Neuroprotective agents in schizophrenia and affective disorders

Abstract

With the exception of dementia, the use of neuroprotective agents in psychiatric disorders is not yet well established. However, recent data from brain imaging studies and clinical trials support the view that neurodegenerative mechanisms may play a role in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and affective disorders. Further evidence for the use of neuroprotective agents can be drawn from the findings that second-generation antipsychotics, mood stabilisers and antidepressants have been shown to have neuroprotective effects in vitro and in vivo. Neuroprotective agents as add-on therapies (e.g., modafinil, erythropoietin, glycine, d-serine, memantine and celecoxib) are currently being evaluated in schizophrenia and related disorders. This paper reviews the current options for neuroprotective treatment approaches focusing on schizophrenia and affective disorders.

Keywords::

• affective disorder
• glutamate
• neurodegeneration
• neuroprotection
• neurogenesis
• schizophrenia

Acknowledgement

This work was supported in part by a grant of the Stanley Medical Research Institute (02T-247) to Martin Schaefer.

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