Update on New and Emerging Treatments for Schizophrenia

Psychiatr Clin North Am. 2016 Jun;39(2):217-38. doi: 10.1016/j.psc.2016.01.005. Epub 2016 Mar 4.

Abstract

Although there has been more than 50 years of development, there remains a great need for better antipsychotic medications. This article looks at the recent advances in treatment of schizophrenia. New hypotheses have been suggested that may replace or complement the dopamine hypotheses. The article explores the different novel drugs that impact some of the key neurotransmitter systems currently. Phosphodiesterase 10A inhibitors and α-7 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor modulators constitute the majority. The marketing of these medications eventually may result in change about how schizophrenia is treated.

Keywords: Advances; Antipsychotics; Cognition; Negative symptoms; Schizophrenia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antipsychotic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Approval*
  • Excitatory Amino Acid Agents / therapeutic use
  • Glycine Agents / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Minocycline / therapeutic use
  • Nicotinic Agonists / therapeutic use
  • Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Piperazines / therapeutic use
  • Piperidines / therapeutic use
  • Schizophrenia / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Excitatory Amino Acid Agents
  • Glycine Agents
  • Nicotinic Agonists
  • Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
  • Piperazines
  • Piperidines
  • blonanserin
  • Minocycline