Update on novel antipsychotics and pharmacological strategies for treatment-resistant schizophrenia

Abstract

Introduction: Treatment resistant schizophrenia (TRS), the lack of response to at least two antipsychotics administered at adequate dose and duration, epitomizes in psychiatry one of the most difficult-to-treat pathologies, epidemiologically relevant (affecting one-third of schizophrenia patients) and with severe consequences for the patients in terms of overall functioning. After 50 years, only one drug is approved for TRS: clozapine. Furthermore, a few patients do not respond even to clozapine and are indicated as clozapine-resistant patients.

Areas covered: In this review and expert opinion, we have critically appraised the current literature, discussing the role of old and new agents in treating resistant schizophrenia.

Expert opinion: The search for therapy against TRS, beyond clozapine or in addition to clozapine, has emerged over time, capturing mainly three types of strategies: 1. Add-on of a second-generation antipsychotic (i.e. amisulpride); 2. Add-on of a second antipsychotic with significantly different receptor profile compared to the older ones (e.g. aripiprazole and cariprazine); 3. Novel strategies beyond dopamine D2/D3 receptor occupancy (e.g. xanomeline + trospium, TAAR1-agonists, sodium benzoate, and D-amino acids). More high-quality clinical trials applying the current operationalized criteria for TRS and clozapine-resistance are required to evaluate the efficacy of alternative and add-on treatments.

Keywords: antipsychotics; clozapine; clozapine augmentation; refractory psychosis; treatment resistant schizophrenia.