When the drugs don't work: the potential of glutamatergic antipsychotics in schizophrenia

Br J Psychiatry. 2013 Feb:202:91-3. doi: 10.1192/bjp.bp.112.110999.

Abstract

Currently available antipsychotic drugs target dopaminergic neurotransmission. Many patients do not respond fully to these treatments, and there has been considerable effort to investigate alternative targets. Here we summarise the rationale and recent evidence supporting efforts to develop glutamatergic antipsychotic drugs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Allosteric Regulation
  • Antipsychotic Agents / pharmacology
  • Dopamine D2 Receptor Antagonists
  • Excitatory Amino Acid Agents / pharmacology*
  • Humans
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Receptors, Glutamate / drug effects*
  • Schizophrenia / drug therapy*
  • Schizophrenia / metabolism
  • Treatment Failure

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Dopamine D2 Receptor Antagonists
  • Excitatory Amino Acid Agents
  • Receptors, Glutamate