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NEI Podcast

E242- (CME) Past, Present, and Future: Muscarinic-Targeting Treatments for Schizophrenia

Nov 27, 2024
Dr. Jonathan M. Meyer, a Voluntary Clinical Professor at UC San Diego and psychopharmacology expert, discusses the evolution of muscarinic-targeting treatments for schizophrenia. He highlights the historical shifts from dopamine-centric therapies to the promising role of muscarinic receptors. Key topics include the challenges and innovations in cognitive impairment management, new drugs like xanomeline-trospium, and the impact of neurotransmitter interactions. Meyer emphasizes tailored treatment approaches and the importance of individualized dosing strategies for enhancing patient outcomes.
01:00:35

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The podcast traces the evolution of muscarinic receptor science in schizophrenia, highlighting its historical neglect in favor of dopamine mechanisms since the 1950s.
  • The introduction of xanomeline-trospium demonstrates how novel muscarinic-targeting drugs can effectively address cognitive deficits and positive symptoms in schizophrenia while improving tolerability.

Deep dives

Historical Context and Revival of Muscarinic Agonists

The podcast discusses the historical context of muscarinic agonists in treating schizophrenia, tracing the idea back to the 1950s. Research by Pfeiffer using ericoline showed potential benefits for schizophrenia, but the focus shifted to dopamine mechanisms following the discovery of phenothiazine drugs. This led to a long-standing reliance on dopamine receptor blockers for treatment, overshadowing the muscarinic pathway. The revival of interest began in the 1990s when researchers rediscovered the relevance of muscarinic receptors in schizophrenia treatment.

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