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Deterioration of COVID-19 vaccine efficacy by antipsychotic medications in schizophrenia patients

  • 0Junwakai Yahagigawa Hospital, Anjo, Aichi, Japan.
Microbiology Spectrum +

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March 31, 2025

|

March 31, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Antipsychotic medication, particularly risperidone, may reduce COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness in schizophrenia patients. Aripiprazole showed a protective effect, while risperidone increased incidence, highlighting drug-specific impacts on vaccine efficacy.

Area Of Science

  • Immunology
  • Pharmacology
  • Psychiatry

Background

  • Antipsychotic medications can impact vaccine efficacy.
  • Schizophrenia patients show higher COVID-19 incidence post-vaccination compared to controls.
  • Initial observations suggested reduced vaccine protection in schizophrenia inpatients.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To examine the effect of antipsychotic medication on COVID-19 incidence in schizophrenia patients.
  • To compare COVID-19 incidence and vaccine side effects between schizophrenia patients and control hospital staff.
  • To investigate potential drug-specific influences on vaccine effectiveness.

Main Methods

  • A cohort study involving 98 schizophrenia inpatients and 78 control hospital staff.
  • All participants received COVID-19 vaccination between July and September 2021.
  • Comparison of COVID-19 incidence and vaccine-related side effects between the groups.

Main Results

  • Schizophrenia patients had significantly higher COVID-19 incidence (40.8%) versus controls (12.8%).
  • Risperidone monotherapy was linked to increased COVID-19 incidence (65.6%).
  • Aripiprazole use was associated with a significant reduction in incidence (0%).

Conclusions

  • Risperidone may impair immune responses and reduce COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness.
  • Aripiprazole use may offer a protective effect against COVID-19 post-vaccination.
  • Further research is needed to clarify drug-specific anti-vaccine effects and immunological mechanisms.

Keywords:

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