T. Jungerman et al., Deprenyl augmentation for treating negative symptoms of schizophrenia: A double-blind, controlled study, J CL PSYCH, 19(6), 1999, pp. 522-525
Augmentation of dopaminergic neurotransmission has been suggested as a trea
tment strategy for negative symptoms of schizophrenia. On the basis of open
studies that reported the potential benefit of deprenyl (selegiline) as au
gmentation to antipsychotic treatment, this double-blind, controlled study
was designed to further address this question. Sixteen schizophrenic patien
ts with predominately negative symptoms, manifesting clinical stability on
maintenance antipsychotic treatment, were randomly assigned to receive eith
er deprenyl 15 mg/day or placebo in addition to their antipsychotic treatme
nt for 8 weeks. Clinical follow-up and ratings were done during this period
and for 8 more weeks after deprenyl discontinuation. Both groups showed a
statistically significant but clinically marginal improvement over the 8 we
eks of deprenyl or placebo treatment. This improvement was abolished during
the postdiscontinuation follow-up period. Deprenyl at a dose of 15 mg/day
did not offer therapeutic benefit in our patients. A significant placebo ef
fect was observed, which may be the result of increased patient-doctor cont
act during the study.