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The effect of clozapine on self-injurious behavior
R G Hammock1, S R Schroeder, W R Levine
1University of Kansas, USA.
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Clozapine, a D1 dopamine receptor antagonist, shows promise for treating self-injurious behavior (SIB) where traditional drugs fail. This study suggests clozapine may be an effective pharmacological intervention for some SIB cases.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Traditional neuroleptics targeting D2 dopamine receptors show limited efficacy in treating self-injurious behavior (SIB).
- Emerging research suggests the D1 dopamine receptor may play a significant role in mediating SIB.
Observation:
- A client with chronic SIB participated in a 93-week double-blind crossover trial using clozapine.
- Clozapine is a neuroleptic known for its affinity for blocking D1 receptors and its efficacy in treating refractory schizophrenia.
Findings:
- The participant's chronic SIB was successfully treated with clozapine.
- This outcome supports the D1 hypothesis of self-injurious behavior.
Implications:
- Clozapine represents a potential pharmacological intervention for specific cases of self-injurious behavior.
- Further research is warranted to explore the efficacy of D1 receptor antagonists in managing SIB.