrenia. As such, there has been interest in developing interventions aimed at restoring this oxidative balance beyond the benefits of antipsychotics in this direction. If antioxidants are to have a place in the treatment of this serious condition, the relevant and up-to-date information should be available to clinicians and investigators. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effect of antioxidants as add-on treatments to standard antipsychotic medication for improving acute psychotic episodes and core symptoms, and preventing relapse in people with schizophrenia. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Schizophrenia Group's Study-Based Register of Trials which is based on regular searches of CINAHL, BIOSIS, AMED, Embase, PubMed, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and registries of clinical trials. There are no language, time, document type, or publication status limitations for inclusion of records in the register. We ran this search in November 2010, and again on 8 January 2015. We also inspected references of all identified studies for further trials and contacted authors of trials for additional information. SELECTION CRITERIA We included reports if they were randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving people with schizophrenia who had been allocated to either a substance with antioxidant potential or to a placebo as an adjunct to standard antipsychotic treatment. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We independently extracted data from these trials and we estimated risk ratios (RR) or mean differences (MD), with 95% confidence intervals (CI). We assessed risk of bias for included studies and created a 'Summary of findings' table using GRADE. MAIN RESULTS The review includes 22 RCTs of varying quality and sample size studying Ginkgo biloba, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), allopurinol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), vitamin C, vitamin E or selegiline. Median follow-up was eight weeks. Only three studies including a minority of the participants reported our a priori selected primary outcome of clinically important response. Short-term data for this outcome (measured as at least 20% improvement in scores on Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS)) were similar (3 RCTs, n = 229, RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.12, low quality evidence). Studies usually reported only endpoint psychopathology rating scale scores. Psychotic symptoms were lower in those using an adjunctive antioxidant according to the PANSS ( 7 RCTS, n = 584, MD -6.00, 95% CI -10.35 to -1.65, very low quality evidence) and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) (8 RCTS, n = 843, MD -3.20, 95% CI -5.63 to -0.78, low quality evidence). There was no overall short-term difference in leaving the study early (16 RCTs, n = 1584, RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.48 to 1.11, moderate quality evidence), or in general functioning (2 RCTs, n = 52, MD -1.11, 95% CI -8.07 to 5.86, low quality evidence). Adverse events were generally poorly reported. Three studies reported useable data for 'any serious adverse effect', results were equivocal (3 RCTs, n = 234, RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.19 to 2.27, low quality evidence). No evidence was available for relapse, quality of life or service use. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Although 22 trials could be included in this review, the evidence provided is limited and mostly not relevant to clinicians or consumers. Overall, although there was low risk of attrition and selective data reporting bias within the trials, the trials themselves were not adequately powered and need more substantial follow-up periods. There is a need for larger trials with longer periods of follow-up to be conducted. Outcomes should be meaningful for those with schizophrenia, and include measures of improvement and relapse (not just rating scale scores), functioning and quality of life and acceptability and, importantly, safety data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro V S Magalhães
- Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 2350, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil, 90035-903
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An HM, Tan YL, Shi J, Wang ZR, Li J, Wang YC, Lv MH, Zhou DF, Soares JC, Kosten TR, Yang FD, Zhang XY. Beneficial effects of EGb761 and vitamin E on haloperidol-induced vacuous chewing movements in rats: Possible involvement of S100B mechanisms. Behav Brain Res 2016; 297:124-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2015.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2015] [Revised: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Chen X, Hong Y, Zheng P. Efficacy and safety of extract of Ginkgo biloba as an adjunct therapy in chronic schizophrenia: A systematic review of randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies with meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res 2015; 228:121-7. [PMID: 25980333 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2015.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2014] [Revised: 03/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Our study was to review and evaluate the efficacy and safety of extract of Gb (EGb) as an adjuvant therapy to antipsychotics in chronic schizophrenia treatment. We searched Pubmed/Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, the Cochrane library, and especially the Chinese periodical databases. Finally, eight randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) of 1033 patients were enrolled, with 571 cases in EGb group and 462 in placebo. The result showed that EGb had a significant difference in ameliorating total and negative symptoms of chronic schizophrenia as an adjuvant therapy to antipsychotics. Thus, the EGb therapy plus antipsychotics might be more efficacious. Although the studies describing adverse reactions showed no distinguishable difference between EGb and placebo group in mean total scores of Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale (TESS) or a Rating Scale for Extrapyramidal Side Effects (RSESE), the results of subscores varied in different studies. In addition, the severity of side effects of EGb might be related to its daily dosage. Therefore, the safety of EGb therapy in chronic schizophrenia treatment might need more evidence. And all of these eight trials were carried out in China; thus, the results might be restricted to the race and we need more high-quality studies of multi-center and randomized double-blind clinical trials to compare, analyze, and confirm the findings further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xichuang Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Wuxi No. 9 People׳s Hospital, Soochow University & Wuxi Hand Surgery Hospital, Liangxi Road 999, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214062, China.
| | - Yuan Hong
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Wuxi Children׳s Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214023, China.
| | - Panpan Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, Ningbo No. 6 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315450, China
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Leza JC, García-Bueno B, Bioque M, Arango C, Parellada M, Do K, O'Donnell P, Bernardo M. Inflammation in schizophrenia: A question of balance. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 55:612-26. [PMID: 26092265 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Revised: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
In the past decade, there has been renewed interest in immune/inflammatory changes and their associated oxidative/nitrosative consequences as key pathophysiological mechanisms in schizophrenia and related disorders. Both brain cell components (microglia, astrocytes, and neurons) and peripheral immune cells have been implicated in inflammation and the resulting oxidative/nitrosative stress (O&NS) in schizophrenia. Furthermore, down-regulation of endogenous antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms has been identified in biological samples from patients, although the degree and progression of the inflammatory process and the nature of its self-regulatory mechanisms vary from early onset to full-blown disease. This review focuses on the interactions between inflammation and O&NS, their damaging consequences for brain cells in schizophrenia, the possible origins of inflammation and increased O&NS in the disorder, and current pharmacological strategies to deal with these processes (mainly treatments with anti-inflammatory or antioxidant drugs as add-ons to antipsychotics).
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan C Leza
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Complutense University, Madrid, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IIS) Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Borja García-Bueno
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Complutense University, Madrid, Spain; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria (IIS) Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miquel Bioque
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Complutense University, Madrid, Spain; Barcelona Clínic Schizophrenia Unit, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Celso Arango
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Complutense University, Madrid, Spain; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain; Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, IIS Hospital Gregorio Marañón (IISGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Mara Parellada
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Complutense University, Madrid, Spain; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain; Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, IIS Hospital Gregorio Marañón (IISGM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Kim Do
- Center for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Miguel Bernardo
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Complutense University, Madrid, Spain; Barcelona Clínic Schizophrenia Unit, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
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Lerner PP, Miodownik C, Lerner V. Tardive dyskinesia (syndrome): Current concept and modern approaches to its management. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2015; 69:321-34. [PMID: 25556809 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.12270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2014] [Revised: 11/15/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Tardive dyskinesia is a serious, disabling and potentially permanent, neurological hyperkinetic movement disorder that occurs after months or years of taking psychotropic drugs. The pathophysiology of tardive dyskinesia is complex, multifactorial and still not fully understood. A number of drugs were tried for the management of this motor disturbance, yet until now no effective and standard treatment has been found. It is very disappointing to realize that the introduction of antipsychotics from the second generation has not significantly decreased the prevalence and incidence of tardive dyskinesia. Therefore, the management of this motor disturbance remains an actual topic as well as a challenge for clinicians. This review summarizes recent relevant publications concerning the treatment of tardive dyskinesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul P Lerner
- Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Tsfat, Israel
| | - Chanoch Miodownik
- Be'er-Sheva Mental Health Center, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva, Israel
| | - Vladimir Lerner
- Be'er-Sheva Mental Health Center, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva, Israel
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Shiina A, Kanahara N, Sasaki T, Oda Y, Hashimoto T, Hasegawa T, Yoshida T, Iyo M, Hashimoto K. An Open Study of Sulforaphane-rich Broccoli Sprout Extract in Patients with Schizophrenia. Clin Psychopharmacol Neurosci 2015; 13:62-7. [PMID: 25912539 PMCID: PMC4423155 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2015.13.1.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective Schizophrenia is a mental disorder characterized by severe cognitive impairment. Accumulating evidence suggests a role for oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Sulforaphane (SFN) extracted from broccoli sprout is an agent with potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. In this study, we attempted to evaluate the effect of SFN on cognitive impairment in medicated patients with schizophrenia. Methods We recruited a total of 10 outpatients with schizophrenia, all of whom gave informed consent. Participants took 3 tablets of SFN, consisting of 30 mg of SFN-glucosinolate per day, for 8 weeks. Clinical symptoms using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and cognitive function using the Japanese version of CogState battery were evaluated at the beginning of the study and at week 8. Results A total of 7 patients completed the trial. The mean score in the Accuracy component of the One Card Learning Task increased significantly after the trial. However, we detected no other significant changes in participants. Conclusion This result suggests that SFN has the potential to improve cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiro Shiina
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan.,Division of Law and Psychiatry, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| | - Nobuhisa Kanahara
- Division of Medical Treatment and Rehabilitation, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Sasaki
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yasunori Oda
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tasuku Hashimoto
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tadashi Hasegawa
- Department of Psychiatry, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | | | - Masaomi Iyo
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.,Department of Psychiatry, Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan.,Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, 8Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
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Zhang XY, Chen DC, Tan YL, Tan SP, Wang ZR, Yang FD, Okusaga OO, Zunta-Soares GB, Soares JC. The interplay between BDNF and oxidative stress in chronic schizophrenia. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2015; 51:201-8. [PMID: 25462893 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2014] [Revised: 09/06/2014] [Accepted: 09/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Neurodegenerative processes may be involved in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), the most widely distributed neurotrophin and oxidative stress (OS) may be critical for several pathological manifestations of neurodegenerative disorders. Accumulating evidence suggests that both BDNF and OS may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. However, the possible interaction between BDNF and OS has been under-investigated. Serum BDNF, plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and catalase (CAT) activities were analyzed using established procedures in 164 chronic medicated schizophrenia and 50 healthy controls. Schizophrenic symptoms were assessed by the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) with cognitive and depressive factors derived from the five factor model of the PANSS. Compared to the control group, the patients exhibited a significant decrease in BDNF levels, in the activities of SOD and GSH-Px but a significant increase in MDA levels. In patients, but not in controls, we observed a significant negative correlation between BDNF and SOD. Furthermore, the interaction between BDNF and CAT was associated with the PANSS cognitive factor, and the interaction between BDNF and GSH-Px with the PANSS depressive factor. Both decreased BDNF levels and OS may be implicated in the pathophysiology of chronic schizophrenia. Their inverse association only in the schizophrenia group may reflect a pathological mechanism involving an interaction of oxidative damage and neurotrophin dysfunction. Moreover, OS may interact with the BDNF system to influence the clinical symptoms and cognitive impairment in schizophrenia, which is line with the neurodevelopmental hypothesis of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yang Zhang
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Harris County Psychiatric Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Da-Chun Chen
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yun-Long Tan
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shu-Ping Tan
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-Ren Wang
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Fu-De Yang
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Olaoluwa O Okusaga
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Harris County Psychiatric Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Giovana B Zunta-Soares
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Harris County Psychiatric Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jair C Soares
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Harris County Psychiatric Center, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Schizophrenia is a chronic illness having varied etiology which affects cognition, emotion, perception, and other aspects of behavior. There are data which show possible role of oxidative stress and disturbance in antioxidant mechanisms in various neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifty drug-naive schizophrenic patients, who attended psychiatry outpatient department/inpatient department for the 1(st) time, were selected and compared with 50 age-sex matched healthy controls. The erythrocyte level of malondialdehyde (MDA) - a lipid peroxidation product and marker of oxidative stress, antioxidant enzymes - superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) was estimated. We also correlated the sociodemographic parameters and severity of illness (positive and negative syndrome scale score) with oxidative stress (MDA) and level of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GPX). RESULTS The level of oxidative stress (MDA) was increased, and the levels of antioxidative enzymes (GPX and SOD) were decreased in schizophrenic patients as compared to normal healthy controls and the difference was statistically significant. No significant relationships of age, sex, educational status, marital status, and PANNS score with oxidative stress (MDA) and antioxidative enzymes (GPX and SOD) level in schizophrenic patients was found; but there was significant relationship of locality with oxidative stress (MDA) and antioxidative enzymes (GPX and SOD) level in schizophrenic patients was found. Urban population have a higher level of MDA, GPX, and SOD than the rural population. CONCLUSION Our findings put great emphasis on the weak pro/antioxidant defense mechanisms and its role in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. We can make recommendations of dietary nutritional supplementation and adjunct antioxidants therapy with antipsychotics to treat schizophrenics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Reyazuddin
- Department of Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Suhail A Azmi
- Department of Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Najmul Islam
- Department of Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abid Rizvi
- Department of Psychiatry, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Misiak B, Frydecka D, Zawadzki M, Krefft M, Kiejna A. Refining and integrating schizophrenia pathophysiology – Relevance of the allostatic load concept. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2014; 45:183-201. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2014.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2013] [Revised: 04/02/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) including Alzheimer's and Huntington's diseases have had associations with the oxidative process and free radical damage. Consequently, in past decades, several natural and synthetic antioxidants have been assessed as therapeutic agents but have shown limitations in bioavailability, metabolic susceptibility and permeability to the blood brain barrier. Given these issues, medicinal chemists are hard at work to modify/improve the chemical structures of these antioxidants, thereby improving their efficacy. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors critically analyze several biological mechanisms involved in the generation of free radicals. Additionally, they analyze free radicals' role in the generation of oxidative stress and in the progression of many NDs. Further, the authors review a collection of natural and synthetic antioxidants, their role as free radical scavengers along with their mechanisms of action and their potential for preventing neurodegenerative diseases. EXPERT OPINION So far, preclinical studies on several antioxidants have shown promise for treating NDs, despite their limitations. The authors do highlight the lack of the adequate animal models for preclinical assessment and this does hinder further progression into clinical trials. Further studies are necessary to fully investigate the potential of these antioxidants as ND therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chhanda Charan Danta
- Panjab University, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences , Chandigarh-160014 , India
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Haloperidol was developed in the late 1950s for use in the field of anaesthesia. Research subsequently demonstrated effects on hallucinations, delusions, aggressiveness, impulsiveness and states of excitement and led to the introduction of haloperidol as an antipsychotic. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the clinical effects of haloperidol for the management of schizophrenia and other similar serious mental illnesses compared with placebo. SEARCH METHODS Initially, we electronically searched the databases of Biological Abstracts (1985-1998), CINAHL (1982-1998), The Cochrane Library (1998, Issue 4), The Cochrane Schizophrenia Group's Register (December 1998), EMBASE (1980-1998), MEDLINE (1966-1998), PsycLIT (1974-1998), and SCISEARCH. We also checked references of all identified studies for further trial citations and contacted the authors of trials and pharmaceutical companies for further information and archive material.For the 2012 update, on 15 May 2012, we searched the Cochrane Schizophrenia Group's Trials Register. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all relevant randomised controlled trials comparing the use of haloperidol (any oral dose) with placebo for those with schizophrenia or other similar serious, non-affective psychotic illnesses (however diagnosed). Our main outcomes of interest were death, loss to follow-up, clinical and social response, relapse and severity of adverse effects. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We evaluated data independently and extracted, re-inspected and quality assessed the data. We analysed dichotomous data using risk ratio (RR) and calculated their 95% confidence intervals (CI). For continuous data, we calculated mean differences (MD). We excluded continuous data if loss to follow-up was greater than 50% and inspected data for heterogeneity. We used a fixed-effect model for all analyses. For the 2012 update, we assessed risk of bias of included studies and used the GRADE approach to create a 'Summary of findings' table. MAIN RESULTS Twenty-five trials randomising 4651 people are now included in this review. We chose seven main outcomes of interest for the 'Summary of findings' table. More people allocated haloperidol improved in the first six weeks of treatment than those given placebo (4 RCTs n = 472, RR 0.67 CI 0.56 to 0.80, moderate quality evidence). A further eight trials also found a difference favouring haloperidol across the six weeks to six months period (8 RCTs n = 307 RR 0.67 CI 0.58 to 0.78, moderate quality evidence). Relapse data from two trials favoured haloperidol at < 52 weeks but the evidence was very low quality (2 RCTs n = 70, RR 0.69 CI 0.55 to 0.86). Moderate quality evidence showed about half of those entering studies failed to complete the short trials (six weeks to six months), although, at up to six weeks, 16 studies found a difference that marginally favoured haloperidol (n = 1812, RR 0.87 CI 0.80 to 0.95). Adverse effect data does, nevertheless, support clinical impression that haloperidol is a potent cause of movement disorders, at least in the short term. Moderate quality evidence indicates that haloperidol caused parkinsonism (5 RCTs n = 485, RR 5.48 CI 2.68 to 11.22), akathisia (6 RCTs n = 695, RR 3.66 CI 2.24 to 5.97, and acute dystonia (5 RCTs n = 471, RR 11.49 CI 3.23 to 10.85). Discharge from hospital was equivocal between groups (1 RCT n = 33, RR 0.85 CI 0.47 to 1.52, very low quality evidence). Data were not reported for death and patient satisfaction. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Haloperidol is a potent antipsychotic drug but has a high propensity to cause adverse effects. Where there is no treatment option, use of haloperidol to counter the damaging and potentially dangerous consequences of untreated schizophrenia is justified. However, where a choice of drug is available, people with schizophrenia and clinicians may wish to prescribe an alternative antipsychotic with less likelihood of adverse effects such as parkinsonism, akathisia and acute dystonias. Haloperidol should be less favoured as a control drug for randomised trials of new antipsychotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clive E Adams
- Cochrane Schizophrenia Group, The University of Nottingham, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham Innovation Park, Triumph Road,, Nottingham, UK, NG7 2TU
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Arango C, Garibaldi G, Marder SR. Pharmacological approaches to treating negative symptoms: a review of clinical trials. Schizophr Res 2013; 150:346-52. [PMID: 23938176 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2013.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2013] [Revised: 07/09/2013] [Accepted: 07/11/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Clinical trials of pharmacological agents targeting negative symptoms in schizophrenia are reviewed. The focus is on trials that occurred in patients who were stable on an antipsychotic medication at entry to the trial. A small number of trials compared antipsychotics as monotherapy for negative symptoms. Although the data supporting amisulpride for negative symptoms is promising the trials have limitations and it is plausible that the advantages of amisulpride over placebo may result from effects on secondary negative symptoms. Among available agents, antidepressant medications may have effects in negative symptoms. Other promising agents include minocycline, glutamatergic agents, and alpha-7 nicotinic agents. More than 15 active trials are currently underway to evaluate new treatments for negative symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celso Arango
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, IiSGM, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
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Erbaş O, Akseki HS, Eliküçük B, Taşkıran D. Antipsychotic-like effect of trimetazidine in a rodent model. ScientificWorldJournal 2013; 2013:686304. [PMID: 24250273 DOI: 10.1155/2013/686304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Trimetazidine (TMZ) has been used as an anti-ischemic agent for angina pectoris, chorioretinal disturbances, and vertigo. Also, it can induce extrapyramidal type adverse reaction such as parkinsonism, gait disorder, and tremor via blockade of D2 receptors. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of TMZ on novelty-induced rearing behavior and apomorphine-induced stereotypy behavior in male rats. Four groups of rat (n = 7) were administrated with TMZ (10 and 20 mg/kg, i.p.), chlorpromazine (1 mg/kg, i.p.), or isotonic saline. One hour later, apomorphine (2 mg/kg, s.c.) was administrated to each rat. Our results showed that both doses of TMZ significantly decreased the rearing behavior in rats, whereas the decrease with chlorpromazine was higher. TMZ also decreased the stereotypy scores in a dose-dependent manner. We concluded that TMZ has beneficial effects on rearing behavior and stereotypy, which are accepted to be indicators of antipsychotic effect. Taken together, with its antioxidative and cytoprotective properties, TMZ is worthy of being investigated for its anti-psychotic effects as a primary or an adjunctive drug.
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An H, Tan Y, Shi J, Wang Z, Li J, Wang Y, Kosten TR, Zhou DF, Yang F, Zhang X. Extract of Ginkgo biloba is equivalent to vitamin E in attenuating and preventing vacuous chewing movements in a rat model of tardive dyskinesia. Behav Pharmacol 2013; 24:610-6. [DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0b013e3283656d87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Albayrak Y, Ünsal C, Beyazyüz M, Ünal A, Kuloğlu M. Reduced total antioxidant level and increased oxidative stress in patients with deficit schizophrenia: a preliminary study. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2013; 45:144-9. [PMID: 23657077 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2013.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2013] [Revised: 04/28/2013] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Deficit schizophrenia (DS) is defined for identifying a relatively homogeneous subgroup of patients with diagnosis of schizophrenia, characterized by the presence of primary and enduring negative symptoms. There have been several studies which investigated the status of oxidative stress and total antioxidant level in patients with schizophrenia. However, there is not any study which researched differences between DS and nondeficit schizophrenia (NDS) in terms of status of oxidative stress and antioxidant level. We hypothesized that patients with DS would have different status of oxidative stress and antioxidant levels compared with patients with NDS. METHODS Twenty-three patients with DS, 42 patients with NDS and 31 age, sex and smoking status matched healthy controls (HC) were included to study. Five milliliters of blood was drawn from control subjects and patients for assessing total antioxidant potential (TAOP) and total peroxide levels (TPEROX). The ratio of TPEROX to TAOP is referred as oxidative stress index (OSI). RESULTS We noticed that serum TAOP level was significantly lower in DS group compared with NDS and HC groups. The OSI was also found to be higher in DS group compared with NDS and HC groups. Furthermore, serum TAOP level and status of OSI were similar between NDS and HC groups. CONCLUSION Our study is the first to demonstrate differences between DS and NDS in terms of status of oxidative stress and serum total antioxidant level. We suggest that our study represents novel and important results in terms of supporting provides and hypothesis which considered DS as a different disease entity with respect to NDS. Further studies are needed for investigating the status of antioxidants and oxidative stress and their clinical implications in deficit schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yakup Albayrak
- Department of Psychiatry, Kırklareli State Hospital, Kırklareli, Turkey.
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Brondino N, De Silvestri A, Re S, Lanati N, Thiemann P, Verna A, Emanuele E, Politi P. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Ginkgo biloba in Neuropsychiatric Disorders: From Ancient Tradition to Modern-Day Medicine. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2013; 2013:915691. [PMID: 23781271 DOI: 10.1155/2013/915691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2012] [Revised: 02/25/2013] [Accepted: 03/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Ginkgo biloba (Gb) has demonstrated antioxidant and vasoactive properties as well as clinical benefits in several conditions such as ischemia, epilepsy, and peripheral nerve damage. Additionally, Gb is supposed to act as potential cognitive enhancer in dementia. So far, several trials have been conducted to investigate the potential effectiveness of Gb in neuropsychiatric conditions. However, the results of these studies remain controversial. We conducted a systematic review and a meta-analysis of three randomised controlled trials in patients with schizophrenia and eight randomised controlled trials in patients with dementia. Gb treatment reduced positive symptoms in patients with schizophrenia and improved cognitive function and activities of daily living in patients with dementia. No effect of Gb on negative symptoms in schizophrenic patients was found. The general lack of evidence prevents drawing conclusions regarding Gb effectiveness in other neuropsychiatric conditions (i.e., autism, depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and addiction). Our data support the use of Gb in patients with dementia and as an adjunctive therapy in schizophrenic patients.
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Zhang XY, Zhang WF, Zhou DF, Chen DC, Xiu MH, Wu HR, Haile CN, Kosten TA, Kosten TR. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels and its Val66Met gene polymorphism predict tardive dyskinesia treatment response to Ginkgo biloba. Biol Psychiatry 2012; 72:700-6. [PMID: 22695185 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2012.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2012] [Revised: 04/25/2012] [Accepted: 04/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tardive dyskinesia (TD) has no well-accepted treatments or known pathophysiology, but low brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may play an important role in its pathophysiology. Ginkgo biloba (EGb-761) is a potent antioxidant that has neuroprotective effects mediated through enhancing BDNF levels. We hypothesized that treatment with EGb-761 would increase serum BDNF levels and reduce TD, particularly among schizophrenia patients who have the BDNF valine 66 to methionine (Val66Met) genotype (Val/Val). METHODS Serum BDNF levels and genotyping for the BDNF gene Val66Met polymorphism were assessed in Chinese schizophrenic patients with (n = 368) and without (n = 563) TD as well as healthy control subjects (n = 546). About half of the TD patients (n = 157) then participated in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-control 12-week treatment with 240 mg per day of EGb-761. Serum BDNF levels were measured again at posttreatment. Clinical efficacy was determined using the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS). RESULTS TD patients had lower BDNF levels than the non-TD patients and healthy controls. EGb-761 treatment improved symptoms of TD and increased BDNF levels compared with placebo treatment. Moreover, the improvement of AIMS total score correlated with the increase in BDNF levels. Furthermore, improvement in the AIMS score was greatest in those with the Val/Val allele and lowest with the Met/Met allele. CONCLUSIONS The BDNF system may be implicated in the pathophysiology of TD and its improvement with antioxidant treatment. Furthermore, patients with the genetic potential for greater BDNF release (Val/Val at 66) may obtain a greater reduction in TD from EGb-761 treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yang Zhang
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.
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Zhang XY, Chen DC, Xiu MH, Tang W, Zhang F, Liu L, Chen Y, Liu J, Yao JK, Kosten TA, Kosten TR. Plasma total antioxidant status and cognitive impairments in schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2012; 139:66-72. [PMID: 22555016 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2012.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2012] [Revised: 04/04/2012] [Accepted: 04/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress-induced damage to neurons may contribute to cognitive deficits during aging and in neurodegenerative disorders. Schizophrenia has a range of cognitive deficits that may evolve from oxidative stress, and this study examines this association of oxidative stress with cognitive deficits in schizophrenia. We recruited 296 chronic schizophrenia patients and 181 healthy control subjects and examined the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) and plasma total antioxidant status (TAS) in both groups. Schizophrenia symptoms were assessed using the positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS). Our results showed that TAS levels were significantly lower in patients than controls (179.6 ± 81.0 U/ml vs. 194.8 ± 46.0 U/ml, p<0.05). Cognitive scores on the RBANS and nearly all of its five subscales (all p<0.001) except for the Visuospatial/Constructional index (p>0.05) were significantly lower in schizophrenia patients than normal controls. For the patients, TAS was inversely associated with some domains of cognitive deficits in schizophrenia, such as Attention and Immediate Memory. Our findings suggest that oxidative stress may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, and its associated cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yang Zhang
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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Deardorff OG. The clinician's role in assessing for drug-induced movement disorders: Practices at a forensic psychiatric hospital. Ment Health Clin 2012. [DOI: 10.9740/mhc.n91688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Suzuki T, Remington G, Mulsant BH, Rajji TK, Uchida H, Graff-Guerrero A, Mamo DC. Treatment resistant schizophrenia and response to antipsychotics: a review. Schizophr Res 2011; 133:54-62. [PMID: 22000940 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2011.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2011] [Revised: 08/24/2011] [Accepted: 09/17/2011] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There remains a lack of agreement regarding criteria for treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) and definition of response. METHOD A literature search was conducted to identify clinical studies of antipsychotics in TRS using PubMed, EMBASE and PsycINFO (last search 31 July 2011). Psychopharmacological studies with the number of participants of ≥ 40 were evaluated in terms of definitions for TRS and subsequent treatment response. RESULTS Thirty-three studies of antipsychotics in TRS were reviewed. TRS has been defined mainly by severity in symptoms. Many studies based TRS with at least 2 failed adequate antipsychotic trials (at chlorpromazine equivalent doses of ≥ 1000 mg/day for ≥ 6 weeks), but some studies adopted prospective treatment arm to be certain of sample refractoriness. Treatment response has been defined by a relative change in the representative scales (most commonly ≥ 20% decrease in the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale), but it sometimes included the absolute criteria such as post-treatment score of ≤ 35 in the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale or Clinical Global Impression-severity score of ≤ 3 (mild or less severe). Social functioning has not been a primary outcome measure in past pivotal trials, and other important domains of the illness such as cognition and subjective perspectives have not been incorporated into definitions of treatment resistance or response. However, adopting various assessment scales can be time-consuming and complicated, with an additional possibility of disagreement among raters. CONCLUSION Defining outcomes in schizophrenia is a challenging task. It is imperative that the field agrees on how this population is better defined and what constitutes treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takefumi Suzuki
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Geriatric Mental Health Program, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Abstract
Abnormal involuntary dyskinetic movements in schizophrenia patients have been documented for more than 140 years. Clinicians should distinguish between two kinds of disturbances-spontaneous dyskinetic movements and movements induced by psychotropic medications-which may look familiar clinically. As a modern term, tardive dyskinesia (TD) is a potentially permanent neurological hyperkinetic movement disorder that occurs after months or years of taking psychotropic drugs. Several distinct forms of TD exist, specifically tardive akathisia, tardive blepharospasm, tardive dystonia, tardive gait, tardive myoclonus, tardive tremor, and tardive tics, and they have different pathophysiologies and treatment. The pathogenesis of TD remains unclear, and the pathophysiology is complex and multifactorial. Moreover, there is solid evidence of a genetic predisposition to TD. This article summarizes recent relevant publications concerning TD and the most recent studies regarding treatment of this disorder with antioxidative agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Lerner
- Be'er-Sheva Mental Health Center, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O. Box 4600, Be'er-Sheva, 84170, Israel.
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de Araújo FYR, de Oliveira GV, Gomes PXL, Soares MA, Silva MIG, Carvalho AF, de Moraes MO, de Moraes MEA, Vasconcelos SMM, Viana GSB, de Sousa FCF, Macêdo DS. Inhibition of ketamine-induced hyperlocomotion in mice by the essential oil of Alpinia zerumbet: possible involvement of an antioxidant effect. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 63:1103-10. [PMID: 21718294 DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-7158.2011.01312.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The antipsychotic, hypnotic, myorelaxant and antioxidant effects of the essential oil of Alpinia zerumbet (EOAZ) were studied. METHODS EOAZ (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg i.p.) was administered once to mice for the determination of antipsychotic activity (evaluated by ketamine-induced hyperlocomotion), hypnotic activity (induced by sodium pentobarbital, 40 mg/kg i.p.), motor coordination (rotarod test), antioxidant effects (determination of lipid peroxidation and GSH levels), as well as alterations in nitric oxide levels (determination of nitrite content). KEY FINDINGS EOAZ at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg prevented ketamine hyperlocomotion, as did haloperidol (0.2 mg/kg i.p). EOAZ at a dose of 200 mg/kg decreased sleep latency, while all doses increased sleeping time. There was no effect on motor coordination. The in-vitro antioxidant capacity of the oil caused a decrease in lipid peroxidation and increase in GSH levels. EOAZ also prevented the decrease in nitrite content caused by oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest antipsychotic and antioxidant effects for the EOAZ that may have promising efficacy for the treatment of schizophrenia.
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Li XF, Zheng YL, Xiu MH, Chen DC, Kosten TR, Zhang XY. Reduced plasma total antioxidant status in first-episode drug-naive patients with schizophrenia. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2011; 35:1064-7. [PMID: 21392552 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2011.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2011] [Revised: 02/14/2011] [Accepted: 03/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Excessive free radical production leading to oxidative stress may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Determination of total antioxidant status (TAS) provides an index of the sum of activities of all antioxidants. However, there have been few systematic studies to examine the relationship between TAS levels and psychopathology in first-episode and drug-naive patients with schizophrenia. TAS levels were determined in the plasma of 60 never-medicated first-episode patients with schizophrenia and 68 healthy control subjects. The schizophrenia symptomatology and the depressive symptoms were assessed by the positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS) and the Hamilton rating scale for depression (HAMD). The results showed that TAS levels were significantly lower in first-episode patients with schizophrenia than in healthy control subjects (159.8 ± 45.8 U/ml vs 211.4 ± 46.8 U/ml, F=39.5, df=1, 126, p < 0.001). A trend toward significant inverse correlation between TAS levels and PANSS negative subscore was observed (r = 0.25, df=60, p = 0.06). Our results suggest that oxidative stress occurs in an early course of schizophrenia and may have an important role in pathogenesis and perhaps, negative symptomatology of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Feng Li
- College of Chinese Medicinal Material, Jilin Agricultural University, ChangChun, China
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Bitanihirwe BKY, Woo TUW. Oxidative stress in schizophrenia: an integrated approach. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2010; 35:878-93. [PMID: 20974172 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2010.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 311] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2010] [Revised: 09/18/2010] [Accepted: 10/17/2010] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress has been suggested to contribute to the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. In particular, oxidative damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA as observed in schizophrenia is known to impair cell viability and function, which may subsequently account for the deteriorating course of the illness. Currently available evidence points towards an alteration in the activities of enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant systems in schizophrenia. In fact, experimental models have demonstrated that oxidative stress induces behavioral and molecular anomalies strikingly similar to those observed in schizophrenia. These findings suggest that oxidative stress is intimately linked to a variety of pathophysiological processes, such as inflammation, oligodendrocyte abnormalities, mitochondrial dysfunction, hypoactive N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors and the impairment of fast-spiking gamma-aminobutyric acid interneurons. Such self-sustaining mechanisms may progressively worsen producing the functional and structural consequences associated with schizophrenia. Recent clinical studies have shown antioxidant treatment to be effective in ameliorating schizophrenic symptoms. Hence, identifying viable therapeutic strategies to tackle oxidative stress and the resulting physiological disturbances provide an exciting opportunity for the treatment and ultimately prevention of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byron K Y Bitanihirwe
- Laboratory of Behavioural Neurobiology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zurich, Schorenstrasse 16, Schwerzenbach CH 8603, Switzerland.
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Padurariu M, Ciobica A, Dobrin I, Stefanescu C. Evaluation of antioxidant enzymes activities and lipid peroxidation in schizophrenic patients treated with typical and atypical antipsychotics. Neurosci Lett 2010; 479:317-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2010.05.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2010] [Revised: 05/26/2010] [Accepted: 05/27/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Abstract
After decades of research, schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders are still among the most debilitating disorders in medicine. The chronic illness course in most individuals, greater treatment responsiveness during the first episode, progressive gray matter decline during early disease stages, and retrospective accounts of 'prodromal' or early illness signs and symptoms formed the basis for research on the psychosis risk syndrome (PRS), known variably as 'clinical high risk' (CHR), or 'ultra-high risk' (UHR), or 'prodromal'. The pioneering era of research on PRS focused on the development and validation of specific assessment tools and the delineation of high risk criteria. This was followed by the examination of conversion rates in psychosis risk cohorts followed naturalistically, identification of predictors of conversion to psychosis, and investigation of interventions able to abort or delay the development of full psychosis. Despite initially encouraging results concerning the predictive validity of PRS criteria, recent findings of declining conversion rates demonstrate the need for further investigations. Results from intervention studies, mostly involving second-generation antipsychotics and cognitive behavioral therapy, are encouraging, but are currently still insufficient to make treatment recommendations for this early, relatively non-specific illness phase. The next phase of research on PRS, just now beginning, has moved to larger, 'multisite' projects to increase generalizability and to ensure that sufficiently large samples at true risk for psychosis are included. Emphasis in these emerging studies is on: 1) identification of biomarkers for conversion to psychosis; 2) examination of non-antipsychotic, neuroprotective and low-risk pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions; 3) testing of potentially phase-specific interventions; 4) examination of the relationship between treatment response during PRS and prognosis for the course of illness; 5) follow-up of patients who developed schizophrenia despite early interventions and comparison of illness trajectories with patients who did not receive early interventions; 6) characterization of individuals with outcomes other than schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, such as bipolar disorder and remission from PRS, including false positive cases; and 7) assessment of meaningful social and role functioning outcomes. While the research conducted to date has already yielded crucial information, the translation of the concept of a clinically identifiable PRS into clinical practice does not seem justified at this point.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph U Correll
- The Zucker Hillside Hospital, North Shore - Long Island Jewish Health System, Glen Oaks, New York 11004, USA.
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Abstract
This study aimed to review the roles of antioxidants in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, whether the properties of ginkgo can ameliorate symptoms of this illness, and evaluate available literature to test this assumption. This review is based upon published works on antioxidants and ginkgo. A primary electronic search for meta-analysis on the usage of ginkgo or its derived products in schizophrenia was conducted using Pubmed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and AMED. Inclusion criteria were: criteria-based diagnosis of schizophrenia, randomized case assignment, use of ginkgo as an add-on therapy, and assessment using standardized rating scales to measure the state of psychopathology for negative and total symptoms of schizophrenia. Additionally, a detailed review was undertaken to investigate if antioxidants are involved in development of psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia. The six studies that fulfilled the selection criteria were constituted of 466 cases on ginkgo and 362 cases on placebo. They all used the Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms (SANS) to measure negative symptoms, and the Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms (SAPS) or the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) to measure total symptoms. Difference between ginkgo and control groups from their pre- and post-trial scores and its pooled standard deviation were used to compute standardized mean difference (SMD). Ginkgo as an add-on therapy to antipsychotic medication produced statistically significant moderate improvement (SMD=-0.50) in total and negative symptoms of chronic schizophrenia. Ginkgo as add-on therapy ameliorates the symptoms of chronic schizophrenia. The role of antioxidants in pathogenesis of schizophrenia has also been explored.
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Sarris J, Kavanagh DJ, Byrne G. Adjuvant use of nutritional and herbal medicines with antidepressants, mood stabilizers and benzodiazepines. J Psychiatr Res 2010; 44:32-41. [PMID: 19616220 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2009.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2009] [Revised: 05/31/2009] [Accepted: 06/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Adjuvant use of nutritional and herbal medicines has potential to increase the efficacy of synthetic pharmaceuticals, and perhaps also decrease their side-effects by allowing lower doses to be prescribed. We evaluated current evidence for adjuvant use of nutritional and herbal medicines with antidepressants, mood stabilizers and benzodiazepines; and explored novel future areas of research. The paper also critiques current evidence for co-administration of St. John's wort with synthetic antidepressants. We performed a systematic search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, The Cochrane database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and the Chinese Science Citation Database. Search results were supplemented by a review of reference lists and a forward search using the Web of Science. Where possible we calculated effect sizes. Encouraging evidence exists for the use of omega-3 fatty acids, SAMe, folic acid and l-tryptophan adjuvantly with antidepressants to enhance response and improve efficacy. Various nutrients also have emerging evidence as effective adjuncts with antipsychotics and mood stabilizers. While some evidence supports nutritional adjuvancy with various psychopharmacotherapies, adjuvant use of herbal therapies has not been sufficiently studied to warrant standard clinical application. This remains a promising area of research via robust, safety-conscious studies.
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Pazvantoglu O, Selek S, Okay IT, Sengul C, Karabekiroglu K, Dilbaz N, Erel O. Oxidative mechanisms in schizophrenia and their relationship with illness subtype and symptom profile. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2009; 63:693-700. [PMID: 19788631 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1819.2009.02015.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of the present study was to investigate the differences in the antioxidant-oxidant balance (AO-OB) between schizophrenic patients and healthy individuals and to explore the relationship of AO-OB with illness subtypes and symptom profiles. METHODS After a 15-day drug-free period, schizophrenia patients (n = 50) in a clinical sample, and age- and sex-matched healthy subjects (n = 49) were enrolled. Total antioxidant potentials (TAOP) and total peroxide levels (TPEROX) of all participants were measured and the oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated. The assessment included structured measurements, including the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS). RESULTS TAOP had a significant positive correlation with age at onset of schizophrenia (P = 0.013), a negative correlation with the PANSS negative subscale scores (P = 0.008), a negative correlation with the PANSS total scores (P < 0.001), and a significant negative correlation with BPRS scores (P = 0.001). OSI had a significant negative correlation with age at onset (P = 0.046) and a significant positive correlation with PANSS negative subscale (P = 0.015). A multiple regression model indicated a significant linear combination of age, gender, duration of illness, subtype of schizophrenia, and PANSS scores, in which only the subtype of schizophrenia made a statistically significant contribution to predicting mean OSI (F[5,35] = 2.44, P = 0.04). CONCLUSION Several parameters in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia, such as age of onset, level of negative symptoms, and subtype of illness, but not the presence of the illness itself, are associated with the level of oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozan Pazvantoglu
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
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Zhang XY, Chen DC, Xiu MH, Wang F, Qi LY, Sun HQ, Chen S, He SC, Wu GY, Haile CN, Kosten TA, Lu L, Kosten TR. The novel oxidative stress marker thioredoxin is increased in first-episode schizophrenic patients. Schizophr Res 2009; 113:151-7. [PMID: 19540723 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2009.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2009] [Revised: 05/15/2009] [Accepted: 05/20/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Excessive free radical production leading to oxidative stress may be involved in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Oxidative stress increases serum thioredoxin (TRX), a redox-regulating protein with antioxidant activity recognized as an oxidative-stress marker. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical significance of serum TRX levels in various stages of schizophrenia. Serum TRX levels were determined using ELISA from 60 never-medicated first-episode and 66 medicated chronic schizophrenia patients and 66 healthy control subjects matched for age and gender. The psychopathology of schizophrenia was assessed by the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). Our results showed that group comparison between first-episode and chronic patients and control groups revealed significantly increased serum TRX only in first-episode patients. Increased levels of TRX in patients experiencing an acute stage schizophrenic episode was also significantly higher compared to chronic schizophrenic patients on antipsychotic medication. Serum TRX was also positively correlated with positive symptoms of schizophrenia. Our results suggest oxidative stress occurs in an acute stage of schizophrenic episode and may have an important role in pathogenesis and symptomology of schizophrenia. Lower TRX levels in chronic patients treated with antipsychotics may have implications for treatment outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yang Zhang
- Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Abstract
Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diverse disease states, and may be a common pathogenic mechanism underlying many major psychiatric disorders, as the brain has comparatively greater vulnerability to oxidative damage. This review aims to examine the current evidence for the role of oxidative stress in psychiatric disorders, and its academic and clinical implications. A literature search was conducted using the Medline, Pubmed, PsycINFO, CINAHL PLUS, BIOSIS Preview, and Cochrane databases, with a time-frame extending to September 2007. The broadest data for oxidative stress mechanisms have been derived from studies conducted in schizophrenia, where evidence is available from different areas of oxidative research, including oxidative marker assays, psychopharmacology studies, and clinical trials of antioxidants. For bipolar disorder and depression, a solid foundation for oxidative stress hypotheses has been provided by biochemical, genetic, pharmacological, preclinical therapeutic studies and one clinical trial. Oxidative pathophysiology in anxiety disorders is strongly supported by animal models, and also by human biochemical data. Pilot studies have suggested efficacy of N-acetylcysteine in cocaine dependence, while early evidence is accumulating for oxidative mechanisms in autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In conclusion, multi-dimensional data support the role of oxidative stress in diverse psychiatric disorders. These data not only suggest that oxidative mechanisms may form unifying common pathogenic pathways in psychiatric disorders, but also introduce new targets for the development of therapeutic interventions.
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Doruk A, Uzun O, Ozşahin A. A placebo-controlled study of extract of ginkgo biloba added to clozapine in patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Int Clin Psychopharmacol 2008; 23:223-7. [PMID: 18545061 DOI: 10.1097/YIC.0b013e3282fcff2f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The focus of this study was the systematic evaluation of the clinical effects of the extract of ginkgo biloba (EGb) as an adjunct to the atypical antipsychotic clozapine in the treatment of refractory schizophrenia. In a placebo-controlled study, 42 patients with chronic, treatment-resistant schizophrenia, who were maintained on optimal doses of clozapine, were administered either 120 mg/day of EGb (N=20) or placebo (N=22) for 12 weeks. Clinical evaluations with the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, the Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms, and the Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms were completed biweekly. The use of EGb as an adjunct to clozapine was effective in decreasing negative symptoms, but not positive and overall psychopathology symptoms. EGb produced a mean 7.9+/-7.0 point reduction in the total Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms score compared with a mean 1.8+/-3.5 point reduction in the placebo group (P=0.034). These preliminary data suggested that EGb was found useful for enhancing the effect of clozapine on negative symptoms in patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia.
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Berk M, Ng F, Dean O, Dodd S, Bush AI. Glutathione: a novel treatment target in psychiatry. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2008; 29:346-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2008.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2008] [Revised: 05/05/2008] [Accepted: 05/07/2008] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Chinese herbal medicine has been used to treat millions of people with schizophrenia for thousands of years. AIMS To evaluate Chinese herbal medicine as a treatment for schizophrenia. METHOD A systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). RESULTS Seven trials were included. Most studies evaluated Chinese herbal medicine in combination with Western antipsychotic drugs; in these trials results tended to favour combination treatment compared with antipsychotic alone (Clinical Global Impression ;not improved/worse' n=123, RR=0.19, 95% CI 0.1-0.6, NNT=6,95% CI 5-11; n=109, Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale ;not improved/worse' RR=0.78,95% CI 0.5-1.2; n=109, Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms ;not improved/worse' RR=0.87,95% CI 0.7-1.2; n=109, Scale for the Assessment of Positive Symptoms ;not improved/worse' RR=0.69,95% CI 0.5-1.0, NNT=6 95% CI 4-162). Medium-term study attrition was significantly less for people allocated the herbal/antipsychotic mix (n=897, four RCTs, RR=0.34,95% CI 0.2-0.7, NNT=23,95% CI18-43). CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that combining Chinese herbal medicine with antipsychotics is beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Rathbone
- Cochrane Schizop Schizophrenia hrenia Group, Academic Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, University of Leeds,15 Hyde Terrace, Leeds LS2 9LT, UK.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine changes of blood oxidative-antiovidative level in schizophrenic patients and its relationship with clinical symptoms. METHODS Forty-six Chinese patients met DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV) criteria for schizophrenia and fifty age- and sex-matched healthy controls were enrolled in the present study. Baseline psychiatric symptom severity was assessed with brief psychiatric rating scale, positive and negative syndrome scale on the blood draw day. Fresh blood samples were collected to measure levels of nitric oxide and lipid peroxide in plasma as well as activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase in red blood cells by spectrophotometric assays simultaneously. RESULTS Comparison of the biochemical parameters indicated that the level of nitric oxide and lipid peroxide increased in patient group, which represented a positive correlation with positive scale scores; while the activities of three critical enzymes decreased and showed a negative linear correlation. CONCLUSION This study showed that there are dysregulation of free radical metabolism and poor activities of the antioxidant defense systems in schizophrenic patients. Excess free radicals formation may play a critical role in the etiology of schizophrenia. Using antioxidants might be an effective therapeutic approach to partially alleviate or prevent the symptoms of schizophrenia.
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Zhang ZJ, Kang WH, Li Q, Wang XY, Yao SM, Ma AQ. Beneficial effects of ondansetron as an adjunct to haloperidol for chronic, treatment-resistant schizophrenia: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Schizophr Res 2006; 88:102-10. [PMID: 16959472 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2006.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2006] [Revised: 07/12/2006] [Accepted: 07/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies suggest that the serotonin-3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist ondansetron possesses the therapeutic potential for schizophrenia. This study was designed to determine whether ondansetron as an adjunct to haloperidol could enhance the clinical efficacy and reduce the adverse side effects in chronic treatment-resistant schizophrenia. METHODS Under double-blind, randomized conditions, 121 treatment-resistant inpatients with chronic DSM-IV-diagnosed schizophrenia received haloperidol (4-30 mg/day) combined with either placebo (N=63) or a fixed dose of 8 mg/day of ondansetron (N=58) for 12 weeks. Efficacy was defined as the change from baseline to endpoint in score on overall scale and subscales of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and Clinical Global Impression-Severity (CGI-S). Side effects were evaluated using the Treatment Emergent Symptom Scale and Extrapyramidal Symptom Rating Scale. RESULTS Ondansetron combined with haloperidol produced a significantly greater improvement on PANSS overall scale and subscales for negative symptoms, general psychopathology, and cognition at endpoint compared to placebo with haloperidol, but no between-treatment group difference was observed on the subscale for positive symptoms and CGI-S. The ondansetron-treated group had a significantly higher proportion of patients with a 30% or greater baseline-to-endpoint reduction in PANSS total score than placebo. Patients in adjunctive ondansetron therapy also experienced significantly lower incidence and severity of parkinsonism and akathisia as well as fewer behavioral hyperactivity, cardiac, and gastrointestinal side effects. CONCLUSIONS Ondansetron is an effective adjunctive agent in enhancing the effectiveness and reducing some adverse side effects of antipsychotic therapy for chronic, treatment-resistant schizophrenia, particularly for negative and cognitive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhang-Jin Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shannxi 710061, China.
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Murphy BP, Chung YC, Park TW, McGorry PD. Pharmacological treatment of primary negative symptoms in schizophrenia: a systematic review. Schizophr Res 2006; 88:5-25. [PMID: 16930948 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2006.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2006] [Revised: 07/05/2006] [Accepted: 07/05/2006] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Optimal treatment of primary negative symptoms is important because their presence is associated with poor outcome. AIMS To systematically review all studies dealing with the efficacy of pharmacological agents on primary negative symptoms. METHOD A comprehensive search of the relevant literature was undertaken using electronic database, reference lists and personal contact. RESULTS There is a lack of standardized research designs. Amisulpride is the most extensively studied drug with respect to efficacy against primary negative symptoms. At low doses it demonstrates a consistent, modest effect compared to placebo, though not to conventional antipsychotics and has yet to be tested against other atypicals. Evidence from multiple studies that used simple statistical analyses and inclusion criteria for patients with primary negative symptoms does not support a direct effect for clozapine. Path-analysis studies support the direct effects of risperidone, olanzapine, sertindole and aripiprazole, however, different statistical analyses of the same risperidone study produced conflicting results and the direct effects of olanzapine were not confirmed in selected patients with primary negative symptoms. There are no studies supporting the use of ziprasidone or quetiapine. The effects of typical antipsychotics on primary negative symptoms are inconclusive and likely to depend on drug dosages. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), mirtazepine and NMDA agonists show early promise but require further study. Novel agents such as selegiline, naltrexone, dehydroepiandrosterone, galantamine, Ginkgo, nitric oxide, L-deprenyl and pergolide show positive effects on general negative symptoms but remain untested against primary negative symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Further studies using standardized selective inclusion criteria and controlling for chronicity are needed. Research guidelines are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan P Murphy
- ORYGEN Youth Health, and Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Zhang XY, Zhou DF, Cao LY, Wu GY. The effects of Ginkgo biloba extract added to haloperidol on peripheral T cell subsets in drug-free schizophrenia: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2006; 188:12-7. [PMID: 16906395 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-006-0476-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2005] [Accepted: 10/31/2005] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb) administration on T lymphocyte subsets and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in schizophrenia. METHODS One hundred and nine schizophrenic inpatients were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of treatment with 360 mg/day of EGb plus a stable dose of 0.25 mg kg(-1) day(-1) of haloperidol and placebo plus the same dose of haloperidol using a double-blind design. Clinical efficacy was determined using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS), Scale for Assessment of Positive Symptoms, and Scale for Assessment of Negative Symptoms. T lymphocytes (CD3+), T helper cells (CD4+), T suppressor cells (CD8+), and IL-2-secreting cells were measured using the alkaline phosphatase/antialkaline phosphatase technique; and SOD levels were measured by radioimmunometric assay at baseline and at posttreatment, as compared to 30 sex- and age-matched normal subjects. RESULTS Patients demonstrated significantly lower CD3+, CD4+, and IL-2-secreting cells, together with CD4/CD8 ratio, and significantly higher blood SOD levels than did healthy controls at baseline. There was a significantly negative relationship between SOD and CD4+ cells in the schizophrenic group at baseline. After a 12-week treatment, CD3+, CD4+, and IL-2-secreting cells, together with CD4/CD8 ratio, showed a significant increase, but a significant decrease in SOD levels in the EGb group. There was only a significant increase in CD4+ cells but no change in SOD levels in the placebo group. There was a significant correlation between the change in CD4+ cells at posttreatment vs pretreatment and a reduction of BPRS total score in the whole patient group. CONCLUSIONS EGb may improve the decreased peripheral immune functions in schizophrenia. The beneficial effects of EGb on the immune systems and the improvement of schizophrenic symptoms may be medicated through its antioxidant activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yang Zhang
- Institute of Mental Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, People's Republic of China.
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Abstract
The use of herbal and natural products for medical purposes is common in all human civilizations, and use in Western societies has grown considerably in recent years. However, differences in usage patterns between different ethnic groups are yet to be delineated. The current study examined the frequency and type of complementary/alternative medications used by a sample of 453 rural psychiatric outpatients of two different ethnic groups. The products were classified as "natural" (herbal products requiring some preparation before consumption) and "processed" (products in "ready-to-use" form). There were significant ethnic differences in usage patterns of the various preparations: Hispanics, relative to Caucasians, were twice as likely to use natural products, whereas Caucasians were more likely than Hispanics to use processed products. The symptoms addressed were predominantly psychiatric, with natural products, and nonpsychiatric, with processed products. These results may increase awareness among healthcare providers regarding the usage frequency of such complementary/alternative medications products and the different usage patterns across ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo Ng
- Sun Valley Behavioral Medical Center, 300 S. Imperial Ave., Suite 9, El Centro, CA 92243, USA.
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