PMID: 29755923May 15, 2018Paper

Epigenetic Alterations Impact on Antipsychotic Treatment in Elderly Patients

Current Treatment Options in Psychiatry
Bryan M McClartyHongxin Dong

Abstract

Antipsychotics are commonly prescribed for the treatment of psychosis as well as behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) in elderly patients. However, elderly patients often experience decreased antipsychotic efficacy and increased side effects, though the mechanisms underlying these changes with age are not clear. Although aging can affect drug metabolism and clearance through changes in renal and hepatic function, additional pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic changes due to aging-induced epigenetic alterations also impact processes important for antipsychotic function. Epigenetic mechanisms account for some of the altered efficacy and increased side effects seen in elderly patients. Both clinical and animal studies from our group and others have demonstrated a plausible epigenetic mechanism involving histone modifications that can adversely affect the efficacy of antipsychotics and increase their side effects in elderly patients. Hopefully, further investigation of this mechanism will benefit elderly patients who need treatment for psychosis and BPSD.

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Age-related Dementia

Dementias are a group of conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, characterized by deficiencies in cognitive abilities. Age-related dementia refers to dementias that occur in older individuals, usually 60+ years old, in contrast to early-onset dementia. Follow the latest research on age-related dementia here.

Aging Genetics (Keystone)

This feed focuses on aging epidemiology and genetic, epigenetic, and proteomic aspects underlying aging, as well as aging- associated biomarkers. Here the latest research in this domain.

Genetics & Epigenetics of Aging

Dozens of genes are implicated in lifespan, and epigenetic changes during aging affect cell function. This feed focuses on the genetics and epigenetics of aging.

Antipsychotic Drugs

Antipsychotic drugs are a class of medication primarily used to manage psychosis (including delusions, hallucinations, paranoia or disordered thought), principally in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Discover the latest research on antipsychotic drugs here

Cell Aging (Keystone)

This feed focuses on cellular aging with emphasis on the mitochondria, autophagy, and metabolic processes associated with aging and longevity. Here is the latest research on cell aging.

Aging Epidemiology

This feed focuses on epidemiology of aging and aging-related conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and age-associated cognitive impairment. Here is the latest research.

Related Papers

International Psychogeriatrics
Laia Calvó-PerxasRegistry of Dementias of Girona Study
The Consultant Pharmacist : the Journal of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists
Lori A DaielloJohn S Kennedy
© 2022 Meta ULC. All rights reserved