5-HT_2c agonist, lorcaserin, reduces aggressive responding in intermittent explosive disorder: A pilot study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychopharmacology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Impulsive aggressive behavior is linked to decreased central serotonin (5-HT) function.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are not always effective for impulsive aggression.
• Direct serotonin agonists may offer an alternative treatment approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of lorcaserin, a selective 5-HT2c agonist, in reducing aggression.
• To test if lorcaserin can attenuate aggressive responding in individuals with impulsive aggression.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study involving 10 adults.
• Participants received lorcaserin (20 mg) or placebo on separate days.
• Aggression was measured using the Taylor aggression paradigm.

Main Results:

• Lorcaserin significantly reduced provoked aggression compared to placebo.
• The drug decreased the frequency of administering high and extreme shock levels.
• No significant effect was observed on unprovoked aggression.

Conclusions:

• Lorcaserin demonstrates potential anti-aggressive properties in humans.
• These findings support further clinical trials for impulsive aggressive behavior treatment.
• Lorcaserin may be a viable option for individuals unresponsive to SSRIs.