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Pimavanserin tartrate: A 5-HT2A inverse agonist with potential for treating various neuropsychiatric disorders

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background: Pimavanserin tartrate is the first 5-HT2A inverse agonist to enter clinical trials as a treatment for L-dopa-induced psychosis in Parkinson's disease and for augmentation of low-dose risperidone treatment in schizophrenia. Pimavanserin is also being evaluated as a possible anti-insomnia drug. Objective: To discuss the potential of pimavanserin to fill multiple therapeutic needs. Methods: The problems with currently approved antipsychotics and sleep agents are explored to highlight how pimavanserin might address some longstanding issues in the treatment of psychosis and insomnia. Results/conclusions: In Phase II clinical trials, pimavanserin seemed to be safe, well-tolerated and efficacious in treating L-dopa-induced psychosis without worsening motor symptoms. Pimavanserin also potentiated the therapeutic effects of low-dose risperidone, reduced haloperidol-induced akathisia, and increased slow-wave sleep in older individuals.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)3251-3259
Number of pages9
JournalExpert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy
Volume9
Issue number18
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2008
Externally publishedYes

Funding

FundersFunder number
National Institutes of Health National Institute of Mental HealthU19MH082441

    Keywords

    • 5-HT
    • Parkinson's Disease
    • antipsychotic
    • inverse agonist
    • pimavanserin
    • psychosis
    • schizophrenia

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Pharmacology
    • Pharmacology (medical)

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