RITANSERIN, A SELECTIVE 5-HT(2 1C) ANTAGONIST, AND NEGATIVE SYMPTOMS IN SCHIZOPHRENIA - A PLACEBO-CONTROLLED DOUBLE-BLIND TRIAL/

The effectiveness of ritanserin, a selective 5-HT2 and 5-HT1c antagoni st, in reducing negative symptoms in schizophrenia was investigated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Trial treatment was added t o a stable neuroleptic treatment in 33 schizophrenic patients with pre dominantly negative symptoms. Ritanserin reduced the negative symptoms , as measured with the SANS. The main reduction was for the items faci al expression, global affective flattening, and relationships with fri ends and peers. Also a reduction in total BPRS score was found, which approached statistical significance. Significant reductions were obser ved for the BPRS items emotional withdrawal and depressive mood. Ritan serin or other drugs blocking 5-HT2 and/or 5-HT1c receptors could be i mportant in reducing specific symptoms in schizophrenic patients.