Nanotechnology Approaches for Enhanced CNS Drug Delivery in the Management of Schizophrenia

Abstract

Schizophrenia is a neuropsychiatric disorder mainly affecting the central nervous system, presented with auditory and visual hallucinations, delusion and withdrawal from society. Abnormal dopamine levels mainly characterise the disease; various theories of neurotransmitters explain the pathophysiology of the disease. The current therapeutic approach deals with the systemic administration of drugs other than the enteral route, altering the neurotransmitter levels within the brain and providing symptomatic relief. Fluid biomarkers help in the early detection of the disease, which would improve the therapeutic efficacy. However, the major challenge faced in CNS drug delivery is the blood-brain barrier. Nanotherapeutic approaches may overcome these limitations, which will improve safety, efficacy, and targeted drug delivery. This review article addresses the main challenges faced in CNS drug delivery and the significance of current therapeutic strategies and nanotherapeutic approaches for a better understanding and enhanced drug delivery to the brain, which improve the quality of life of schizophrenia patients.

Association between voriconazole-induced visual hallucination and dopamine in an analysis of the food and drug administration (FDA) adverse event reporting system database

“…Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder characterized by visual hallucinations. The development and aggravation of schizophrenia are caused by increased dopamine levels in the brain 4 . Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the brain 5 .…”