Traumatic Brain Injury and Risk of Schizophrenia and Other Non-mood Psychotic Disorders: Findings From a Large Inpatient Database in the United States

BACKGROUND

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is linked with an increased risk of schizophrenia and other non-mood psychotic disorders (psychotic disorders), but the prevalence and contributing factors of these psychiatric conditions post-TBI remain unclear. This study explores this link to identify key risk factors in TBI patients.

METHODS

We used the 2017 National Inpatient Sample dataset. Patients with a history of TBI (n = 26 187) were identified and matched 1:1 by age and gender to controls without TBI (n = 26 187). We compared clinical and demographic characteristics between groups. The association between TBI and psychotic disorders was explored using the logistic regression analysis, and results were presented as Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

Psychotic disorders were significantly more prevalent in TBI patients (10.9%) vs controls (4.7%) (P < .001). Adjusted odds of psychotic disorders were 2.2 times higher for TBI patients (95% CI 2.05-2.43, P < .001). Male TBI patients had higher psychotic disorders prevalence than females (11.9% vs 8.4%). Younger age, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, personality disorders, and intellectual disability are associated with an increased risk of psychotic disorders in men.

CONCLUSION

Our study found that hospitalized TBI patients had 2.2 times higher odds of Schizophrenia non-mood psychotic disorder, indicating an association. This highlights the need for early screening of psychotic disorders and intervention in TBI patients, calling for more research.

Pharmacological Interventions of Atypical Antipsychotics Induced Weight Gain in the Pediatric Population: A Systemic Review of Current Evidence

To systematically review studies evaluating pharmacological treatment intervention of the atypical antipsychotic induced weight gain in the pediatric population and summarize the current evidence of the pharmacological treatment. According to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we searched the various databases Medline, PubMed, PubMed central (PMC), CINAHL, and clinicaltrial.gov. until Jan 30th, 2022 for relevant clinical studies. Medical subject heading (MeSH) terms or keywords were used, "Body Weight," "Weight Gain," "Weight Loss," "Body Weight Maintenance," "Pediatric Obesity" in "Pediatrics," "Adolescent," "Child" in context of "Antipsychotic Agents" and "Drug Therapy," "Therapeutics," "Treatment Outcome," "Early Medical Intervention." We used the PICO algorithm for our search (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes, and Study Design) framework. The initial search included 746 articles, nine studies were ultimately selected in the final qualitative review. We included relevant clinical reviews, case series, and randomized clinical trials that evaluated pharmacological intervention for antipsychotic-induced weight gain in the pediatric population. Non-peer-reviewed, non-human, non-English languages article was excluded. Metformin is the most studied medication for antipsychotic-induced weight gain in children. Three studies have shown that adding Metformin to the antipsychotics can significantly reduce the body weight and body mass index with mild transient side effects. Other adjunct medications like topiramate, amantadine, betahistine, or melatonin vary greatly in mitigating weight with various side effects. Lifestyle modification is the first step in dealing with AIWG, but the result is inconsistent. Avoiding the use of antipsychotic in children is preferred. Adding an adjuvant medication to the antipsychotic could prevent or mitigate their negative metabolic effect on the body weight and body mass index. Metformin has the most evidence, topiramate, betahistine, amantadine, and melatonin is possible alternatives in the pediatric patient without changing their antipsychotic medication. Other viable options show some benefits but need further clinical studies to establish efficacy and safety.

Mental health outcomes and suicidality in hospitalized transgender adolescents: A propensity score-matched Cross-sectional analysis of the National inpatient sample 2016-2018

Transgender adolescents have unique mental health needs. This demographic has increased rates of mood disorders, anxiety, and depression compared to their cisgender peers. Large-scale studies focused on mental health outcomes, including suicidality, in the transgender adolescent population remain unknown. This study tries to fill these gaps in the literature. Data for this study was taken from the National Inpatient Sample 2016-2018. Transgender adolescents were identified using the ICD-10 codes related to transsexualism diagnoses. These individuals were compared to adolescents without transsexualism diagnoses. To mitigate imbalances in baseline characteristics, we utilized a 1:2 nearest neighbor propensity score matching with a caliper width of 0.0001, considering variables such as age, year of hospitalization, and psychiatric disorders. Following propensity score matching, the study cohort comprised 2635 transgender and 5270 non-transgender adolescents (Mean age 15.2 years). The transgender group demonstrated a notably higher prevalence of mood disorders (91%) and anxiety disorders (65%). Furthermore, the prevalence of suicidal ideation was significantly higher in the transgender group (52.4% vs. 39.2%, p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in the prevalence of suicide attempts between the groups. After controlling for psychiatric comorbidities, age, and gender, the odds ratio for the composite outcome of suicidal ideation or attempt was 1.99 (95% CI 1.58-2.12, p < 0.001). Our study identifies elevated mood and anxiety disorders and suicidality rates in hospitalized transgender adolescents compared to cisgender peers. Mood disorders notably amplify the risk of suicidal attempts. These findings urgently call for targeted mental health interventions and policy changes to serve this vulnerable population in healthcare settings better.

Bullying Victimization in Children and Adolescents and Its Impact on Academic Outcomes

ABSTRACT

Bullying victimization has been identified as a significant factor influencing academic outcomes. We sought to evaluate the educational outcomes and psychiatric comorbidities in children and adolescents who are victims of bullying using the National Survey of Children's Health dataset for the study. The participants were children and adolescents (age: 6-17 years) categorized into two groups: group 1, not bullied (n = 21,015), and group 2, bullied more than once (n = 21,775). Individuals whose health status was fair or poor have experienced more bullying (2.4% vs. 1.4%, p < 0.001). Individuals in the group 2 were more likely to repeat the grades than the group 1 (7.1% vs. 5.9%, p = 0.039). Individuals who were missing ≥11 school days and sometimes or never engaged in school were observed to be more in the group 2 compared with the group 1 (5.9% vs. 3.2% and 20.3% vs. 10.6%, p < 0.001). In conclusion, bullying victimization could be a risk factor and associated with decreased academic outcomes.

Prevalence of Psychiatric Disorders Among Children and Adolescents in Child Welfare Custody Admitted to the Hospital: A Nationwide Inpatient Sample Analysis

Objective: To assess the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among children and adolescents in child welfare custody admitted to the hospital.

Methods: Data were collected from the 2016-2017 National Inpatient Sample of the US population of general hospital admissions. Data for patients aged 12-17 years who were in child welfare custody were obtained using the ICD-10 diagnosis code Z6221: child in welfare custody. The control group comprised patients not in child welfare custody. Groups were compared for demographic, clinical, and hospital characteristics.

Results: The study group included 879 child welfare patients, of whom 38.9% were male, with a mean age of 14.7 years. The control group comprised 222,494 patients, of whom 41.2% were male, with a mean age of 14.9 years. In the study group, 69.4% of patients had mood disorders compared to 28.6% in the control group. Half of the patients in the study group had anxiety disorders and almost 44% had ADHD and other conduct disorders compared to 19.3% and 14.2%, respectively, in the control group. Prevalence of suicidal ideation/attempt was almost 3 times higher in the study group compared to controls (41.0% vs 14.8%), and 18.3% of study group patients had a substance use disorder compared to 8.3% of controls. Mood disorders were the most common reason for hospitalization (44.8% vs 19.2%), followed by ADHD/other conduct disorders (5.3% vs 1.1%) and anxiety disorders (4.9% vs 0.9%).

Conclusions: Children and adolescents in the child welfare system are associated with a higher risk of mental health problems. More studies are needed to identify the factors that contribute to psychiatric comorbidities in this population and to determine and address the factors that can prevent mental health issues.

Prim Care Companion CNS Disord 2023;25(6):22m03238.

Author affiliations are listed at the end of this article.

Prevalence of Psychiatric Comorbidities in Patients With Neurofibromatosis

Objective: To assess the prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities in patients with neurofibromatosis.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we used the 2010-2014 National Inpatient Sample database. Patients ≥ 18 years of age with a primary or secondary diagnosis of neurofibromatosis and psychiatric comorbidities were queried.

Results: A total of 43,270 patients with a mean age of 48.7 years (female: 55.7%, White: 70.1%) were included in the study. Overall, psychiatric comorbidities were present in 46.5% of patients; mood disorders (22.1%) and anxiety disorders (12.2%) were the most prevalent comorbidities. Although previous studies report prevalence rates of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in up to 50% of patients with neurofibromatosis, our study found that the rate was much lower at 1.10%. Female sex and non-White race were less associated with psychiatric comorbidities (odds ratio = 0.868 [P = .003] and 0.689 [P < .001], respectively). The moderate-to-extreme loss of function illness severity category was associated with 1.35-times higher odds of having psychiatric comorbidities compared to mild-to-moderate or no loss of function (P < .001). The total length of stay was similar in patients with and without psychiatric comorbidities (mean = 4.98 [95% CI, 4.72-5.24] vs mean = 4.83 [95% CI, 4.60-5.07], respectively; P = .34).

Conclusions: In adult patients with neurofibromatosis, 46.5% were found to have at least one psychiatric comorbid diagnosis. The most frequent psychiatric comorbid disorders were mood disorders and anxiety disorders. Female sex and non-White race predicted a lower likelihood of having a psychiatric disorder.

Prim Care Companion CNS Disord 2023;25(5):23m03514.

Author affiliations are listed at the end of this article.

Shortage of Mental Health Professionals Doing Research: A Cause for Concern

ABSTRACT

Research plays a crucial role in advancing health care. Physician scientists, who bring together clinical and scientific perspectives, are integral to this effort. However, the pursuit of research careers among physicians has declined due to several obstacles, including inadequate support, training, time, and financial constraints. Emergency medicine and psychiatric specialties receive less support than other specialties, and COVID-19 has worsened the challenges. The COVID-19 has made things harder for physician scientists, increasing clinical demands and causing research delays. To tackle this, future physician scientists should receive organized training that includes mandatory research activities during their training. Large-scale studies should identify barriers to research and offer mentoring for young physician scientists. Encouraging female researchers and involving research faculty in residency training is crucial. Collaboration between physician and PhD researchers is essential for the future of medical research. It is vital to address these to advance health care and improve mental health outcomes.

Effectiveness of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Depression, Schizophrenia, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: An Umbrella Meta-Analysis

Objective: To analyze the safety and efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) via umbrella meta-analysis.

Data Sources: Meta-analysis studies were searched in PubMed from inception to May 2021 using the keywords anxiety, depression, ADHD, schizophrenia, mood disorder, OCD, psychiatric disorders, GAD, bipolar disorders, ASD, PTSD, transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcranial, magnetic, stimulation. PRISMA guidelines were followed.

Study Selection: Abstracts and full-length articles were reviewed for meta-analysis studies with data on the safety and efficacy of rTMS and sham and were collected for quantitative analysis. The full texts of all identified studies were independently screened and assessed to determine eligibility. Any disagreement was resolved through consensus.

Data Extraction: The descriptive variables extracted included the author names, study year, sample size, studies included in the meta-analysis, study period, and type of intervention.

Results: 28 meta-analyses were included; 13 were on treatment-resistant depression, 9 on schizophrenia, and 6 on OCD. In treatment-resistant depression, the rTMS group had higher odds of response compared to sham (odds ratio [OR] = 3.27; 95% CI, 2.76-3.87; P < .00001) and higher odds of remission (secondary outcome) (OR = 2.83; 95% CI, 2.33-3.45; P < .00001). rTMS was superior to sham in the reduction of negative symptoms of schizophrenia (mean difference [MD]: 0.47; 95% CI, 0.23-0.7; P < .0001). However, no significant difference was found between the effects of rTMS and sham on auditory hallucinations (MD: 0.24; 95% CI, 0.26-0.74; P = .35), which resulted in 94% heterogeneity. TMS was better than sham in reducing the severity of OCD symptoms (MD: 0.81; 95% CI, 0.53-1.10; P < .00001).

Conclusions: The effectiveness of rTMS for symptom reduction in various psychiatric disorders is associated with differences in neuropathology, disease-specific target site, and frequency of rTMS.

Prim Care Companion CNS Disord 2023;25(5):22r03423.

Author affiliations are listed at the end of this article.

Suicide Risk Among Adolescents With ADHD: An Overview From the National Inpatient Sample Data Set

ABSTRACT

Studies have shown an association between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and suicide; however, it has not been studied from inpatient hospitalization data among adolescents. For this study, data from the National Inpatient Sample data set were used. Based on the diagnosis of ADHD, the patient sample was stratified into two groups. Study group was composed of patients with ADHD, and control group was selected by propensity score matching (1:1), which composed of patients without ADHD. The primary outcome was suicidal ideation/attempt between the groups. Prevalence of SI was 25.1% in patients with ADHD versus 10.3% among patients without ADHD. Prevalence of SA was also very high (8.0% vs 3.9%) among patient with ADHD compared with non-ADHD group. After controlling for covariates, ADHD was a strong predictor of suicidal ideation/attempt with an odds ratio of 2.18. It is important to screen for suicidality in patient with ADHD given the high prevalence of suicidality.

Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia for the Treatment of Child and Adolescent Anxiety and Depression: A Systematic Review From Randomized Controlled Trials

ABSTRACT

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) has shown promising results in the adult population. However, there is not enough evidence for children and adolescents. Hence, we evaluated the current evidence of CBT-I in the treatment of anxiety and depression in children and adolescents. Published randomized clinical trials published before June 2020 were searched from PubMed, Cochrane Library of database, clinicaltrials.gov, and Google Scholar. Out of seven included studies, six studies assessed the effect of CBT-I on depression, and five assessed the effect on anxiety. In this review, most studies in this review showed a strong effect of CBT-I on symptoms of depression. Although a positive effect of CBT-I on anxiety was noted, only a small number of studies have considered this management. These findings should be considered preliminary, and further large-scale studies are warranted to further explore this finding further.

Impact of Paternal Depression on Child Neurodevelopmental Outcomes and Disorders

Objective: To explore paternal depression (before, during, and after pregnancy) and its association with neurodevelopmental disorders in children.

Data Sources: A systematic, English-language review was conducted in PubMed, PubMed Central, MEDLINE, Web of Science, BIOSIS Previews, and SciELO. All relevant literature published from inception to March 31, 2021, was included. The MeSH terms used in the search included paternal behavior, fathers, or father-child relations in the context of depression, postpartum depression, and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Data Extraction: The PICOS (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes, and Study design) tool was used to enhance reporting of the findings. Twenty-six articles were included in the review.

Results: Paternal depression during the perinatal period resembles maternal perinatal depression. Early paternal depression has considerable emotional, behavioral, and developmental impacts on their children. Genetic endowment and environmental factors induced by paternal depression-related behaviors may lead to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Conclusions and Relevance: The findings suggest that paternal depression negatively influences neurodevelopmental disorders in the offspring.

Sexual Abuse and Its Impact on Suicidal Ideation and Attempts and Psychiatric Illness in Children and Adolescents With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Objective: Sexual abuse in minors aged 6-17 years is a significant public health concern. Victims of sexual abuse are at risk of developing complex psychopathology and chronic suicidal thoughts. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops in one-third of minors with a history of sexual abuse. The primary objective of this study was to assess the baseline characteristics of minors with PTSD and a history of sexual abuse (PTSD+S) compared with minors with PTSD without sexual abuse (PTSD only). The secondary objective was to evaluate the psychiatric comorbidities and suicidal ideation/attempts between the groups.

Methods: The National Inpatient Sample database from 2006 to 2014 was analyzed using the ICD-9 code for PTSD and history of sexual abuse. PTSD+S (n = 251) subjects were compared with those with PTSD only (n = 24,243) using t test and χ² test. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed with suicidal behavior (suicidal ideation/attempt) as the outcome and PTSD with and without sexual abuse, sex, age, and other psychiatric comorbid conditions as independent variables.

Results: More patients in the PTSD+S group were nonwhite (52% vs 42%, P < .001) and female (81% vs 66%, P < .001) compared to PTSD only patients. Also, more patients were Hispanic in the PTSD+S group compared to the PTSD only group (28% vs 13%). Major depressive disorder (MDD; 23% vs 14%, P < .001) and substance use disorder (SUD; 20% vs 11%) were more commonly diagnosed psychiatric comorbidities in the PTSD+S group (P < .001). Suicidal behavior (suicidal ideation/attempt) was higher in the PTSD+S group than in PTSD only patients (36% vs 30%, P = .05). Overall, the risk of suicidal behavior was 29% higher in the PTSD+S group than in PTSD only patients (odds ratio [OR] = 1.29, P = .05). In the multivariate analysis, after controlling for age and sex, comorbid diagnosis of MDD (OR = 1.66, P < .001) and SUD (OR = 1.18, P < .001) was associated with increased suicidal behavior. However, PTSD+S showed no association with suicidality (OR = 1.16, P = .29) in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusions: Sexual abuse is associated with PTSD and higher risk of comorbid psychiatric illnesses, including MDD, SUD, and suicidal behavior. In-depth research on the relationship between child and adolescent sexual abuse and chronic suicidality is warranted.

Psychiatric Disorders in Hospitalized Homeless Individuals: A Nationwide Study

Objective: To compare the incidence of inpatient psychiatric admissions and evaluate the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among homeless individuals.

Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized the Nationwide Inpatient Sample dataset for the year 2016-2017. US adult homeless patients (age ≥ 18 years) admitted to the hospital were age and sex matched (1:1) with non-homeless individuals using the propensity score matching technique.

Results: The study included a total of 614,390 homeless patients (mean age = 46.1 years, 71.9% male). Most of the homeless patients were Black (24.8% vs 17.3% of the non-homeless population). Mood, anxiety, and psychotic disorders were highly prevalent in homeless patients compared to those who were non-homeless (P < .001). Composite of psychiatric disorders was also significantly higher in the homeless group (64.9% vs 29.1%, P < .001). Suicidal ideation was present in 19.4% of the homeless individuals and in 2.9% of the non-homeless (P < .001). Hospital admissions related to any psychiatric condition were 33.9% in the homeless and 6.7% in the non-homeless (P < .001). Compared to the non-homeless, homeless patients admitted for psychiatric disorders had longer inpatient psychiatric admissions (8.7 vs 7.7 days, P < .001).

Conclusions: The results revealed a positive association between homelessness, comorbid psychiatric disorders, and suicidal ideations/attempts. Appropriate psychiatric screening measures are needed for the homeless. Homelessness is associated with longer inpatient psychiatric stay. The challenges faced in treating and preventing mental illness in the homeless should be investigated further.

Prevalence of Substance use disorder among young adults hospitalized in the US hospital: A decade of change

INTRODUCTION

Mental health disorders (MHD) and substance use disorders (SUD) lead to outstanding socioeconomic costs and increased hospital visits. However, very few studies have quantified this trend over time and across specific conditions. ​​Our study aims to investigate and compare the prevalence of MHDs and SUDs in hospitalizations between 2007 and 2017.

METHODS

We used hospital records for 2007 and 2017 from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) datasets to identify young adults (18-44 years) hospitalized with MHD and SUD. The prevalence of MHD in hospitalized patients in 2017 vs. 2007 was measured and compared. We generated a multivariable logistic regression analysis controlled for confounders, including age, sex, race, and payer status. We evaluated these outcomes using Odds Ratio (OR) and 95% Confidence Interval (CI).

RESULTS

A total 10,353,890 patients were included in 2007, and 8,569,789 patients were included in 2017. The prevalence of drug abuse among hospitalized patients was 8.4% in 2017 vs. 6.2% in 2007. Prevalence increased in both genders (15.7% vs. 13.0% among male, 5.7% vs. 3.9% among females) in 2017 vs. 2007. All psychiatric disorders showed a higher prevalence in 2017 compared to 2007. When stratified by race, the prevalence of substance use disorder increased among all races except Black race between 2017 vs. 2007. On multivariable analysis, widespread drug abuse was significantly associated with hospital admissions in 2017 vs. 2007 (OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.20-1.34, p<0.001). These associations held across many substance abuse cases and mental health disorders except cocaine abuse (OR: 0.84, 95%CI: 0.76-0.93, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

There was a significant rise in substance use disorder and psychiatric disorder a decade later, from 2007, in hospitalized patients in the age group 18-44 years. The most increase was observed in amphetamine use disorder and anxiety disorder. Suicide and intentional self-inflicted injury increased in all races, with a maximum increase observed in Native Americans. Further studies evaluating the factors responsible for this upward trend would be beneficial.

Hypertensive Crisis-Related Hospitalizations and Subsequent Major Adverse Cardiac Events in Young Adults with Cannabis Use Disorder: A Nationwide Analysis

Background and Objectives: With the growing recreational cannabis use and recent reports linking it to hypertension, we sought to determine the risk of hypertensive crisis (HC) hospitalizations and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) in young adults with cannabis use disorder (CUD+). Material and Methods: Young adult hospitalizations (18−44 years) with HC and CUD+ were identified from National Inpatient Sample (October 2015−December 2017). Primary outcomes included prevalence and odds of HC with CUD. Co-primary (in-hospital MACCE) and secondary outcomes (resource utilization) were compared between propensity-matched CUD+ and CUD- cohorts in HC admissions. Results: Young CUD+ had higher prevalence of HC (0.7%, n = 4675) than CUD- (0.5%, n = 92,755), with higher odds when adjusted for patient/hospital-characteristics, comorbidities, alcohol and tobacco use disorder, cocaine and stimulant use (aOR 1.15, 95%CI:1.06−1.24, p = 0.001). CUD+ had significantly increased adjusted odds of HC (for sociodemographic, hospital-level characteristics, comorbidities, tobacco use disorder, and alcohol abuse) (aOR 1.17, 95%CI:1.01−1.36, p = 0.034) among young with benign hypertension, but failed to reach significance when additionally adjusted for cocaine/stimulant use (aOR 1.12, p = 0.154). Propensity-matched CUD+ cohort (n = 4440, median age 36 years, 64.2% male, 64.4% blacks) showed higher rates of substance abuse, depression, psychosis, previous myocardial infarction, valvular heart disease, chronic pulmonary disease, pulmonary circulation disease, and liver disease. CUD+ had higher odds of all-cause mortality (aOR 5.74, 95%CI:2.55−12.91, p < 0.001), arrhythmia (aOR 1.73, 95%CI:1.38−2.17, p < 0.001) and stroke (aOR 1.46, 95%CI:1.02−2.10, p = 0.040). CUD+ cohort had fewer routine discharges with comparable in-hospital stay and cost. Conclusions: Young CUD+ cohort had higher rate and odds of HC admissions than CUD-, with prevalent disparities and higher subsequent risk of all-cause mortality, arrhythmia and stroke.

Risk of Suicide in Patients With Major Depressive Disorder and Comorbid Chronic Pain Disorder: An Insight From National Inpatient Sample Data

BACKGROUND

Approximately 17.3 million adults in the United States have had a minimum of one major depressive episode. Comorbidity of depression and pain can affect individuals of any age, but is more prevalent in the elderly affecting up to 13% of people in the elderly population. Given that depression and suicidal ideation (SI) pose a considerable burden resulting in enormous suffering, there is a need to understand the factors of the relationship between chronic pain (CP), depression, and SI.

OBJECTIVES

Our primary objective in this study was to compare suicidality (SI/attempt [SA]) between patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and CP and a matched control group. The secondary objective was to compare length of stay, total hospital costs, and discharge disposition in these populations.

STUDY DESIGN

The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) dataset developed by the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project was used for this study. The NIS is a database of hospital inpatient stays derived from billing data submitted by hospitals to statewide data organizations across the United States. We obtained patient records from the NIS dataset for the years 2006 to 2017. All data were de-identified so Institutional Review Board approval was waived.

METHODS

We used mean and standard error to describe continuous data and counts (percentage) to describe categorical data. Categorical data were compared using Rao-Scott adjusted chi-square tests and continuous data were compared using Student's t tests. Matching was performed using propensity scores in random order with a caliper size of 0.001. To assess predictors associated with suicidality, logistic regression analysis was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 393,481 patients having MDD with CP (MDD+CP) were included in the analysis. The mean age was 49.4 years, and 54.9% of patients were women. Overall, rate of composite outcome of SI/SA was more prevalent in MDD+CP group (51% vs 41%, P < 0.001). Rate of SI was 48% vs 39% (P < 0.001) in the MDD+CP and MDD without CP (MDD-CP) groups, respectively. MDD+CP was one of the strongest predictors of suicidality, responsible for 48% more risk of SI/SA compared to MDD-CP group. In comparison to non-Whites, the rate of suicidality was 7.5% less in White population. Alcohol abuse and substance abuse were associated with 17% and 8% greater risk of SI/SA, respectively. For women, the odds of having SI/SA was 1.20 greater compared to men.

LIMITATIONS

No information was available on the causal relationship between MDD+CP disorder and SI/SA. Retrospective studies are susceptible to recognition, reporting, and coding bias. There is no information available on medications use or the duration and severity of CP and bipolar disorder, which can all be confounding factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Psychiatrists and other physicians must be cognizant of the presence of CP and the risk of suicide, especially when patients present with depressive symptoms. The treatment plan for this patient population should include routine screening for pain symptoms and risk assessment for SI.

Psychiatric Comorbidities in Adults with DiGeorge Syndrome

Objective

DiGeorge Syndrome (DGS) is a common multisystem disorder associated with deletions on chromosome 22q11.2. Our objective is to evaluate the psychiatric comorbidities and demographics of patients suffering from DGS in a nationally representative dataset on inpatient hospitalizations.

Methods

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample for the year 2005−2017 was used for this study. Data on patients with DiGeorge syndrome were collected by using the International Classification of Diseases code. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results

In our study, the average age was 30.4 years (n = 6,563), with 59.9% male, and 61.8% of patients were white. There was a high prevalence of mood disorders (24.7%) and anxiety disorders (16.4%), followed by schizophrenia and other psychotic condition (14.0%). In patients with mood disorders, 8% had Major Depressive Disorder, and 7% had bipolar depression. Overall composite of psychiatric comorbidities was present in 2,959 (45.1%) of patients. The mean length of stay was 6.58 days, and 77% of patients had routine discharge to home. In the adjusted analysis, the average length of stay was 8.6 days vs. 6.7 days (p < 0.001) in patients with and without psychiatry comorbidities. In comparison to routine discharge, patients with psychiatry comorbidities were more likely to be discharged to other healthcare facilities (odds ratio [OR] 1.28, p < 0.001) and discharged against medical advice (OR 3.45, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Patients with DGS have worse outcomes with a higher rate of discharge to other healthcare facilities and a higher rate of being discharged against medical advice. Further large scale randomize studies are indicated.

Risk of Suicide in Patients With Bipolar Disorder Having Comorbid Chronic Pain Disorders: Insights From the Nationwide Inpatient Sample Data From 2016 to 2018

ABSTRACT

Bipolar disorders (BDs) are associated with significant risk of suicide. BD patients (age ≥18 years) admitted to the hospital were identified from the National Inpatient Sample dataset. Based on the secondary diagnosis of chronic pain disorder (CPD), patients were stratified into two groups (1) BD with CPD (BD + CPD) and (2) BD without CPD (BD - CPD). Groups were matched (1:1) for the type of BD and compared for baseline characteristics and suicidal ideation/attempt (SI/SA). Compared with BD - CPD, most patients in the BD + CPD group were older (mean age, 47.6 vs. 40.4 years), female (58.4% vs. 55.2%), and white (77.2% vs. 66.7%). After adjusting for covariates, compared with the BD - CPD group, the BD + CPD group had 21% more risk of SI/SA (odds ratio, 1.21, p < 0.001). CPD is independently associated with the increased risk of suicide among patients with BD. Thus, comorbid CPD among patients admitted for BD can be an essential risk factor for suicide.

Psychosocial Interventions for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by the CADDRA Guidelines Work GROUP

Multiple psychosocial interventions to treat ADHD symptoms have been developed and empirically tested. However, no clear recommendations exist regarding the utilization of these interventions for treating core ADHD symptoms across different populations. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis by the CADDRA Guidelines work Group was to generate such recommendations, using recent evidence. Randomized controlled trials (RCT) and meta-analyses (MA) from 2010 to 13 February 2020 were searched in PubMed, PsycINFO, EMBASE, EBM Reviews and CINAHL. Studies of populations with significant levels of comorbidities were excluded. Thirty-one studies were included in the qualitative synthesis (22 RCT, 9 MA) and 24 studies (19 RCT, 5 MA) were included in the quantitative synthesis. Using three-level meta-analyses to pool results of multiple observations from each RCT, as well as four-level meta-analyses to pool results from multiples outcomes and multiple studies of each MA, we generated recommendations using the GRADE approach for: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Physical Exercise and Mind–Body intervention; Caregiver intervention; School-based and Executive intervention; and other interventions for core ADHD symptoms across Preschooler, Child, Adolescent and Adult populations. The evidence supports a recommendation for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for adults and Caregiver intervention for Children, but not for preschoolers. There were not enough data to provide recommendations for the other types of psychosocial interventions. Our results are in line with previous meta-analytic assessments; however, they provide a more in-depth assessment of the effect of psychosocial intervention on core ADHD symptoms.

Mental health disparities amongst sexual-minority adolescents of the US - A national survey study of YRBSS-CDC

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate the prevalence and trend of identifying as a sexual minority among the American adolescent population. Additionally, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence and odds of substance abuse, hopelessness, and suicidality among the sexual minority adolescents compared to their heterosexual peers.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cross-sectional study using Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) data from 2015 to 2019. YRBSS divides "Sexual identity" into three groups: heterosexuals, sexual minorities (gay or lesbian or bisexual), and unsure. We identified "hopelessness and suicidality" using the survey questions exploring if participants felt sad or hopeless for >2 weeks, considered suicide, made a suicide plan, and attempted suicide requiring medical care. Univariate and multivariable survey logistic regression analyses were performed to establish an association between hopelessness, suicidality, substance abuse, and identifying as a sexual minority.

RESULTS

Out of 41,377 adolescents, 4055 (9.8%) identified as a sexual minority. An increasing percentage of adolescents identified themselves as a sexual minority between 2015 to 2019 (8% to 11.2%) (pTrend<0.0001). The sexual minority had a higher prevalence of feeling sad and hopeless (63.4 vs. 28.6%), considering suicide (46 vs. 14.2%), planning suicide (38.9 vs. 11.5%), attempting suicide, and having injurious suicide attempts compared to heterosexuals. (p<0.0001) Amongst sexual minorities, the prevalence of substance abuse was higher compared to their heterosexual peers, which includes cigarettes (15 vs 7.8%), e-cigarette (27.2 vs 23.2%), inhalants (14.1 vs 5.3%), cocaine (8.4 vs 3.9%), marijuana (31.2 vs 20.2%), alcohol (36.9 vs 30.3%), steroids (6.4 vs 2.2%), heroin (4.4 vs 1.2%), and injectable drugs (4.0 vs 1.1%) (p<0.0001). In regression analysis, the sexual minority had higher odds of substance abuse, feeling sad and hopeless (aOR:4.6; 95%CI:4.0-5.2; p<0.0001), considering suicide (3.2; 2.8-3.7; p<0.0001), planning suicide (2.0; 1.7-2.3; p<0.0001) compared to heterosexual.

CONCLUSION

Sexual minorities not only have higher prevalence and odds of hopelessness and suicidality but also have higher prevalence and odds of substance abuse like cigarettes, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, inhalants, and steroids. Hence, early identification, risk stratification, and interventions to reduce mental health disparities are needed.

The Association of Psychological Stressors With Cannabis Use During Pregnancy: Findings From the National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2017-2019

ABSTRACT

Even though marijuana is illegal on the federal level, it is one of the most used drugs in the United States during pregnancy. Our study investigates the relationship between numerous socioeconomic, demographic, and mental health risk variables and substance use during pregnancy. We examined data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health from 2017 to 2019. Compared with the no serious psychological distress (SPD) group, the odds of using cannabis were higher in pregnant women with past-month SPD. In this study, in comparison with unmarried pregnant women, married pregnant women had a 67% lower chance of currently using cannabis. Racially, Hispanic pregnant women had 3 to 4 times higher odds for current use of cannabis as compared with the other races. Preventing cannabis use and its adverse effects by screening pregnant women could be part of the current strategy for reducing cannabis use.

Trends in ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy) Utilization During Pregnancy and Post-Partum Period: National Inpatient Sample 2002-2015

Introduction

The use of Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) during pregnancy and in the post-partum period is a critical decision for both providers and their patients. ECT utilization during this critical period needs to be better understood to assess the need and allocate resources for this valuable treatment option.

Objectives

1) To evaluates baseline characteristics and analyze ECT utilization trends for pregnant and post-partum patients hospitalized in the US. 2) To provide insight into ECT use among inpatient pregnant women with different age groups with various comorbid psychiatric disorders.

Methods

The study used the 2002-2015 National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample (NIS) data. Descriptive statistical and trend analyses were conducted to evaluate data.

Results

A study found that a total of 924 pregnancy-related hospitalizations required ECT treatment; 92.2% of these ECTs were conducted in urban hospitals. The mean age of women was 30.3 years, and the majority (71%) were of the White race. Mood disorders (major depressive disorder- 51.9% and bipolar disorder- 37.9%) accounted for the most common comorbid psychiatric illnesses. The payer source (Medicare/Medicaid vs. Private Insurance) was almost equal (47.9 vs. 46.8). Though not statistically significant, the trend analysis showed that the proportion of ECTs during pregnancy out of the total ECT performed for the year almost doubled (0.24% to 0.47%) from 2008 to 2015.

Conclusions

Though not statistically significant, the use of ECT in pregnant women has increased in 2015 compared to 2002. Results will help clinicians, policymakers, and various stakeholders to optimize ECT utilization, reimbursement and ultimately improve clinical outcomes.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

Suicide in Adolescents with Mood Disorders

Introduction

Adolescents patients presenting with mood disorders, including disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), often present with the comorbid disorders such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Objectives

1) Evaluate the association between suicide in adolescents and various mood disorders. 2) To study the impact of comorbid conditions in DMDD on suicide ideation and attempt in adolescents.

Methods

We used 2016-2017 National Inpatient Sample dataset to select patients with mood disorders. Rao Scott adjusted Chi-Square test used to compare the groups with SPSS v26.

Results

In this study, 15195 patients were in the DMDD group (Mean age:12.1,F: 38%) and 219205 in the ‘other mood disorders’ group (Mean age:14.4,F:67%). The odds of SI/SA were two times more in patients with the ‘other type of mood disorder’ (OR:2.07, 95%CI: 1.77-2.14). Patients with the primary diagnosis of DMDD sub-classified into four groups (Group 1: DMDD only (n=5160), Group 2: DMDD+ADHD (n=7240), Group 3: DMDD +ODD (n=700), and Group 4: DMDD+ADHD+ODD (n=2095). SI/SA was prevalent in 30.8%, 26.0%, 22.9% and 26.3% in Group 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively (p: 0.03). SI/SA was more prevalent in females compared to males (31.3% vs. 25.2%). An increase of 1 year in age was associated with a higher SI/SA (OR:1.05, 95%CI:1.01-1.08, 0.01). The SI/SA odds were 5% more in female patients (OR:1.27, p:0.01).

Conclusions

The study reveals that the risk of suicide ideation or suicide attempt is almost twice in the adolescent with mood disorders without DMDD compared to the DMDD group.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

Bullying victimization in children and adolescents and its impact on academic outcomes

Introduction

Bullying is a serious problem in schools because of the negative impact on a child’s educational outcomes, especially academic achievement. However, the underlying mechanisms and causes are unknown.

Objectives

To evaluate the educational outcomes, and psychiatric comorbidities in children and adolescents who are victims of bullying

Methods

We used 2018–2019 Nationwide Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH) dataset for the study. The participants were children and adolescents (age: 6-17 years, n = 42,790). Data was stratified into two groups: 1) never bullied 2) bullied more than once. Prevalence of different educational outcomes were compared between the groups.

Results

In the never bullied group 21,015 participants were included, and in the bullied more than once group 21,775 participants were included. More females were in the bullied group compared to never bullied group (50.4% vs 47.5%, p=0.006). More White non- Hispanic individuals were in bullied group in contrast to never bullied group (56.7% vs 43.9%, p< 0.001). Individuals whose health status was fair, or poor were bullied more (2.4% vs 1.4%, p=<0.001). Individuals in bullied group were more likely to be repeating the grades compared to the never bullied group (7.1% vs 5.9%, p:0.039). Individuals who were missing >=11 school days, and sometimes or never engaged in school were observed more in bullied group compared to never bullied group (5.9% vs 3.2% and 20.3% vs 10.6% p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that bullying victimization could be a risk factor and associated with decreased academic outcomes.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

Bright Light Therapy for MDD in Children and Adolescents: a narrative review of literature

Introduction

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a common mood disorder diagnosed in children and adolescents. Bright light therapy has been effective for seasonal affective disorders, however its role in the treatment of MDD is under studied.

Objectives

Our objective is to evaluate if bright light therapy (BLT) is a practical approach in treating Child and Adolescents having MDD.

Methods

We performed an extensive literature search using a wide range of MeSH terms in PubMed, PubMed Central and Google Scholar. We reviewed the literature for studies (published between 1983-2021) assessing the efficacy of BLT in the treatment of MDD in children and adolescents.

Results

The final search results yielded 8 randomized clinical trials and 1 case report from 1983 to 2021. BLT showed a superior effect in children and adolescents with MDD compared to the control group in the majority of the randomized trials and a case report. In six studies BLT showed good effect, however in a study by Magnusson et al. and Sonis et al., found a milder degree of improvement in depression symptoms when compared to the control group. In the majority of the studies, patients’ age range was 7 years 18 and in most of the studies, patients were not on antidepressants.

Conclusions

The use of BLT in children and adolescents suffering from MDD can be a promising alternative method of biological treatment, which is effective as well as well tolerated. Future long-term studies on large sample size are necessary in this field.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

0694 Safety and Efficacy of Ashwagandha for sleep: A Systematic Review

Introduction

Ashwagandha has been around for about two thousand years. It is known as Indian Ginseng, winter cherry, and poison gooseberry. In recent years, the benefits of Ashwagandha tohave been explored in various studies due to the popularity of alternative therapeutic options in masses worldwide. Sleep is vital to the rejuvenation of the mind and body by replenishing the energy to carry on life activities. Sleep disorder is a major limitation in living life to full potential and Ashwagandha, known as beneficial for reducing stress and anxiety, is proven to improve the quality of sleep in individuals. In this systematic review, we study the efficacy of Ashwagandha in improving sleep and its safety for its users.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using relevant MeSH keywords, “Withania” and “Aswagandha” in the context of “Sleep,” “Sleep-Wake Disorders,” or “Sleepiness” in PubMed, PubMed Central, Medline, Web of Science, Biosis, and SciELO databases. We identified all published relevant articles from inception until 11/20/2021 and included 8 studies in our final qualitative synthesis review.

Results

Ashwagandha has been shown to have beneficial effects in decreasing time to fallasleep, improving duration, quality of sleep, and mood upon awakening. Many studies demonstrated these beneficial effects with clinical significance using multiple rating scales of assessment. Most studies explored the safety profile of Ashwagandha for the subjects. In most studies, there were no adverse events reported, and its use is termed safe and beneficial. Few studies reported some minor side effects, such as in a randomized clinical trial, RCT, by Deshpande A. et al. (2020), headaches, fever, acid reflux, and allergic dermatitis were reported.1A randomized clinical trial by Langade D. et al. in 2019 showed that Ashwagandha shortens the sleep onset latency significantly (p,0.019) after 10 weeks of with test [29.00(7.14)] compared to placebo [33.94(7.65)]. There was a significant improvement in sleep efficiency, SE scores at 83.48 (2.83) after 10 weeks 75.63(2.70) for the test at the baseline compared to placebo.2 In another pilot study by Sharma H. et al. (2007), there was a significant improvement in sleep duration, sleep quality (91.67%, p&lt;0.001), and mood upon awakening (88.89%, p&lt;0.001).3

Conclusion

The findings support the efficacy of Ashwagandha for improving sleep quality. Due to the limited availability of data and well-designed studies warrants further research through cohort studies and clinical trials to determine the exact mechanism of action and benefits for sleep.

Support (If Any)

References:1. Deshpande, A., Irani, N., Balkrishnan, R., & Benny, I. R. (2020). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on sleep quality in healthy adults. Sleep medicine, 72, 28–36. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2020.03.0122. Langade, D., Kanchi, S., Salve, J., Debnath, K., & Ambegaokar, D. (2019). Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Insomnia and Anxiety: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo-controlled Study. Cureus, 11(9), e5797. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.57973. Sharma, H., Chandola, H. M., Singh, G., & Basisht, G. (2007). Utilization of Ayurveda in health care: an approach for prevention, health promotion, and treatment of disease. Part 2--Ayurveda in primary health care. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.), 13(10), 1135–1150. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2007.7017-B

Does Insomnia Increase the Risk of Suicide in Hospitalized Patients with Major Depressive Disorder? A Nationwide Inpatient Analysis from 2006 to 2015

Introduction. Insomnia is an important symptom associated with major depressive disorder (MDD). In addition, it is one of the risk factors for suicide. Studies have shown the relationship be-tween insomnia and suicidal behavior in patients with MDD. However, this association has not been evaluated in a large sample of hospitalized patients. Objectives. To evaluate the suicidal be-havior in MDD patients with insomnia compared to those without insomnia. Methods. From the National Inpatient Sample (NIS 2006−2015) database using the ICD-9 code, patients’ data were obtained with the primary diagnosis of MDD and comorbid diagnosis of insomnia disorders (MDD+I). These patients were compared with MDD patients without insomnia disorders (MDD−I) by performing a 1:2 match for the primary diagnosis code. Suicidal ideation/attempt da-ta were compared between the groups by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results. After the diagnostic code matching, 139061 patients were included in the MDD+I group and 276496 patients in the MDD−I group. MDD+I patients were older (47 years vs. 45 years, p < 0.001) com-pared to the MDD−I group. The rate of suicidal ideation/attempt was 56.0% in the MDD+I group and 42.0% in the MDD−I group (p < 0.001). After adjusting for age, sex, race, borderline personal-ity disorders, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders, ‘insomnia’ was associated with 1.71 times higher odds of suicidal behavior among MDD patients admitted to the hospital. (Odds ratio: 1.71, 95% confidence interval 1.60−1.82, p < 0.001). Conclusions. Insomnia among MDD patients is significantly associated with the risk of suicide. MDD patients with insomnia need to be closely monitored for suicidal behavior.

Clozapine for Management of Childhood and Adolescent-Onset Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Schizophrenia at a young age deserves investigation because of the greater severity and burden of illness on individuals and health care than its adult onset. For this study, we included both childhood-onset schizophrenia and early-onset schizophrenia. We used the common term "childhood and adolescent-onset schizophrenia (CAOS)" for either type. This systematic review provides an overview of the clinical use, efficacy, and safety of clozapine treatment in managing CAOS. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed, Embase, and PsycINFO databases. We searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs), open-label studies (OLSs), review articles, meta-analytic and observational studies. Our literature search resulted in 1242 search results. After the title, abstract, and full article review, 18 studies qualified (double-blind RCTs n = 4; OLS n = 4; observational studies n = 7; case reports n = 3). Results: Clozapine use in CAOS was generally well tolerated and not associated with any fatalities. Clozapine use in the short term (6 weeks) and long term (2-9 years) was superior in efficacy than other antipsychotics in CAOS management. Improvement in overall symptoms was maintained during long-term follow-up over the years in OLSs. Clozapine appeared to have a favorable clinical response and shorter hospital stays. Sedation and hypersalivation were commonly reported (90%), constipation was next in frequency (13%-50%). Neutropenia was seen in 6%-15% of cases and agranulocytosis (<0.1%). Although weight gain was common (up to 64%), followed by metabolic changes (8%-22%), treatment-onset diabetes was less frequent (<6%). Akathisia, tachycardia, and blood pressure changes were less commonly seen. Conclusions: Limited studies indicate that clozapine is a safe and efficacious option for CAOS management. We need large-scale and well-designed long-term RCTs for the use of clozapine in the management of CAOS.

Homicidal ideation and psychiatric comorbidities in the inpatient adolescents aged 12-17

OBJECTIVES

Adolescents with a homicidal tendency is a growing concern in the United States. Studies in the past have showcased the relationship between homicidal ideation (HI) and psychiatric illnesses, but very limited information is available on the adolescent and inpatient population. We aim to evaluate the prevalence of demographic characteristics and psychiatric disorders in adolescents with and without HI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adolescent (age 12-17) population admitted to the hospital with the diagnosis of homicidal ideation was identified from the 2016-2018 National Inpatient Sample Dataset (NISD). Patients without HI were defined as the control group. The prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities between the groups was compared by applying the Rao-Scott adjusted chi-square test. We used multivariable logistic regression to generate odds ratio (OR) of homicidal ideation as an outcome; we adjusted age, sex, race, socioeconomic status, substance use disorders, alcohol use disorders, and psychiatric comorbidities.

RESULTS

A total of 18,935 patients (mean age: 14.5) with HI diagnosis were identified in this study. Majority of the patients were male subjects in the HI group compared to the control group (58.7 vs. 41.2%, p < 0.001). Racially, HI was more prevalent in white race (56.0 vs. 52.6%, p < 0.001) and black race (22.3 vs. 17.8%, p < 0.001), compared to Hispanic race (14.9 vs. 21.3%, p < 0.001). Major depression (Odds ratio [OR]: 2.66, p < 0.001), bipolar disorder (OR: 3.52, p < 0.001), anxiety disorder (OR: 1.85, p < 0.001), ADHD, and other conduct disorders (OR: 4.01, p < 0.001), schizophrenia (OR: 4.35, p < 0.001) are strong predictors of HI. Suicidality was prevalent in 66.9% of patients with HI.

CONCLUSION

We found a higher prevalence of psychiatric illnesses such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder in adolescents with homicidal ideation in the inpatient setting. White and black races were more prevalent in patients with homicidal ideation. Further large-scale longitudinal research studies are warranted to establish the correlation between psychiatric disorders and homicidal ideation among adolescents.

Pimavanserin in the Treatment of Parkinson's Disease Psychosis: Meta-analysis and Meta-regression of Randomized Clinical Trials

BACKGROUND

Up to 60 percent of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) develop Parkinson's disease psychosis (PDP). PDP is associated with a significant economic burden. The management of PDP has been divided into two approaches-one focuses on decreasing the doses of anti-Parkinsonian medications and the other involves prescribing atypical antipsychotics. Of these atypical antipsychotics, pimavanserin is United States (US) Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved specifically for the treatment of PDP.

OBJECTIVE

The goal was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pimavanserin in the treatment of PDP based on data from randomized clinical trials.

METHODS

All the articles, which assessed pimavanserin's effect on the treatment of PDP, were retrieved from Google Scholar, PubMed, and abstracts from annual scientific sessions. The data on dose, therapy duration, patient numbers, and study duration were collected. These data were analyzed with random effect modeling using the inverse variance method and the Mantel-Haenszel method.

RESULTS

Four studies comparing pimavanserin to a placebo provided data on 680 patients (263 placebo, 417 pimavanserin). Treatment with pimavanserin was associated with a significant reduction in scores using the Scale of Assessment of Positive Symptoms, Hallucinations, and Delusion (SAPS-H+D) (mean difference [MD]: -1.55 [-2.71, -0.379], p=0.009). The groups had similar composite scores for Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale II and III (UPDRS II and III) (MD: 0.093 [-1.28, 1.46], p=0.89). Interestingly, pimavanserin was protective against orthostatic hypotension (risk ratio: 0.33 [0.30, 0.37], p<0.001). All other adverse events were similarly distributed across both groups.

CONCLUSION

There was a significant improvement in psychosis symptoms in patients with PD who took pimavanserin. Pimavanserin was also shown to be protective against orthostatic hypotension.

The role of metformin in treatment of weight gain associated with atypical antipsychotic treatment in children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

Second-generation antipsychotics are associated with significant weight gain. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the efficacy and safety of metformin for the treatment of weight gain in children and young adults treated with second-generation antipsychotics.

METHODS

We followed PRISMA guidelines to evaluated studies published before March 2020 in Medline, Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane library database, annual scientific sessions of the American Psychiatric Association, American Academy of Child and Adolescent, Psychiatry, and American Society of Clinical Psychopharmacology. Studies included compared metformin with the placebo for management of weight gain in children and adolescents taking atypical antipsychotics. Non-randomized studies, animal experiment studies, editorials, and review studies were excluded. Multiple parameters, including change in anthropometric-biochemical parameters, drug discontinuation rate, and side effects among the groups were assessed. The random-effects method was used for meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Four studies with were included in the final analysis (213 patients; metformin: 106; control: 107). After pooled analysis, 12-16 weeks of metformin therapy was associated with a significant reduction in weight [(mean difference (MD): -4.53 lbs, confidence interval (CI): -6.19 to -2.87, p-value < 0.001)], and BMI z score [MD, -0.09, CI: -0.16, -0.03, p-value: 0.004] compared to control. Metformin was also associated with a significant reduction in insulin resistance [MD: -1.38, CI: -2.26 to -0.51, p-value: 0.002]. There were higher odds of nausea-vomiting [OR: 4.07, CI: 1.32-12.54, p-value: 0.02] and diarrhea [OR: 2.93, CI: 1.50-5.71, p-value: 0.002] in the metformin group. However, there was no difference in drug discontinuation rate [OR: 1.45, CI: 0.41-5.06, p-value: 0.56].

CONCLUSION

Metformin may prove beneficial in the treatment of weight gain in children treated with second-generation antipsychotics. The pooled treatment effect showed a significant reduction in BMI Z-score and weight in just 12-16 weeks. The limitations include small sample size, variation in metformin dose, and duration of treatment. This meta-analysis should be interpreted as promising, and further larger studies are warranted before drawing a conclusion.