Latest news with #antipsychotics
Yahoo
11-08-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Newron Notes the Publication of New Preclinical Research Suggesting Evenamide Ameliorates Schizophrenia-Related Dysfunction
Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR New findings published in Neuropsychopharmacology are the first to demonstrate that evenamide targets the key site of schizophrenia pathology in the hippocampus, and so could be an ideal therapeutic agent for treatment of the disorder Systemic, acute administration of evenamide in the neurodevelopment MAM model of schizophrenia improved positive, negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia Time-course analysis indicates effects of a single dose of evenamide last long after elimination of drug, suggesting effect on neuronal plasticity Evenamide's glutamate modulation may improve overall outcomes in poorly responding or treatment resistant patients with schizophrenia on current antipsychotics, offering a novel strategy for managing the disorder MILAN & MORRISTOWN, N.J., August 11, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Newron Pharmaceuticals S.p.A. ("Newron") (SIX: NWRN, XETRA: NP5), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of novel therapies for diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system, notes the publication of new preclinical research in the peer-reviewed journal Neuropsychopharmacology on the unique mechanism and site of action of evenamide as a potential treatment for schizophrenia.1 The findings by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh, using the neurodevelopmental methylazoxymethanol acetate (MAM) animal model, indicated that evenamide, Newron's first-in-class glutamate modulator, could offer a novel therapeutic strategy capable of addressing positive, cognitive, and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting approximately 1% of the world's population, and is characterized by positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms. However, current dopamine D2 antagonist-based antipsychotic drugs only address primarily positive symptoms. It is known that limbic hippocampus hyperexcitability is a key pathological state of schizophrenia and therefore represents an ideal therapeutic target. This newly published research shows how evenamide, a selective voltage-gated sodium channel blocker, uniquely targets hippocampal hyperexcitability and selectively inhibits hyperactive neurons. Additionally, time-course analysis indicates effects of a single dose of evenamide last long after its elimination, suggesting evenamide may have an effect on neuronal plasticity. Studies to date suggest evenamide is devoid of activity at any other central nervous system target, and it normalizes excessive synaptic glutamate induced by NMDA hypofunction. "The study examined the effect of acute evenamide treatment on the hyperdopaminergic state, hippocampal hyperexcitability, social deficits, and recognition memory in the methylazoxymethanol acetate (MAM) neurodevelopmental model," explained Daniela L. Uliana, first author of the study, from the Departments of Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Psychology of the University of Pittsburgh. "The MAM model consists of injecting MAM during gestational day 17 into pregnant rats at a time that approximates the human second trimester; a period of vulnerability in pregnancy during which prenatal disruptions can result in increased schizophrenia incidence in adults. The MAM-treated rats show multiple anatomical, behavioral, neurochemical, and physiological changes consistent with schizophrenia." "The study findings suggest that evenamide has high therapeutic potential for treating multiple symptom domains of schizophrenia," said Senior study author Dr. Anthony A. Grace of the University of Pittsburgh. "Evenamide is a unique NCE agent in acting at the site of the deficit in schizophrenia by reducing hippocampal hyperexcitability. This represents a significant advancement in treatment, as evenamide can downregulate the hyperdopaminergic state without producing D2 blockade-related side effects while also improving behavioral deficits that are not properly treated by D2 blocking antipsychotic agents." "The recognition memory improvement induced by evenamide in the study's MAM model may indicate that it may also enhance cognitive function in patients with schizophrenia and ultimately lead to a better functional outcome," continued Grace. "Current D2-based antipsychotic agents do not effectively address cognitive symptoms, which limits their overall efficacy and produces a significant functional burden on patients. Therefore, evenamide would offer advantages over existing antipsychotic drugs by targeting positive symptoms, cognitive deficits and social isolation." "This study provides important learnings, which explain the results of our earlier Phase II and Phase III trials in patients with chronic schizophrenia. The prolonged effect in the MAM model explains the continuing improvement in symptoms even one year after starting treatment with evenamide in TRS patients in our phase 2 trial. In the Phase 3 trial in patients who were not responding to their current 2nd-generation antipsychotic drugs, including clozapine, the addition of evenamide led to significant improvements on the primary efficacy measure (PANSS total) as well as a clinically and statistically significant increases in responder rates," said Ravi Anand, Newron's CMO. "The preclinical and clinical results suggest high likelihood of success for our ongoing pivotal Phase III program and to potentially offering a completely new treatment paradigm to patients with schizophrenia." About schizophrenia Approximately 25 million people worldwide are affected by schizophrenia. Despite more than 60 different types of atypical and typical antipsychotics used to treat schizophrenia globally, a considerable number of patients remain severely ill or resistant to treatment. Overall, 30-50% of patients do not respond to the available medications and are defined as treatment resistant. In addition to the patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS), another 20-30% are described as "poor responders to antipsychotic medication", even if not meeting the criteria for TRS. New findings indicate that patients with TRS have abnormalities in the glutamatergic system, but not in dopaminergic transmission, so there is a significant unmet medical need for treatments with a glutamatergic mechanism of action, efficacious both in TRS patients and in those who are poor responders to the current treatments. About evenamide Evenamide is the first new chemical entity that has demonstrated significant benefits in this difficult-to-treat patient population, as seen in the potentially pivotal Phase III study 008A trial, as an add-on treatment to second generation antipsychotics including clozapine, in 291 poorly responding patients with chronic schizophrenia. The primary endpoint, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS)2, and the key secondary endpoint, the Clinical Global Impressions Scale – Severity (CGI-S), were met and showed statistical significance compared to placebo. Importantly, evenamide treatment was associated with statistically significant increases in the proportion of patients who experienced "clinically meaningful benefit" on the outcome variables. Evenamide was extremely well tolerated, without any of the usual side effects of available antipsychotics. About Newron Pharmaceuticals Newron (SIX: NWRN, XETRA: NP5) is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapies for patients with diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system. Headquartered in Bresso, near Milan, Italy, Newron is advancing its lead compound, evenamide, a first-in-class glutamate modulator, which has the potential to be the first add-on therapy for treatment-resistant schizophrenia (TRS) and for poorly responding patients with schizophrenia. Evenamide is currently in Phase III development and clinical trial results to date demonstrate the benefits of this drug candidate in the TRS patient population, with significant improvements across key efficacy measures increasing over time, as well as a favourable safety profile, which is uncommon for available antipsychotic medications. Newron has signed development and commercialization agreements for evenamide with EA Pharma (a subsidiary of Eisai) for Japan and other Asian territories, as well as Myung In Pharm for South Korea. Newron has a proven track record in bringing CNS therapies to market. Its Parkinson's disease treatment, Xadago® (safinamide), is approved in over 20 markets, including the USA, UK, EU, Switzerland, and Japan, and commercialized in partnerships with Zambon and Meiji Seika. For more information, please visit: Important Notices This document contains forward-looking statements, including (without limitation) about (1) Newron's ability to develop and expand its business, successfully complete development of its current product candidates, the timing of commencement of various clinical trials and receipt of data and current and future collaborations for the development and commercialization of its product candidates, (2) the market for drugs to treat CNS diseases and pain conditions, (3) Newron's financial resources, and (4) assumptions underlying any such statements. In some cases, these statements and assumptions can be identified by the fact that they use words such as "will", "anticipate", "estimate", "expect", "project", "intend", "plan", "believe", "target", and other words and terms of similar meaning. All statements, other than historical facts, contained herein regarding Newron's strategy, goals, plans, future financial position, projected revenues and costs and prospects are forward-looking statements. By their very nature, such statements and assumptions involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that predictions, forecasts, projections and other outcomes described, assumed or implied therein will not be achieved. Future events and actual results could differ materially from those set out in, contemplated by or underlying the forward-looking statements due to a number of important factors. These factors include (without limitation) (1) uncertainties in the discovery, development or marketing of products, including without limitation difficulties in enrolling clinical trials, negative results of clinical trials or research projects or unexpected side effects, (2) delay or inability in obtaining regulatory approvals or bringing products to market, (3) future market acceptance of products, (4) loss of or inability to obtain adequate protection for intellectual property rights, (5) inability to raise additional funds, (6) success of existing and entry into future collaborations and licensing agreements, (7) litigation, (8) loss of key executive or other employees, (9) adverse publicity and news coverage, and (10) competition, regulatory, legislative and judicial developments or changes in market and/or overall economic conditions. Newron may not actually achieve the plans, intentions or expectations disclosed in forward-looking statements and assumptions underlying any such statements may prove wrong. Investors should therefore not place undue reliance on them. There can be no assurance that actual results of Newron's research programs, development activities, commercialization plans, collaborations and operations will not differ materially from the expectations set out in such forward-looking statements or underlying assumptions. Newron does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements except as may be required by applicable regulations of the SIX Swiss Exchange or the Dusseldorf Stock Exchange where the shares of Newron are listed. This document does not contain or constitute an offer or invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities of Newron and no part of it shall form the basis of or be relied upon in connection with any contract or commitment whatsoever. 1 Uliana DL, Walsh RA, Fabris D and Grace AA. Evenamide reverses schizophrenia-related dysfunction in a neurodevelopmental animal model, Neuropsychopharmacology (2025); 2 Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) is widely used in clinical trials of schizophrenia and is considered the "gold standard" for assessment of antipsychotic treatment efficacy (Innvo Clin Neurosci, 2017: View source version on Contacts For more information, please contact: Newron Stefan Weber – CEO; +39 02 6103 46 26, pr@ UK/Europe Simon Conway / Ciara Martin / Natalie Garland-Collins, FTI Consulting; +44 20 3727 1000, SCnewron@ Switzerland Valentin Handschin, IRF; +41 43 244 81 54, handschin@ Germany/Europe Anne Hennecke / Maximilian Schur, MC Services; +49 211 52925227, newron@ USA Paul Sagan, LaVoieHealthScience; +1 617 865 0041, psagan@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Medical News Today
07-07-2025
- Health
- Medical News Today
Abilify Maintena (aripiprazole) dosing schedule and details
The dosage of Abilify Maintena (aripiprazole) for schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder is typically 400 milligrams (mg) once per month. Your dosing schedule may vary based on factors that include your symptoms and other medications you may be taking. It is important to take the Abilify Maintena dosage your doctor Maintena is a prescription drug used in adults to treat schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder. The drug comes as a long-acting intramuscular injection administered by a healthcare active ingredient in Abilify Maintena is aripiprazole. Abilify Maintena belongs to a group of drugs called article describes the dosages of Abilify Maintena, as well as its strengths and how it is given.»Read this in-depth overview for more details about Abilify of Abilify Maintena dosage Abilify Maintena is a long-acting injection that contains the active drug aripiprazole. If you have not taken Abilify or aripiprazole before, your doctor will likely have you take an equivalent oral dose of the drug for 2 weeks before starting Abilify Maintena. This is to check how well your body tolerates aripiprazole before you receive the long-acting following information describes dosages commonly used or recommended for Abilify Maintena. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to fit your needs. In some cases, doctors may adjust your dosage from those mentioned reading for more dosage Maintena formsAbilify Maintena is available as a powder in single-use syringes and vials. A healthcare professional will mix the powder with sterile water for injection to make an extended-release suspension. They will administer this by intramuscular injection (an injection into a muscle). Extended-release means the medication is released slowly into your bloodstream over time. After you receive an injection of Abilify Maintena, the medication is released into your bloodstream slowly over 1 Maintena strengthsAbilify Maintena comes in two strengths: 300 mg and 400 of Abilify Maintena for schizophrenia and bipolar I disorderAbilify Maintena is approved to treat schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder in adults. The typical dosage for these conditions is one injection of 400 mg given once per doctor will typically switch you to Abilify Maintena from your current oral antipsychotic medication. (This may be an oral form of Abilify or aripiprazole or a different oral antipsychotic.) The recommended dosage of Abilify Maintena is the same regardless of what dose of oral antipsychotic you are currently your first injection of Abilify Maintena, it can take 2 weeks for the medication to reach an effective level in your body. To make sure your condition is well-managed during this time, you should continue taking your current oral antipsychotic for 2 weeks after your first injection of Abilify follow your prescribing doctor's instructions. Notify them if you experience any side effects that may prevent you from taking your affecting dosageIn some cases, your doctor may prescribe a different dosage of Abilify Maintena. For example, they may prescribe a lower dosage if you:have bothersome side effects with Abilify Maintenahave a genetic factor that affects how well your body can break down Abilify Maintenatake certain other medications that affect how well your body breaks down Abilify MaintenaYour doctor will prescribe the dosage that's right for Abilify Maintena is givenAbilify Maintena is administered by a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional. You will typically receive Abilify Maintena in a clinical setting, such as your doctor's office, clinic, or pharmacy. A healthcare professional will administer Abilify Maintena by intramuscular injection into the muscle in your upper arm or buttock. They'll usually give your injection in alternate arms or buttocks each time you receive a dose. This helps prevent injection site reactions that can occur if you have the injection in the same place each Maintena is usually a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that it's safe and effective for your condition, you'll likely take it long you miss an appointment to receive a dose of Abilify Maintena, call your doctor's office right away to questions about Abilify Maintena dosageBelow are answers to some commonly asked questions about Abilify Maintena's is considered a high dose of Abilify Maintena?The usual dose of Abilify Maintena is 400 mg given once per month. Higher doses than this are not doctor may prescribe a lower dose of Abilify Maintena in certain situations, for example, if you take certain other medications. For more information, see the 'Factors affecting dosage' many mL is a 400-mg injection of Abilify Maintena?To give a 400-mg dose of Abilify Maintena, your healthcare professional will inject 2 milliliters (mL) of the prepared you have other questions about the dose of Abilify Maintena you are prescribed, talk with your Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
Yahoo
07-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Schizophrenia Drugs Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report 2025-2030 - Innovative Therapies Lead the Schizophrenia Drugs Industry Amid Unmet Needs
Schizophrenia Drugs Market Dublin, July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Schizophrenia Drugs Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis by Drug Class (Second- Generation Antipsychotics, Third-Generation Antipsychotics), Route of Administration, Distribution Channel, and Region with Growth Forecasts, 2025-2030" report has been added to Schizophrenia Drugs Market was valued at USD 8.19 billion in 2024, and is projected to reach USD 11.20 billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 5.60%. The schizophrenia market is anticipated to be collectively driven by improved drug delivery technologies, availability of Long-Acting Injectables (LAIs) and increase in patients seeking treatment. The major features assisting uptake of novel drugs would be fast onset of action, accessibility to patients, efficiency and high patient compliance. Increasing awareness among patients and physicians in the field of mental health, particularly schizophrenia is likely to increase the penetration of these drugs in the market. Currently, second and third-generation antipsychotics capture significant market share. Pipeline drugs, undergoing clinical trials intend to block specific subtypes of serotonin and dopamine receptors which would help minimize the symptoms, modulate increased dopamine levels and further improve growth in schizophrenia market is anticipated to be primarily driven by the arrival of late-stage pipeline products, such as Intra-Cellular Therapies' ITI-007 and Alkermes' ALKS-3831 which are directed towards the treatment of negative symptoms; however, there are significant unmet needs in the schizophrenia treatment space. Poor understanding about the exact disease mechanism remains, preventing the discovery of a therapeutic breakthrough. Hence, there is a need for innovation in drug delivery technologies for the treatment of this debilitating Drugs Market Report Highlights The second-generation-antipsychotics held the largest market revenue share of 73.05% in 2024. The demand for second-generation antipsychotics in the schizophrenia drugs market is rising due to their improved safety and efficacy profiles compared to first-generation antipsychotics. The injectable antipsychotics treatment segment held the largest market revenue share in 2024. The demand for injectable antipsychotics is on the rise due to their ability to address several challenges associated with the condition. Injectable formulations, particularly long-acting injectables (LAIs), provide a steady release of medication, which helps maintain therapeutic drug levels and reduces the risk of relapse due to missed doses-a common issue with oral medications. The hospital pharmacies segment held the largest market revenue share in 2024. Hospital pharmacies are well-positioned to provide comprehensive care, including managing complex medication regimens and monitoring side effects, which are critical for this condition. North America schizophrenia drugs market held the largest market revenue share of 38.65% in 2024. It is attributable to the rising awareness and diagnosis rates of schizophrenia and related mental health disorders. This report addresses: Market intelligence to enable effective decision-making Market estimates and forecasts from 2018 to 2030 Growth opportunities and trend analyses Segment and regional revenue forecasts for market assessment Competition strategy and market share analysis Product innovation listings for you to stay ahead of the curve Why Should You Buy This Report? Comprehensive Market Analysis: Gain detailed insights into the market across major regions and segments. Competitive Landscape: Explore the market presence of key players. Future Trends: Discover the pivotal trends and drivers shaping the future of the market. Actionable Recommendations: Utilize insights to uncover new revenue streams and guide strategic business decisions. Key Attributes Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 100 Forecast Period 2024-2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $8.19 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $11.2 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 5.6% Regions Covered Global Key Topics CoveredChapter 1. Methodology and ScopeChapter 2. Executive Summary2.1. Market Outlook2.2. Segment Outlook2.2.1. Drug Class and Route of Administration Outlook2.2.2. Distribution Channel Outlook2.2.3. Regional Outlook2.3. Competitive InsightsChapter 3. Schizophrenia Drugs Market Variables, Trends & Scope3.1. Market Lineage Outlook3.1.1. Parent Market Outlook3.1.2. Related/Ancillary Market Outlook3.2. Market Dynamics3.2.1. Market Driver Analysis3.2.2. Market Restraint Analysis3.3. Schizophrenia Drugs Market Analysis Tools3.3.1. Industry Analysis - Porter's3.3.1.1. Supplier Power3.3.1.2. Buyer Power3.3.1.3. Substitution Threat3.3.1.4. Threat of New Entrant3.3.1.5. Competitive Rivalry3.3.2. PESTEL Analysis3.3.2.1. Political Landscape3.3.2.2. Technological Landscape3.3.2.3. Economic Landscape3.3.3. Pricing Analysis3.3.4. Pipeline Analysis3.3.4.1. Phase 13.3.4.2. Phase 23.3.4.3. Phase 3Chapter 4. Schizophrenia Drugs Market: Drug Class Estimates & Trend Analysis4.1. Global Schizophrenia Drugs Market: Drug Class Dashboard4.2. Global Schizophrenia Drugs Market: Drug Class Movement Analysis4.3. Global Schizophrenia Drugs Market by Class, Revenue4.4. Second-Generation Antipsychotics4.5. Third-Generation Antipsychotics Chapter 5. Schizophrenia Drugs Market: Route of Administration Estimates & Trend Analysis5.1. Global Schizophrenia Drugs Market: Route of Administration Dashboard5.2. Global Schizophrenia Drugs Market: Route of Administration Movement Analysis5.3. Global Schizophrenia Drugs Market by Route of Administration , Revenue5.4. Oral Antipsychotics5.5. Injectable Antipsychotics Chapter 6. Schizophrenia Drugs Market: Distribution Channel Estimates & Trend Analysis6.1. Global Schizophrenia Drugs Market: Distribution Channel Dashboard6.2. Global Schizophrenia Drugs Market: Distribution Channel Movement Analysis6.3. Global Schizophrenia Drugs Market by Distribution Channel, Revenue6.4. Hospital Pharmacies6.5. Retail Pharmacies6.6. Online Pharmacies6.7. Others Chapter 7. Schizophrenia Drugs Market: Regional Estimates & Trend Analysis by Drug Class, Distribution Channel, and Route of Administration7.1. Regional Dashboard7.2. Market Size, & Forecasts Trend Analysis, 2018 to 20307.3. North America7.4. Europe7.5. Asia-Pacific7.6. Latin America7.7. MEA Chapter 8. Competitive Landscape8.1. Recent Developments & Impact Analysis, by Key Market Participants8.2. Company/Competition Categorization8.3. Vendor Landscape8.3.1. List of Key Distributors and Channel Partners8.3.2. Key Customers8.3.3. Key Company Market Share Analysis, 20248.3.4. Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc.8.3.5. Bristol-Myers Squibb Company/ Otsuka Holdings Co., Ltd.8.3.6. Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd.8.3.7. Eli Lilly and Company8.3.8. Alkermes8.3.9. VANDA PHARMACEUTICALS8.3.10. AstraZeneca8.3.11. AbbVie Inc.8.3.12. Pfizer Inc.8.3.13. H. Lundbeck A/S For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Schizophrenia Drugs Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Sign in to access your portfolio
Associated Press
23-06-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
CCHR Demands Nursing Home Chemical Restraint Ban and Full Accountability
LOS ANGELES, Calif., June 23, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Federal health authorities are sounding the alarm over the chronic use of antipsychotic and psychotropic drugs in America's nursing homes. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) has prioritized enforcement actions to reduce psychotropic prescribing—especially among seniors with dementia. With over 15,000 facilities nationwide housing more than 1.2 million elderly residents, mental health watchdog Citizens Commission on Human Rights International (CCHR) warns the unchecked drugging of seniors constitutes systemic elder abuse.[1] CCHR is urging lawmakers to adopt the recommendations of a United Nations human rights expert, Claudia Mahler, who called for prohibiting chemical restraints—drugs used to control behavior—in aged-care settings. Mahler's report criticized the drugging of seniors in care facilities, asserting that older persons are 'more likely to be deprived of liberty in care facilities than in prisons.' She further warned that antipsychotic use in dementia can double the risk of death.[2] Although the National Partnership to Improve Dementia Care in Nursing Homes reported a reduction in antipsychotic use among long-stay residents—from 30.1% in 2011 to 14.5% by the end of 2021—those figures obscure concerning patterns of diagnosis manipulation. For instance, some nursing homes labeled seniors with schizophrenia, a diagnosis virtually unheard of in the elderly, to continue prescribing antipsychotics despite federal restrictions.[3] Federal Warnings Ignored, Harm Continues Warnings about the dangers of these drugs have spanned decades. In 2007, FDA safety official Dr. David Graham estimated at least 15,000 nursing home residents die each year due to antipsychotic use.[4] Dr. Peter Gøtzsche, a Danish physician and internationally recognized expert on pharmaceutical safety, places the toll from psychiatric drugs—including neuroleptics, benzodiazepines, and antidepressants—at approximately 209,000 deaths annually among Americans 65 and older. Sleep medications may contribute to an additional 320,000 to 507,000 deaths per year. Even short-term use has serious consequences. Studies show that for every 100 dementia patients prescribed newer antipsychotics over just ten weeks, one will die. Combining a benzodiazepine with a neuroleptic can increase mortality risk by as much as 65%.[5] Despite federal regulations dating back to 1987 that prohibit psychotropic use for staff convenience or discipline, enforcement has been lax. In 2005, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a black-box warning linking antipsychotics to death in dementia patients prompting some prescribers to sidestep restrictions by re-diagnosing patients.[6] Between 2015 and 2019, schizophrenia diagnoses among nursing home residents rose 194%—an implausible increase, attributed to efforts to preserve prescribing authority.[7] In 2021, a New York Times investigation revealed that 21% of residents were still being given antipsychotics, often based on unsupported or false diagnoses. In 2023, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services launched new measures to identify facilities inflating diagnostic codes to justify drug use—but the problem persists.[8] Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) pharmaceutical advertising has also fueled drug overuse among seniors. A 2021 study found that television ads heavily influenced seniors' prescription decisions, especially in areas with high Medicare enrollment. Between 2006 and 2017, $528 million was spent promoting one antipsychotic.[9] In June 2025, the End Prescription Drug Ads Now Act was introduced to ban DTCA. Psychotropic drug use in long-term care facilities is a human rights crisis. Studies show that roughly 16% of nursing home residents experience abuse, yet only 1 in 24 cases is reported. Disturbingly, up to 40% of staff admit to having psychologically abused residents.[10] Reforms Urgently Needed The ongoing harm inflicted on elderly residents is not an isolated lapse but a failure of oversight, ethics, and accountability, tantamount to elder abuse. CCHR urges U.S. legislators and regulators to implement such reforms as: 'What's happening in nursing homes today is not care—it's chemical control and a national disgrace,' said Jan Eastgate, President of CCHR International. 'Our seniors are not being treated—they're being sedated for convenience, often at the cost of their lives.' About CCHR: CCHR, established in 1969 by the Church of Scientology and professor of psychiatry Dr. Thomas Szasz, urges Congress and state legislatures to outlaw chemical restraints in aged care and demand accountability from prescribers and nursing homes. 'The nation's elderly deserve compassion and safety, not sedation, and dignity not death by prescription,' Eastgate said. To learn more, visit: Sources: [1] Poliakoff & Associates, P.A., 'Nursing Home Oversight and Antipsychotic Drug Use,' 12 June 2025, [2] ''Chemical Restraints' Deprive Older People of Liberty,' Human Rights Watch, 19 Sept. 2022, [3] 'Brown Study Challenges Common Perceptions of Antipsychotic Use in Nursing Homes,' Brown University School of Public Health, 5 Sept. 2024, [4] Testimony by Dr. David Graham, House Hearing, 110th Congress – The Adequacy of FDA to Assure the Safety of the Nation's Drug Supply General, 13 Feb. 2007, p. 66 [5] Peter C. Gøtzsche, 'Prescription Drugs Are the Leading Cause of Death,' Brownstone Institute, 16 Apr. 2024, [6] 'Phony Diagnoses Hide High Rates of Drugging at Nursing Homes,' The New York Times, 16 Sept. 2021, [7] 'Long-Term Trends of Psychotropic Drug Use in Nursing Homes,' Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General, 11 Nov. 2022, [8] 'Phony Diagnoses Hide High Rates of Drugging at Nursing Homes,' The New York Times, 16 Sept. 2021, [9] 'Physicians Treating Alzheimer's Disease Patients Should Be Aware that Televised Direct-to-Consumer Advertising Links More Strongly to Drug Utilization in Older Patients,' Jour. Alzheimers Dis. June 2021, [10] 'Elder Abuse Statistics,' 19 May 2025, MULTIMEDIA: Image link for media Image caption: 'Psychotropic drugs are being used to sedate, restrain, and silence, and, as such, are a tool of oppression. CCHR asserts that this practice meets the legal definition of elder abuse and must be treated as a criminal offense.' – Jan Eastgate, President CCHR International. NEWS SOURCE: Citizens Commission on Human Rights Keywords: General Editorial, CCHR, Nursing Homes, Dementia Care, Chemical Restraint, Citizens Commission on Human Rights International, LOS ANGELES, Calif. This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (Citizens Commission on Human Rights) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire. Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P127084 APNF0325A To view the original version, visit: © 2025 Send2Press® Newswire, a press release distribution service, Calif., USA. RIGHTS GRANTED FOR REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY ANY LEGITIMATE MEDIA OUTLET - SUCH AS NEWSPAPER, BROADCAST OR TRADE PERIODICAL. MAY NOT BE USED ON ANY NON-MEDIA WEBSITE PROMOTING PR OR MARKETING SERVICES OR CONTENT DEVELOPMENT. Disclaimer: This press release content was not created by nor issued by the Associated Press (AP). Content below is unrelated to this news story.
Medscape
13-06-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Antipsychotic Adherence Linked With Lower Car Crash Risk
In drivers with schizophrenia, better adherence to antipsychotic medication is associated with a lower risk for motor vehicle crashes, according to new research. In a case-crossover study, perfect adherence to antipsychotic medication in drivers with schizophrenia was associated with a 50% reduction in the odds of a crash, relative to complete nonadherence. Physicians and fitness-to-drive policy makers might consider antipsychotic treatment adherence as a condition for maintaining an active driver's license in these patients, the authors suggest. The study was published June 9 in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. Driving Safety Data 'Whether a person is safe to drive is a question that comes up for psychiatrists and physicians like me who look after people when they are in the hospital with a worsening of their schizophrenia,' study author John A. Staples, MD, MPH, clinical associate professor of medicine at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, told Medscape Medical News . John A. Staples, MD, MPH 'This is particularly important for people who have schizophrenia, because we know schizophrenia impairs their judgment. Often, these individuals have had problems with driving in the past,' Staples said. The investigators examined population-based administrative health and driving data from British Columbia. They included patients with schizophrenia who were involved as drivers in police-attended motor vehicle crashes from 2001 to 2016. Eligible participants filled prescriptions for antipsychotic medication as outpatients in the 2 years before the crash. 'We have data on all their health issues specific to hospital visits with physicians and medication data, and we also have data on their driving, including crashes and traffic accidents. It's unique that we have both data sets,' Staples noted. The investigators assessed adherence by looking at how often in the 30 days before their crash these drivers filled prescriptions for their antipsychotic medication. They also examined how often patients filled the prescriptions in a 30-day period 1 year before the crash. The final sample consisted of 1130 crashes involving 1001 drivers. At the time of the crash, the median age of the drivers was 37 years. Two-thirds of participants were male, 58.1% resided in an urban area, and 84.5% had a driver's license. More than half (54.8%) also had one or more traffic violations in the past 3 years. About half (49.8%) of all crashes resulted in an injury, and 0.7% resulted in a fatality. Attending police reported that the driver's condition was a contributing factor in 43.5% of the crashes. 'We hope these findings encourage people with schizophrenia to take their antipsychotics,' Staples said. The results should also highlight the need for physicians faced with patients who may not be adherent to think about driving safety. 'We don't want there to be a crash where somebody gets hurt, but on the other hand, suspending or canceling somebody's license is a grave blow to independence and the ability to work. That's the difficult tradeoff physicians are often left struggling with. We want to make sure we are making decisions that are justified when we take away the freedom of being able to drive,' Staples said. Valuable Research Mark Rapoport, MD, professor of psychiatry at the University of Toronto, told Medscape Medical News that physicians treating patients with schizophrenia should stress the importance of adherence and driving safety. 'This is a very good study that shows the positive outcome of staying on medication. But there is variability among individuals, so it is hard to make a sweeping declaration that everyone must be adherent or they can't drive. To me as a clinician, it comes down to the judgment and insight of the patient. Do they have the wherewithal to realize that they should wait until they take their medication before they get behind the wheel? That they need to take another form of transportation? Some people don't have the ability to do that,' Rapoport said. 'A study like this can't answer those nuanced questions, but it is a good study that shows the very positive outcome of staying on medication,' he said. Simon B. Sherry, PhD 'Given the elevated crash risk among those with schizophrenia, this research is valuable in that it provides evidence of the efficacy of antipsychotics in improving a person's safety and well-being as it applies to driving,' Simon B. Sherry, PhD, professor of psychology and neuroscience at Dalhousie University in Halifax, told Medscape Medical News. 'The ability to drive can provide freedom and independence and improve quality of life. Unfortunately, many of the symptoms of schizophrenia, such as disorganized thinking; reduced motivation; trouble with attention, memory, and decision-making; and difficulty with daily activities, can make regularly taking medication more challenging,' Sherry said. 'As a psychologist, I do not prescribe medication, but I can vouch for the efficacy of nonpharmaceutical treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy for managing symptoms. It would be interesting to see future research comparing whether this therapy is also associated with lower crash risk and whether such treatment is equally effective in reducing crash risk as antipsychotic medications,' he said.
