Modulation of dopamine levels in key brain areas affected in schizophrenia has historically been achieved by using dopamine D2 receptor antagonists. Although such D2 receptor blockade may ameliorate positive symptoms of schizophrenia, it often comes at the cost of high motor side effect risk and lack of efficacy for treating the non-positive symptoms of schizophrenia. In this presentation, the speaker will bring to light the intricate neurocircuitry affecting dopaminergic neurotransmission as it relates to schizophrenia. With this understanding, potential utilization of novel agents to modulate dopamine levels without directly affecting dopamine D2 receptors will be discussed and evaluated.
Course Requirements
To receive ACPE credit for this session, you must:
- Register for this course.
- Review the full content of the activity and reflect upon its teachings.
- Complete the evaluation at the end of the activity.
- Provide the necessary details in your profile to ensure correct reporting by AAPP to CPE Monitor.
Faculty Information
View biographical information
Andrew J. Cutler, MD
Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Norton College of Medicine, State University of New York Upstate Medical University; Syracuse, NY
Chief Medical Officer, Neuroscience Education Institute; Carlsbad, CA
Learning Objectives
- Consider the impact of negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia on patient quality of life when formulating an optimal treatment strategy
- Reflect on the neurobiology and neurocircuitry underlying positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms and how novel treatments with targets outside of the dopamine D2 system may affect these symptoms
- Incorporate treatments that potentially improve negative and cognitive symptoms in order to optimize outcomes and quality of life for patients with schizophrenia
Continuing Education Credit and Disclosures
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