Abstract
The concept of 'balanced serotonergic/dopaminergic antagonists' reflects renewed interest in the role of serotonin (5-HT) in schizophrenia. Postmortem brain tissue analysis, cerebrospinal fluid studies, and pharmacological challenges suggest a deficit in 5-HT function in the cortex of patients with schizophrenia. In contrast, however, 5-HT2 antagonism is claimed to have beneficial effects on both positive and negative symptoms of the illness. The authors attempt to resolve this paradox with a model that takes into account the suggestion of a cortical serotonergic hypofunction and a beneficial effect of 5-HT2 antagonism via modulation of subcortical dopamine activity. Although involvement of 5-HT in schizophrenia is supported by compelling evidence, move research is needed to better define its role in pathophysiology and treatment of this illness.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1-17 |
Number of pages | 17 |
Journal | Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences |
Volume | 9 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1997 |