Open clinical study of cis(Z)-clopenthixol

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Neuroscience

Background:

• Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder characterized by acute exacerbations.
• Antipsychotic medications are crucial for managing schizophrenia symptoms.
• Cis(Z)-clopenthixol is an antipsychotic agent whose efficacy and tolerability require clinical evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the antipsychotic efficacy and tolerance of cis(Z)-clopenthixol.
• To evaluate the drug's impact on symptom severity in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic schizophrenia.

Main Methods:

• A 28-day open-label study involving 13 patients with acute exacerbation of chronic schizophrenia.
• Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scale was used to assess overall improvement.
• Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) and the Negative and Positive Symptoms Scale (NOSIE-30) were employed for symptom assessment.
• Individualized dosages of cis(Z)-clopenthixol were administered, ranging from 30 to 350 mg by day 28.

Main Results:

• Seven out of 13 patients showed improvement based on CGI.
• Significant reductions in total BPRS scores were observed throughout the treatment period.
• A significant reduction in NOSIE-30 scores was noted specifically at day 28.
• The frequency of reported side effects decreased progressively over the 28 days.

Conclusions:

• Cis(Z)-clopenthixol exhibits antipsychotic effects and is generally well-tolerated in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic schizophrenia.
• The medication led to significant symptom reduction as measured by BPRS and NOSIE-30, with decreasing side effects over time.
• Further research may be warranted to explore optimal dosing and long-term outcomes.