Classical Neurotransmitters and Neuropeptides Involved in Schizophrenia: How to Improve the Therapeutic Effect of the Antipsychotic Drugs

Abstract

Abstract:We describe the alterations of classical neurotransmitters and neuropeptides in schizophrenia. In this disease, susceptibility genes encode GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) and glutamate hypofunction and dopamine hyperactivity. A neural network is developed in the mesolimbic system, the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex. According to this neural network, dopamine and serotonin hyperactivity might be due to a reduced presynaptic inhibition through GABAergic and glutaminergic neurons. A survey of the therapeutic and adverse effects of commonly prescribed and of recently developed second-generation antipsychotic drugs is given. The interaction with other specific subreceptors of classical neurotransmitters and neuropeptides is suggested to improve the antipsychotic effect. In the treatment of schizophrenia, pharmacotherapy should be combined with psychoeducation. Accordingly, a recurrence of psychotic symptoms could be prevented in a long-term treatment.