The behavioral effect of m-chlorophenylpiperazine (mCPP) and methylphenidate in first-episode schizophrenia and normal controls

Neuropsychopharmacology. 1997 Jan;16(1):61-8. doi: 10.1016/S0893-133X(96)00160-1.

Abstract

Although there has been renewed interest in the serotonin (5-HT) system in schizophrenia, direct evidence for 5-HT dysfunction is limited. This study compares the responses of m-chlorophenyl-piperazine (mCPP), a 5-HT agonist, in first-episode schizophrenia and a known psychotogenic dopamine agonist, methylphenidate. Eighteen patients experiencing their first episode of psychosis and eight healthy controls received methylphenidate (0.5 mg/kg) and mCPP (0.1 mg/kg) intravenously. Behavioral assessments were done before and after the procedure, and a peak response to each agent was rated. Methylphenidate, but not mCPP, produced psychotic symptoms in patients. mCPP did decrease anxiety, hallucinations, and anger and increased agitation, somatic concern, and impaired understandability. Both agents had limited effects on controls. In conclusion, unlike methylphenidate, mCPP did not produce psychotic symptom activation in schizophrenic patients in, and its effects appeared to be nonspecific.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Behavior / drug effects*
  • Dopamine Uptake Inhibitors / administration & dosage
  • Dopamine Uptake Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infusions, Intravenous
  • Male
  • Methylphenidate / administration & dosage
  • Methylphenidate / pharmacology*
  • Piperazines / administration & dosage
  • Piperazines / pharmacology*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Psychoses, Substance-Induced / psychology
  • Schizophrenic Psychology*
  • Serotonin Receptor Agonists / administration & dosage
  • Serotonin Receptor Agonists / pharmacology*
  • Single-Blind Method

Substances

  • Dopamine Uptake Inhibitors
  • Piperazines
  • Serotonin Receptor Agonists
  • Methylphenidate
  • 1-(3-chlorophenyl)piperazine